Quick Stovetop Turkey Chili

Highlighted under: Fast & Easy Meals

This quick stovetop turkey chili is a delicious and hearty meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with flavor and protein, it comes together in just one pot!

Anna

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-01T21:38:30.249Z

This quick stovetop turkey chili is a go-to recipe for those who love a hearty yet healthy meal. With ground turkey as a lean protein source, it's packed with flavor from spices and vegetables. Serve it with your favorite toppings for a satisfying dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare in one pot
  • Lean turkey keeps it healthy without sacrificing flavor
  • Perfect for meal prep or a comforting weeknight dinner

A Quick and Nutritious Meal

In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a wholesome meal can be challenging. This quick stovetop turkey chili is designed to fit seamlessly into your busy lifestyle without compromising on nutrition. Made with lean ground turkey and a medley of vegetables, this dish boasts a hearty profile that satisfies both hunger and nutritional needs.

Not only does this chili provide a comforting warmth on chilly nights, but it also packs a punch of protein and fiber. The combination of kidney beans and turkey ensures that you’re not just filling up, but also fueling your body with essential nutrients. It's a delicious way to keep your health goals on track, even when you're short on time.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best aspects of this turkey chili is its versatility. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap the kidney beans for black beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas based on your preference. You can also adjust the spice level by adding jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra kick, making it a dish that caters to all palates.

This recipe also serves as a fantastic base for various toppings. Whether you prefer a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of cheese, or a handful of fresh cilantro, customizing your chili can elevate the meal experience. With each bowl, you can create a unique flavor profile that suits your mood.

Easy Meal Prep Solution

If you're looking for an easy meal prep solution, this turkey chili is your answer. It stores well in the fridge for several days and can be easily frozen for future meals. Simply portion out the chili into airtight containers, and you’ll have a ready-made lunch or dinner that you can reheat in minutes.

Meal prepping with this chili not only saves you time but also ensures you have a nutritious option available when life gets busy. Having a batch of turkey chili on hand means you can skip the takeout line and enjoy a homemade meal that’s just as convenient.

Ingredients:

For the Chili

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
  • 1 cup onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Gather these ingredients for a delicious meal!

Instructions:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.

Cook the Turkey

Add ground turkey to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 7-10 minutes.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

Simmer the Chili

Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Once your chili is ready, serve it warm with your favorite toppings!

Nutritional Benefits of Turkey

Ground turkey is an excellent source of lean protein, making it an ideal choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. With fewer calories and fat compared to other meats, turkey helps build muscle while supporting weight loss goals. Additionally, it's rich in essential vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins, iron, and zinc, which are crucial for overall health.

Incorporating turkey into your meals can also contribute to heart health. The lower fat content helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels, while its high protein content promotes satiety, keeping you fuller for longer and helping to curb unhealthy snacking habits.

Tips for Perfect Chili

To achieve the best flavor in your chili, let it simmer for a while. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld together, creating a deeper, richer taste. If you have the time, consider making it a day ahead; allowing it to sit overnight enhances the flavor even more, making it an excellent choice for leftovers.

Another tip is to taste and adjust your seasonings as you go. Everyone's palate is different, so don’t hesitate to add more chili powder, cumin, or even a splash of lime juice to brighten up the flavors. The key is to make this chili your own, tailoring it to your preferences for a truly satisfying meal.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?

Yes, ground beef can be used, but it may increase the fat content.

→ How can I make this chili vegetarian?

Substitute the ground turkey with lentils or additional beans.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this chili freezes well! Just cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

Try sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or avocado!

Quick Stovetop Turkey Chili

This quick stovetop turkey chili is a delicious and hearty meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with flavor and protein, it comes together in just one pot!

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time40 minutes

Created by: Anna

Recipe Type: Fast & Easy Meals

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Chili

  1. 1 lb ground turkey
  2. 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  3. 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  4. 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
  5. 1 cup onion, chopped
  6. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  7. 2 tablespoons chili powder
  8. 1 teaspoon cumin
  9. Salt and pepper to taste
  10. 1 tablespoon olive oil

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.

Step 02

Add ground turkey to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 7-10 minutes.

Step 03

Stir in the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

Step 04

Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 300 kcal
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Dietary Fiber: 8g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 22g