Healthy One-Pot Turkey Chili Recipe

I started making this chili a few years ago when I wanted something warm and comforting that didn’t feel super heavy. It’s become one of those recipes that’s always in rotation — the kind you make once, then never need to look up again 🍂

I love that it’s a full meal in one pot, packed with protein and veggies, and completely foolproof. It’s cozy, satisfying, and even better the next day (my favorite kind of meal). I often cook it for dinner and then eat it as lunch throughout my work week!

Ingredients

1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

1 red onion, finely chopped

1½ lb ground turkey

1 packet taco seasoning

salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp tomato paste

1 (28 oz) can chopped tomatoes (fire-roasted or regular — both work!)

1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained

1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained

1½ cups chicken or beef broth

Shredded cheese, for garnish (I use a goat’s milk cheddar)

Thinly sliced green onions, for garnish

Sour cream or yogurt, for serving

Optional: roasted butternut squash or sweet potato (not necessary, but great if you already have it prepped!)

Instructions

1. Sauté the onion:
   Heat olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes.

2. Brown the turkey:
   Add ground turkey and cook until it begins to brown (it doesn’t need to be fully cooked yet). Season lightly with salt and pepper.

3. Add garlic and tomato paste:
   Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste. Cook for about 2 minutes, until fragrant and well combined.

4. Build the flavor:
   Add the taco seasoning and stir to coat. Pour in the chopped tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, and broth. Mix well.

5. Simmer:
   Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until thickened, about 30 minutes. If you’re short on time, you can thicken it faster by stirring in a slurry of arrowroot powder or cornstarch mixed with water.

6. Serve:
   Spoon into bowls and top with shredded cheese, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream or yogurt.