Delicious and Easy Turkey Taco Chili Recipe
This turkey taco chili recipe is a must-try for those who love a delicious twist on traditional chili. With the addition of turkey taco seasoning and a variety of beans, this flavorful and protein-packed dish will satisfy every appetite. As an avid food lover myself, I highly recommend giving this recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed!
But why should you take my word for it? Well, not only is this chili easy to make, but it’s also incredibly versatile, meaning you can adapt it to your taste buds and preferences. Plus, it’s packed with healthy ingredients such as lean ground turkey and multiple types of beans. Another bonus? It freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep or large gatherings.
So whether you’re in the mood for a cozy weeknight dinner or are hosting a game day party, give this turkey taco chili recipe a chance to prove its worth. Trust me – once you taste it, you’ll be hooked!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This turkey taco chili is one of the most delicious chili recipes you’ll ever try. With its combination of savory seasonings and protein-packed beans, this recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal.
What makes this recipe even better is that it’s quick and easy to prepare. You can make it on a busy weeknight or on the weekend for a warm and comforting dinner that will satisfy your cravings.
Not only is it easy, but it’s also a versatile dish. You can serve it as a soup or over rice, or even use it as a topping for nachos or baked potatoes. And if you’re looking for a lower-carb option, you can skip the rice and serve it with lettuce wraps instead.
The flavor profile of this turkey taco chili is unmatched. The combination of the ground turkey, taco seasoning, and various beans creates an explosion of flavors in your mouth. Plus, the green chilies, celery, and bell peppers add an extra dimension to the taste.
With every bite, your taste buds will be bursting with excitement. This healthy yet yummy turkey taco chili is sure to satisfy your cravings for something hearty and flavorful.
Ingredient List
The ingredients for this Turkey Taco Chili Recipe are easy to find in any grocery store. You will need ground turkey, pinto, kidney, and black beans, stewed tomatoes, tomato sauce, green chilies, celery, garlic cloves, onion, cumin powder, and taco seasoning mix. Gather as well salt and pepper and some olive oil or vegetable oil to fry the meat. Here’s the complete ingredient list:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 medium yellow onion diced
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 2 celery diced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) stewed tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (4 oz) green chilies
- 1 tablespoon cumin powder
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning mix
- Salt and pepper to taste
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have all of our ingredients prepped and ready, it’s time to start cooking.
Getting Started
- Heat a large Dutch oven or slow cooker over medium heat.
- Add two tablespoons of vegetable oil or olive oil to the pan and heat for one minute.
- Add one pound of lean ground turkey or beef to the pan, stirring occasionally, and cook until browned.
Preparing the Chili Base
- When meat is browned, add one chopped medium onion and three diced celery stalks to the pot, cooking until vegetables have softened.
- Add four minced garlic cloves and continue cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in one can of stewed tomatoes, one can of tomato sauce, one can each of pinto beans, kidney beans, and black beans (rinsed and drained), one can of diced green chilies, one diced bell pepper, and two cups of water into pot with other ingredients
- Stir in one tablespoon chili powder, one tablespoon cumin powder, and one tablespoon taco seasoning mix until combined with other ingredients
Cooking
- Bring chili to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for at least 20 minutes on stovetop or four hours on low in a slow cooker until vegetables are tender
- Season with salt and pepper
Congratulations! You’ve officially cooked up a delicious turkey taco chili recipe for your friends or family to enjoy!
Substitutions and Variations
As with any recipe, the joy of cooking is in the freedom to experiment and swap out ingredients that may not be to your taste or dietary needs. In this turkey taco chili recipe, there are several possible substitutions and variations that you can try.
If you’re not a fan of one type of bean, feel free to swap it out for another. For example, if you don’t like kidney beans, you can replace them with more pinto beans or black beans.
For a spicier kick, you can add more chili powder or jalapeños. If you prefer a milder version, simply reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it altogether.
Want to make the recipe vegetarian? Swap out the ground turkey for a meatless alternative such as crumbled tofu or tempeh. You can also add more vegetables such as diced zucchini or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
If you have leftovers, try turning this recipe into a chili mac by mixing it with macaroni noodles and baking it with shredded cheese on top. Or add a splash of beer for an extra layer of depth and richness.
Finally, feel free to customize your toppings according to your preferences. Some yummy and healthy options include diced avocado, fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to this quick and easy turkey taco chili recipe. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to serving and pairing the turkey taco chili, you’ve got plenty of options. This hearty and savory dish is perfect as a standalone meal or an appetizer, and it pairs well with a variety of dishes, drinks, and sides.
To serve the chili, you can ladle it into bowls and top it with your favorite toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, and diced avocado. You can also serve it as a dip with tortilla chips or crackers for an easy party appetizer.
When it comes to pairing the chili with drinks, you can’t go wrong with a cold beer, especially if you’re enjoying the chili while watching a game or having a backyard barbecue. A Mexican lager or a hoppy IPA would be great choices to complement the spicy flavors of the chili.
If you prefer non-alcoholic options, try serving the chili with iced tea or lemonade, or even some sparkling water for a refreshing twist. A fruity red wine like Zinfandel or a bold Cabernet Sauvignon also make excellent pairings.
When considering sides to serve with turkey taco chili, there are endless possibilities. Cornbread is always a classic option that pairs perfectly with any chili recipe. You can also serve rice on the side, which would help to balance out the spice level of the dish. Some other tasty sides include roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers, or a simple green salad topped with fresh herbs and dressing.
Whatever way you choose to enjoy this yummy healthy dish, make sure to have some extra servings ready because your guests will definitely be asking for seconds!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
As a busy chef, I understand how important it is to save time in the kitchen. Fortunately, the Turkey Taco Chili recipe is easy to make-ahead and reheat, making meal planning a breeze.
To make-ahead, cook the chili as instructed and allow it to cool completely. Transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to heat it up, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or defrost in the microwave until it’s completely thawed.
If you have leftovers that need reheating, transfer them into a microwave-safe bowl or saucepan over medium heat with water or chicken broth. Simmer for a few minutes until heated through, stirring occasionally.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is the various storing options. You can store it in the fridge for a few days or freeze it for later use. Either way, you’ll be able to enjoy this yummy healthy dish whenever you wish.
Remember that when reheating chili, be sure not to boil it as this will affect its taste and texture. Keeping a watchful eye on the temperature ensures that it will retain its rich blend of flavors.
In conclusion, with these tips, meal planning becomes a breeze. Making ahead ensures you have quick access to great-tasting meals regardless of how busy your day may turn out to be. So go ahead and whip up our delicious Turkey Taco Chili recipe and enjoy your home-cooked meal anytime!
Tips for Perfect Results
To achieve the perfect taste and texture for this delicious turkey taco chili recipe, here are a few tips I’ve learned along the way.
First, make sure to brown the ground turkey or beef before adding it to the slow cooker. This step is crucial as it helps to seal in the flavors of the meat, making for a richer taste. To do this, cook the ground meat over medium heat until it’s no longer pink, then drain off any excess fat before adding it to the slow cooker.
Another tip is to use a combination of beans for added texture and flavor. I recommend using pinto beans, kidney beans, and black beans for a hearty blend of legumes that will complement the other ingredients in the chili.
When it comes to seasoning, don’t be afraid to adjust the spice levels according to your personal preferences. If you like your chili on the spicier side, add an extra teaspoon of chili powder or a dash of cayenne pepper. Conversely, if you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount of taco seasoning or omit the green chilies altogether.
To give your chili an extra burst of freshness and crunch, top it off with diced avocado, crumbled tortilla chips, and fresh cilantro just before serving. The contrast in texture will take this dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
Finally, if you really want to take this taco chili up a notch, serve it alongside some warm cornbread or pair it with a cold beer. These subtle accompaniments will elevate your meal from just another weeknight dinner to something truly special.
By following these simple tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to creating a yummy healthy turkey taco chili that’s quick easy and sure to please everyone at your table.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this turkey taco chili recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves a hearty and healthy meal. Its blend of various types of beans, ground turkey, and a rich array of spices and herbs make it hard not to love.
This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion. It is a versatile dish that can be customized to fit your personal taste by making various substitutions and variations. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover ingredients you may have in your pantry.
You will be amazed at how yummy and healthy this recipe is! I highly recommend giving it a try. And if you’re looking to impress your friends and family, this turkey taco chili recipe is an excellent option that’s sure to impress everyone.
So what are you waiting for? Head into the kitchen and whip up this delicious turkey taco chili recipe today! I guarantee you won’t regret it.
Turkey Taco Chili Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb 97% fat free lean ground turkey
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves (you can add more if you like)
- 1 1/2 cups celery, roughly chopped
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (4 ounce) can green chilies
- 1 (15 ounce) can stewed tomatoes
- 4 (16 ounce) cans black beans (mix and match ) or (16 ounce) cans kidney beans (mix and match )
- 1 (1 ounce) packet taco seasoning
- 1 (1 ounce) packet hidden valley ranch dressing mix
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 (16 ounce) bag frozen white corn
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Brown the turkey, adding onions, garlic and celery about half way through. One by one add the remaining ingredients. Do not drain anything just dump it in! Heat to boiling and simmer for 30 minutes.
- This recipe is very flexible - you can add more celery, stewed tomatoes, taco or ranch seasoning and cumin if you'd like to. Sometimes I like to puree the beans before putting them in to make it thicker.
- This freezes well and just gets better the longer it sits.
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Nutrition
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Tony is an experienced chef, crafting delicious comfort food. He’s also an influential blogger, providing helpful recipes and tips on his website, taosburgersandbeer.com. As an expert in his field, he offers valuable advice to readers. His knowledge and creative recipes make it easy to cook exciting, flavorful dishes.