Turkey Chili Kidney Beans Corn (Printable version)
Hearty chili with lean turkey, kidney beans, corn, and bold spices for a comforting meal.
# What you need:
→ Proteins
01 - 1 lb lean ground turkey
→ Vegetables
02 - 1 large onion, diced
03 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
06 - 1 (15 oz) can corn kernels, drained
07 - 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes with juices
→ Liquids
08 - 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
→ Spices & Seasonings
09 - 2 tbsp chili powder
10 - 1 tsp ground cumin
11 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
12 - 1/2 tsp dried oregano
13 - 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to taste)
14 - 1 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
15 - 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
→ Oils
16 - 2 tbsp olive oil
# How to make it:
01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper; sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
02 - Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
03 - Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 6–8 minutes).
04 - Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat the meat and vegetables with the spices.
05 - Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices), kidney beans, corn, and chicken broth. Mix well to combine.
06 - Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
07 - Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with optional toppings like chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream (if not dairy-free).
# Expert tips:
01 -
- Ground turkey keeps it lighter than beef but still delivers incredible depth
- The combination of kidney beans and sweet corn creates the perfect texture contrast
02 -
- The flavor deepens overnight so consider making it a day ahead
- Simmering with the lid slightly ajar helps achieve the perfect thickness
03 -
- Rinse your kidney beans thoroughly to reduce any metallic taste
- Use a wooden spoon to break up the ground turkey into the smallest crumbles possible