Turkey Chili Black Beans (Printable Version)
A comforting, high-protein blend of lean ground turkey, black beans, and aromatic spices for a satisfying meal.
# What You'll Need:
→ Meats
01 - 1 pound lean ground turkey
→ Vegetables
02 - 1 medium onion, diced
03 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
06 - 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
07 - 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
→ Beans
08 - 2 (15 ounce) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
→ Liquids
09 - 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
→ Spices & Seasonings
10 - 2 tablespoons chili powder
11 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
12 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
13 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
14 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
15 - 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
→ Optional Toppings
16 - Chopped cilantro
17 - Sliced green onions
18 - Shredded cheddar cheese
19 - Sour cream
20 - Lime wedges
# How To Make It:
01 - In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it's browned and cooked through, approximately 5–7 minutes.
02 - Add the diced onion, red bell pepper, minced garlic, and chopped jalapeño (if using) to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 4–5 minutes.
03 - Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, black pepper, and salt. Cook for 1 minute until the spices become fragrant.
04 - Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, black beans, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
05 - Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
06 - Taste the chili and adjust seasonings as desired. Serve hot, garnished with your preferred toppings.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- It freezes beautifully so you can always have a homemade meal ready.
- The rich flavor comes from spices rather than long cooking hours.
02 -
- Chili always tastes better after it rests in the fridge for a day.
- Do not rush the simmer step or the texture will be too thin.
03 -
- Use a potato masher to slightly mash the beans for a thicker texture.
- Splash in a bit of vinegar at the end to brighten the flavors.