There’s nothing cozier on a chilly evening than a big bowl of hearty turkey chili simmering on the stove. This recipe takes all the classic comfort of traditional chili and lightens it up with lean shredded turkey, a rich blend of spices, and plenty of beans and veggies for texture and flavor.

If you’re looking for more great turkey recipes, The Best Turkey Noodle Soup and Homemade Turkey Bone Broth will keep your taste buds happy.

This amazing turkey chili is the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and makes everyone eager to gather around the table. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or feeding a hungry crowd, this turkey chili is simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to warm you up from the inside out.

One of the best things about this turkey chili recipe is its balance of hearty and wholesome flavors.

Using shredded turkey gives the dish plenty of protein without being overly heavy, while the beans, peppers, and tomatoes pack in color, texture, and nourishment. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like comfort food but still keeps things light enough for a weeknight dinner.

Another reason this chili shines is its versatility. You can make it ahead of time for busy days, freeze extra portions for later, or pile it high with your favorite toppings like cheddar cheese, sour cream, or even crunchy tortilla chips.

Each bowl can be customized for everyone at the table, making it a crowd-pleasing dish that never feels boring. Whether served on game day, at a fall gathering, or simply as a cozy meal at home, this turkey chili is the kind of recipe you’ll return to again and again.

The very first time I made this turkey chili, I knew it was a keeper. It quickly became my favorite way to give leftover turkey new life, and it will become yours, too.

Not only is this chili hearty and flavorful, but it’s also one of the healthiest chili recipes you’ll ever try. If you don’t have turkey on hand, shredded chicken works beautifully as a substitute.

The ingredient list may look a little long, but don’t let that fool you – this chili comes together easily. Every bite is worth the effort, and once you taste it, you’ll understand why it’s a recipe to keep on repeat.

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Ingredients to Gather

• Olive oil – Provides a smooth base to sauté vegetables and build rich flavor.
• Shredded cooked turkey – Makes the chili hearty while keeping it lean and satisfying.
• Onion – Adds savory depth and a touch of natural sweetness.
• Garlic – Brings warmth and bold, aromatic flavor.
• Red bell pepper – Lends color, crunch, and gentle sweetness.
• Celery – Contributes earthy freshness and subtle texture.
• Jalapeño pepper – Infuses a kick of heat and bright spice.
• Dried oregano – Adds herbal depth and a hint of Mediterranean warmth.
• Bay leaves – Impart a subtle, layered earthiness as the chili simmers.
• Chili powder – Delivers smoky spice and the signature chili flavor.
• Light brown sugar – Balances the heat and acidity with a touch of sweetness.
• Cumin – Enhances the chili’s earthy, nutty backbone.
• Diced tomatoes – Form a tangy, juicy base that ties the flavors together.
• Chicken broth – Brings everything together with savory depth and richness.
• Kosher salt – Brightens and balances every flavor in the pot.
• Ground black pepper – Adds gentle heat and sharpness.
• Red kidney beans – Provide protein, fiber, and a creamy bite.
• Cheddar cheese – Melts into the chili for a creamy, sharp finish.
• Sour cream – Cools the heat with tangy, velvety creaminess.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

3 cups shredded cooked turkey

2 cups chopped onions

1 tablespoon garlic, minced

1 red bell pepper, deseeded and chopped

1 cup chopped celery

1 jalapeno pepper, deseeded and chopped

1 teaspoon dried oregano

2 bay leaves

3 tablespoons chili powder

1 heaping tablespoon light brown sugar

2 teaspoons cumin

3 cups canned diced tomatoes

2 cups chicken broth

1 teaspoon Kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

2 15-ounce cans of red kidney beans, drained

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup sour cream

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in a Dutch oven or large skillet. Add the onions, garlic, celery, red pepper, jalapeño pepper, oregano, bay leaves, brown sugar, chili powder, and cumin, and cook for 5 minutes, stirring.

2. Add the shredded turkey, tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring the chili to a boil, and reduce the heat and simmer. Stir occasionally for 5 minutes.

3. Mix in the kidney beans, and cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Serve the chili hot. Add a dollop of sour cream and top with shredded cheddar cheese.

Tips

• You can add a sweet potato or carrot for more color.
• For more spice, you can use fire-roasted tomatoes instead of diced tomatoes.
• You can add a little cinnamon to the chili for more flavor.
• If you want to add some heat to the chili, you can add cayenne pepper, pickled jalapeños, and minced fresh jalapeños.
• In this easy chili recipe, you can substitute black beans or pinto beans for the kidney beans.
• You can also substitute 2 pounds of ground turkey for the cooked shredded turkey. The ground turkey just needs to be cooked before adding to the chili.

Favorite Chili Toppings

• Avocados
• Fresh Cilantro
• Red Onion
• Limes
• Corn Chips
• Tortilla Chips
• Hot Sauce
• Green Onions

Storage Tips

When stored in an airtight container, this easy meal will last up to three days in the refrigerator. Eating this chili the next day allows the depth of flavor to come through, and you’ll love it even more.

This spicy turkey chili freezes well and will last 4 to 6 months in the freezer.

If you’re looking more favorite toppings ideas, you can find a list here.

We’ve reached the end of this Easy Turkey Chili Recipe. I hope you enjoyed it.

Let me know in the comments below if you made yourself a warm bowl of chili and what you thought.

Don’t forget to join the Creating a Cozy Life Group. You’re not going to believe how amazing it is!

I created a pin for you below that you can add to your Pinterest board so you can refer back to the recipe on the next cold day you want to make a pot of chili. I think it will become a favorite recipe.

Thanks for stopping by. I’m so happy you found us.

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• The Best Turkey Brine Recipe
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• Honey Glazed Bone-In Turkey Breast
• The Best Turkey Recipes

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• To-Die-For Hungarian Mushroom Soup
• Creamy Tomato Soup
• Low Carb Cabbage Soup
• How to Make Stuffed Pepper Soup
• Amazing White Chicken Chili

Recipe Card for this Amazing Turkey Chili Recipe with Nutritional Information