Turkey And White Bean Chili

Name: Turkey And White Bean Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups chicken broth; Olive oil for cooking

Highlighted under: Home Cooking Favorites

I love making this Turkey And White Bean Chili on chilly evenings. It’s a comforting dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with protein from the turkey and fiber from the beans. I’ve tried countless chili recipes, but this one stands out due to its unique combination of spices and the creamy texture from the white beans. Plus, it comes together in just a little over 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight meal when time is of the essence.

Created by

Elara Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-02-08T07:01:36.456Z

Creating this Turkey And White Bean Chili has been a delightful journey for me. I remember my first attempt when I didn’t expect it to turn out as well as it did. A blend of spices, including cumin and smoked paprika, adds a depth of flavor that transforms ordinary turkey and beans into something extraordinary. The key is to let it simmer just a bit to allow the flavors to meld perfectly.

One of the best parts about this recipe is its adaptability. You can easily adjust the spice level or add your favorite toppings to suit your family's taste. Whether it’s a sprinkle of cheese or a dollop of sour cream, it elevates the dish even further. Each bowl is a warm hug that brings everyone together!

Why You'll Love This Chili
Hearty turkey packed with lean protein
Creamy texture enhanced by white beans
Flavor-packed spices create a comforting warmth
Quick and easy to prepare for last-minute dinners

Ingredient Insights

The star of this Turkey And White Bean Chili is undoubtedly the ground turkey, which not only contributes a lean protein source but also absorbs the rich spices beautifully. When selecting turkey, consider using a higher fat content, like 93% lean, for added flavor and moisture. Ground turkey tends to dry out if overcooked, so keeping an eye on browning is key. Aim for a golden brown surface rather than a thoroughly cooked gray to maintain juiciness.

White beans bring more than just creaminess; they also provide a subtle nutty taste that complements the chili's spices perfectly. If you're out of white beans, cannellini or navy beans are excellent substitutes. Just ensure you rinse them well before adding to the pot to mitigate any canned bean flavor lingering in the dish. This step makes a significant difference in achieving a fresh and clean taste in your chili.

Serving Suggestions

When it's time to serve your chili, elevate it with the right toppings. Consider adding a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese that melts beautifully over the hot chili, or a dollop of sour cream to introduce a creamy element that contrasts well with the spices. Fresh cilantro not only adds a pop of color but also a refreshing herbal note that can lighten the dish. For a crunch factor, serve with tortilla chips or cornbread on the side, allowing for a delightful texture contrast.

This chili is highly versatile and can easily be made in larger batches for meal prep. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days and also freezes beautifully. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much. This makes it an excellent option for busy weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings.

Ingredients

Chili Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey
1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups chicken broth
Olive oil for cooking

Instructions

Cook the Turkey

In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart, and cook until browned.

Add Spices and Beans

Once the turkey is cooked through, stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine. Add the drained white beans and canned tomatoes, stirring everything together.

Simmer the Chili

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. If the chili is too thick, add a bit more broth as needed.

Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings like cheese, cilantro, or sour cream.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a chopped jalapeño when sautéing the onions. You can also use canned sautéed peppers for a milder flavor. This chili freezes well, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeks.

Techniques to Master

A key technique in making this chili is the sautéing process, where you want to cook the onions until they're translucent and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds a flavor base that permeates the entire dish. Don't rush it; allow those onions to caramelize slightly to develop their natural sweetness before adding the garlic, which you only want to cook briefly to avoid bitterness.

When incorporating your spices, be mindful of heat levels. To unlock their full potential, add spices right after the turkey is cooked but before adding the liquids. This combination allows the spices to bloom, deepening their flavors which results in a more aromatic and complex chili.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize this chili by experimenting with different beans or vegetables. For example, adding diced bell peppers or corn can increase the vegetable content and add natural sweetness. If you're a fan of heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Just keep in mind that layering spices should be done thoughtfully, adjusting the amount gradually to suit your spice tolerance.

You can also switch the ground turkey for lean ground beef or even a plant-based meat alternative if you prefer a meat-free dish. The cooking times might slightly vary, with plant-based options often requiring less time to reach the desired texture, so check them often to avoid overcooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken can be a great substitute and will result in a similar flavor profile.

→ How can I make this chili vegetarian?

You can replace the turkey with more beans or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

Some popular toppings include shredded cheese, chopped green onions, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftover chili can last up to 4 days in the fridge, or you can freeze it for up to 3 months.