Quick & Easy Homemade Turkey Chili Recipe: Ready in 30 Minutes

Craving comfort food? This quick & easy homemade turkey chili recipe is ready in 30 minutes, perfect for a busy weeknight!

With cooler temps in the air, and you know what that means? It’s chili season, baby! But let’s be honest, who has time for those long-simmering pots on a busy weeknight? That’s where this quick and easy homemade turkey chili comes in. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, ready in just 30 minutes, and perfect for those hectic evenings when you need something comforting and nutritious on the table fast.

The beauty of this recipe? It’s not just speedy; it’s also incredibly versatile. I love to make a big batch and let everyone customize their bowls with their favorite toppings. It’s a win-win: a healthy, satisfying meal that the whole family enjoys, with minimal effort on your part. Plus, turkey chili is a fantastic way to sneak in some extra lean protein and veggies, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

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How to Make the Easiest Homemade Turkey Chili Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles, undrained
• 1 cup frozen sweet corn
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to jazz it up with some additional veggies! Sometimes I sauté some diced onions and jalapeños before browning the turkey for an extra kick. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping the black beans for kidney beans or even white beans for a white chili twist.

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
3. Season the turkey with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder.
4. Stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and green chiles.
5. Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Let the chili simmer for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings!

Spice it Up or Tone it Down

This recipe is a great base for customization! Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Meat Lover’s: Swap out the turkey for lean ground beef, pork, lamb, chicken or whatever you fancy.
• Spice Lover’s Delight: Sauté a diced jalapeño or serrano pepper with the onions (if using) before adding the turkey. You can also increase the chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
• Mild & Family-Friendly: Omit the chili powder altogether or use a milder variety. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to each serving to cool things down.
• Bean Bonanza: Experiment with different types of beans! Kidney beans are a classic chili addition, or try white beans like navy or cannellini for a white chili variation.
• Veggie Power: Boost the nutritional value by adding more vegetables. Chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even diced sweet potatoes would all be delicious additions.

Serving Suggestions for This Homemade Turkey Chili Recipe

This recipe makes enough for a family of 4-5. If you want leftovers for meal prep or to freeze, simply double the recipe. We love to use leftover turkey chili for loaded nachos, tacos, stuffed peppers, or even chili pizza!

As for toppings, the sky’s the limit. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Shredded Cheese like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican cheese blends
• Sour cream
• Sliced Avocado
• Guacamole
• Pico de Gallo
• Salsas
• Scallions
• Onions
• Jalapeño peppers
• Cilantro
• Tortilla Chips
• Hot Sauce
• Lime Wedges

Leftovers? No Problem! Get Creative with Your Homemade Turkey Chili Recipe

This turkey chili is so good, you’ll be happy to have leftovers! Here are a few delicious ways to repurpose them:

• Stuffed Mexican Peppers: Fill halved bell peppers with chili, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly for a hearty and satisfying meal. Get my recipe for stuffed Mexican peppers here.
• Mexican Flatbread Pizza: Spread chili on flatbread, sprinkle with cheese and your favorite toppings, and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. It’s a fun and flavorful twist on pizza night!
• Chili Cheese Fries: Top crispy fries with hot chili, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a decadent treat.
• Chili Mac and Cheese: Stir leftover chili into your favorite mac and cheese recipe for a creamy, cheesy, and protein-packed dish.
• Chili Dogs: Pile chili on top of grilled hot dogs and add your favorite toppings like mustard, onions, and relish for a game-day classic.
• Chili Omelets or Frittatas: Add a scoop of chili to your morning omelet or frittata for a savory and protein-rich breakfast.

With so many delicious possibilities, you’ll never get bored of leftover turkey chili!

Storing, Freezing, and Thawing

• Refrigerator: Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: To freeze, let the chili cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some headspace for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thawing: Thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Final Thoughts on Making This Easy Homemade Chili Recipe

This quick and easy homemade turkey chili is a weeknight lifesaver. It’s packed with flavor, customizable to your liking, and ready in a flash. Plus, it’s a healthy and budget-friendly option that the whole family will enjoy. So next time you’re short on time but craving a comforting meal, give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!

Remember: Cooking is a journey, not a destination. Feel free to adjust the spices, add your favorite vegetables, or experiment with different toppings. Make this recipe your own and enjoy the amazing results!

Do you have a favorite chili recipe you love? Do you prefer beef to turkey or vice versa? I would love to know more in the comments below.

Want to make a slow cooker version of turkey chili? Check out this recipe from Delish.

Thank you so much for following along.

Enjoy a beautiful day! xo