If you’re looking for a dinner that checks all the boxes—hearty, healthy, flavorful, and easy to make—this clean eating turkey chili is it. Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich beans, and a bold blend of spices, it’s comfort food that won’t weigh you down. Ideal for weeknights, meal prep, or a cozy weekend in, this chili is the kind of recipe you’ll turn to again and again.
Unlike heavier versions loaded with beef and saturated fats, this turkey chili keeps things light but satisfying. Lean ground turkey takes center stage, supported by layers of flavor from onions, garlic, tomatoes, and warm spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika. It’s robust without being greasy, spicy without being overpowering, and thick enough to keep you full for hours.
This recipe is designed with simplicity and versatility in mind. You don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated steps. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, and you can customize it with whatever beans or veggies you have on hand. It also happens to freeze beautifully, so it’s perfect for batch cooking.
What sets this chili apart is its clean, whole-food profile. No added sugar. No processed shortcuts. Just real, wholesome ingredients that come together in one big pot of flavor-packed goodness. You get all the richness of classic chili, but in a way that supports a balanced lifestyle.
It’s also great for feeding a crowd. You can double or triple the recipe easily. Set it up in a slow cooker for game day, or simmer it on the stove for a family dinner. Either way, it fills the house with irresistible smells.
This chili also gets better with time. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers something to look forward to. It’s a reliable lunch, a hearty dinner, and the kind of meal that makes eating well feel like a win, not a chore.
If you’re trying to eat more veggies, this chili is a great place to sneak them in. Add bell peppers, zucchini, corn, or spinach. The base recipe is flexible and forgiving.
It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and high in protein, so it fits a variety of dietary needs without feeling restrictive. The spice level is easy to adjust—add more chili powder or hot sauce if you like a kick, or dial it back for a milder version.
You won’t miss the beef, the extra fat, or the cheese-laden toppings. This turkey chili delivers comfort with a lighter touch, letting the spices and textures do all the work.
Serve it in bowls with avocado, cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or just as is. Spoon it over brown rice or roasted sweet potatoes, or scoop it with tortilla chips. The options are endless.
No matter how you serve it, it will warm you up, fill you up, and keep you coming back for more.
It’s a go-to for busy nights, health-conscious weeks, and any time you want something satisfying without the guilt.
In short, this is the kind of recipe that makes healthy eating easy. And that’s the best kind of recipe.
Servings: 6 servings
Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
- Add ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
- Add beans and corn. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot.
Tips:
- Add diced bell peppers or zucchini for extra veggies.
- Freeze leftovers in individual portions for quick meals.
- Top with avocado, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime for freshness.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
It’s hearty, flavorful, and satisfying, but made with clean, wholesome ingredients. No fuss, just a warm bowl of chili that tastes amazing and supports your healthy habits.
A hearty, protein-packed turkey chili made with clean ingredients and bold flavor. Easy to make, great for meal prep, and perfect for warming up on busy nights.
