LEAN TURKEY CHILLI WITH KIDNEY BEANS
Lean Turkey Chili with Kidney Beans is a rich, comforting dish that’s loaded with bold flavours, high-quality protein and nourishing ingredients. This chilli features lean ground turkey, hearty kidney beans, sweet bell peppers and aromatic spices like cumin and chilli powder; all simmered in a savoury tomato base. Perfect for meal prep, game day or a cosy weeknight dinner, this one-pot recipe is both nutritious and easy to make. The kidney beans provide extra fibre, making this chilli filling and heart-healthy, while the lean turkey keeps it light. Whether enjoyed on its own, paired with brown rice or served with a side of cornbread, this chilli is a satisfying, wholesome option for anyone looking for a flavourful, protein-packed meal.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Lunch, Dinner, Entrée
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
American, Tex-Mex
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Simmer, One-Pot Wonders, Stew
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Weeknight Dinner, Meal Prep, Fall, Super Bowl, Comfort Food
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Healthy, High Protein, Gluten-Free, Quick & Easy
DISH TYPE
Chilli, Stew
INGREDIENTS
The following are the ingredients we need to prepare this chilli turkey and kidney beans.
- 100g ground turkey
- 50g kidney beans
- ¼ onion, chopped
- ¼ bell pepper, diced
- ¼ tsp cumin
- ¼ tsp chilli powder
- 100g diced tomatoes (canned)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (PER SERVING)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fibre: 6g
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Sugar: 4g
PREPARATION
Here is a step-by-step guide to preparing this chilli turkey and kidney beans.
- Prepare The Ingredients: Chop the onion and bell pepper into small, even pieces for a uniform texture. Drain and rinse the kidney beans.
- Heat A Pan: Place a non-stick pan or saucepan over medium heat.
- Cook The Turkey: Add the ground turkey to the pan and break it apart with a spoon. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until browned.
- Sauté The Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the pan and cook for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add The Spices: Sprinkle in the cumin and chilli powder, stirring to coat the ingredients evenly. Let the spices toast for 30 seconds to enhance their flavour.
- Combine The Ingredients: Pour in the diced tomatoes and add the kidney beans. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer The Chili: Reduce the heat to low, cover it and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve Hot: Enjoy the chilli on its own or with a side of rice, quinoa or whole-grain bread.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
20 minutes
TIPS
Here are some helpful tips for you when making this chilli turkey and kidney beans.
- Use Lean Turkey For A Healthier Dish: Ground turkey keeps this chilli high in protein but lower in fat.
- Toast The Spices: Cooking the cumin and chilli powder briefly before adding liquids enhances their depth of flavour.
- Simmer Longer For Richer Taste: Letting the chilli cook for an extra 10 minutes allows the flavours to meld better.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Add more chilli powder or a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
- Make It Ahead Of Time: Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavours continue to develop.
VARIATIONS
- Chunky Chili: Add diced sweet potatoes or zucchini for extra texture and nutrition.
- Spicy Southwest Chili: Stir in chopped jalapeños or smoked paprika for a spicier kick.
- Cheesy Topping: Sprinkle with shredded cheddar or crumbled feta for a richer flavour.
- Vegetable Boost: Mix in spinach, mushrooms or corn to add more vitamins and minerals.
- Thicker Chili: Mash some of the kidney beans before adding them for a heartier consistency.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
- Freezing: This chilli freezes well. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Meal Prep Tip: Make a double batch and portion it out for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.