Turkey White Bean Chili
This Turkey White Bean Chili is a hearty, healthy, and flavorful dish perfect for a comforting meal. Ready in under an hour.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1.5 lbs ground turkey, lean
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 can diced green chilies, undrained 4 oz
- 2 cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained 15 oz
- 1 can great northern beans, rinsed and drained 15 oz
- 4 cups chicken broth, low sodium
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional, for heat
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for garnish
Optional Toppings
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Sliced avocado
- Lime wedges
- Tortilla chips
Instructions
- Brown the Turkey: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced yellow onion and green bell pepper to the pot with the turkey. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the diced green chilies (undrained), rinsed and drained cannellini and great northern beans, chicken broth, ground cumin, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Simmer the Chili: Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for at least 20-30 minutes, or longer for flavors to meld, stirring occasionally. This simmering time allows the Turkey White Bean Chili to thicken slightly and develop its rich taste.
- Season and Serve: Remove from heat. Stir in the fresh cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle hot chili into bowls and serve with your favorite toppings.
Notes
- For extra flavor, lightly toast your cumin seeds before grinding them, or use a good quality ground cumin.
- Don't be afraid to taste and adjust seasonings frequently during the simmering process; a little extra salt or a squeeze of lime can elevate the entire dish.
- If you prefer a creamier chili, add 2-4 ounces of softened cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream during the last 10 minutes of simmering.