Get ready to transform your dinner routine with the most incredible turkey chili recipe that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! This isn't just any ordinary chili - it's a culinary adventure that combines lean ground turkey, hearty beans, and a perfect blend of spices that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for game day, this Deer Valley-inspired chili is about to become your new go-to recipe that promises maximum flavor with minimal effort!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, and measuring out the spices before beginning cooking.
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly softened, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Introduce the ground turkey to the pot, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook until the meat is completely browned and no pink remains, about 6-8 minutes.
- Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper over the meat. Stir thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly.
- Pour in the drained kidney beans, black beans, and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot.
- Simmer the chili for 35-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preference.
- Remove from heat and let the chili rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
Tips
- For the most flavorful chili, use fresh spices and take time to bloom them in the pot before adding liquid ingredients. This helps release their full aromatic potential.
- Don't rush the simmering process - low and slow is the key to developing deep, rich flavors. The longer the chili simmers, the more the ingredients will meld together.
- If you want to add extra depth, consider adding a small amount of dark chocolate or a splash of coffee to enhance the complexity of the chili.
- Make sure to drain and rinse the beans thoroughly to reduce excess sodium and prevent a mushy texture.
- For a meal prep friendly option, this chili freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Pro tip: leave a little extra space in the container as the chili will expand when frozen.
- Want to customize? Feel free to add diced bell peppers or swap out beans for variety. This recipe is wonderfully forgiving and adaptable to your taste preferences!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 70mg

