Before you start cooking, gather these simple, wholesome ingredients. Trust me, a well-stocked kitchen makes all the difference.
For the Chili:
1 pound ground turkey (lean or extra lean)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 bell peppers (any color), diced
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
2 stalks celery, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 medium zucchini, diced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
Fresh cilantro
Diced avocado
Shredded cheese
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Sliced jalapeños
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Cooking this chili is a breeze, even for beginners. Follow these steps for a foolproof bowl of goodness.
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Chopping vegetables ahead of time makes the cooking process seamless. Dice the onions, peppers, carrots, celery, and zucchini into bite-sized pieces. Drain and rinse the beans to reduce sodium content.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Toss in the garlic, carrots, celery, and bell peppers, cooking for another 5 minutes. The aroma? Heavenly.
Step 3: Brown the Turkey
Push the veggies to the side of the pot and add the ground turkey. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until it’s no longer pink. Season with salt and pepper for a flavor boost.
Step 4: Add the Spices
Here’s where the magic happens. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Let the spices toast for a minute to enhance their flavors.
Step 5: Build the Chili Base
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine. Add the zucchini, beans, and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Step 6: Simmer to Perfection
Cover the pot and let the chili simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Conclusion: Your New Go-To Comfort Food
There you have it—a veggie-packed turkey chili that’s hearty, healthy, and downright delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal-prepping for yourself, this recipe is bound to become a favorite. The blend of spices, tender turkey, and nutrient-packed veggies creates a symphony of flavors in every bite.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apron, fire up the stove, and let this turkey chili become your new weeknight staple. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
