Lighter Turkey Chili

This BEST Lighter Turkey Chili is hearty, protein-packed and loaded with lean ground turkey, tender beans and veggies. Full of bold flavor with just the right amount of spice, it is an straightforward cozy dinner you can make on the stovetop, in the slow cooker or Instant Pot!

This Lighter Turkey Chili has been one of the most popular recipes on the site for over 10 years, and it is still a staple in our house every fall and winter! It is thick, hearty and loaded with lean ground turkey, tender beans and plenty of veggies, all simmered together with bold spices for the ultimate cozy bowl of chili.

A cook especially keep this recipe for busy weeknights and meal prep because it makes a big batch and the leftovers taste even better the next day. It is also reliable for game day or a cozy weekend dinner. Serve it with the honey cornbread muffins for the ultimate comfort-food meal!

What goes in

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 lbs lean ground turkey
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 2 jalapeños, diced
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounces) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounces) can petite diced tomatoes
• 1 cup low sodium beef broth
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 1/2 teaspoon maple syrup (optional)
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 (15 ounces) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Pinch of cayenne pepper

How it comes together

1. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over a lively burner and cook the ground turkey, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess liquid and transfer the turkey to a plate lined with a paper towel.
2. Add the remaining olive oil to the same pot along with the onion, bell peppers and jalapeños. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until the pieces give. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
3. Add the cooked turkey back to the pot along with the tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, kidney beans, honey, hot sauce and seasonings. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover and simmer for about 30 minutes or up to an hour, stirring occasionally.
4. Ladle the chili into bowls and pile on your favorite toppings!