White Bean Turkey Chili Recipe for Quick Dinners

If you're looking for a quick and healthy dinner, this White Bean Turkey Chili Recipe is just what you need. I remember one chilly evening when my son, Jake, came home from soccer practice and said, 'Mom, can we have chili tonight?' This recipe quickly became a family favorite, and I'm sure it will be in your home too.

Why You’ll Love It

  • It's packed with protein and fiber.
  • Ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner.
  • Easily customizable with your favorite toppings.

Pure Comfort

There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of chili to bring everyone together. The creamy white beans combined with lean turkey create a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out.

What You Need

  • 1 lb 1 lb ground turkey – You can substitute with ground chicken or beef.
  • 1 1 large yellow onion, diced – For a sweeter flavor, try using a sweet onion.
  • 2 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
  • 2 cans 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed – Cannellini or great northern beans work well.
  • 1 can 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – Fire-roasted tomatoes add a nice smoky flavor.
  • 2 cups 2 cups chicken broth – Vegetable broth is a great alternative.
  • 1 tbsp 1 tbsp chili powder – Adjust to taste for more heat.
  • 1 tsp 1 tsp cumin – Smoked paprika can be a delicious substitute.
  • to taste Salt and pepper to taste – Feel free to add other spices you love.
  • as desired Chili toppings (cheese, avocado, cilantro) – Get creative with your favorite toppings!

Time to Cook

Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 20 minutes | Total: 30 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, it can be made a day in advance.

Steps to Make It

  1. Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until it's browned, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break it up with a spoon as it cooks.
  2. Next, stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. You'll love the aroma that fills your kitchen.
  3. Now, add the drained white beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir everything together until well combined, and let it simmer.
  4. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir again, and let the chili simmer for about 15 minutes. The flavors will meld beautifully.
  5. After simmering, taste the chili and adjust the seasonings if needed. If you like it spicier, feel free to add more chili powder.
  6. Finally, serve the chili hot in bowls and let everyone add their favorite toppings. Watching the kids pile on cheese and avocado is always a joy!

Make It Perfect

  • For a creamier texture, mash some of the beans before adding them to the pot.
  • Leftovers taste even better the next day, so don’t hesitate to make extra.
  • You can easily double the recipe for a larger crowd.

Mix It Up

  • Add bell peppers for extra color and crunch.
  • Swap in quinoa for a hearty vegetarian option.
  • Top with crispy bacon bits for a smoky twist.

Perfect Partners

  • Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
  • Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.

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FAQs

Can I make this chili ahead of time?

Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze this chili?

Yes, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat.

What can I substitute for ground turkey?

Ground chicken or even lentils work great as alternatives.

What are some good toppings for white bean chili?

Cheese, avocado, sour cream, and fresh cilantro are all delicious options.

Conclusion

This White Bean Turkey Chili Recipe is not just quick and easy; it's also a healthy option for busy weeknights. With its comforting flavors and delightful toppings, it's sure to become a go-to in your household. Enjoy every warm spoonful!

White bean turkey chili with toppings in a bowl.

White Bean Turkey Chili Recipe for Quick Dinners

This White Bean Turkey Chili is a quick and healthy dinner option packed with protein and fiber. It’s perfect for families and can be made in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal meal prep choice.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Soup
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Large Pot

Ingredients
  

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground turkey You can substitute with ground chicken or beef.
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced For a sweeter flavor, try using a sweet onion.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
  • 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed Cannellini or great northern beans work well.
  • 1 can diced tomatoes Fire-roasted tomatoes add a nice smoky flavor.
  • 2 cups chicken broth Vegetable broth is a great alternative.
  • 1 tbsp chili powder Adjust to taste for more heat.
  • 1 tsp cumin Smoked paprika can be a delicious substitute.
  • to taste Salt and pepper Feel free to add other spices you love.
  • as desired Chili toppings (cheese, avocado, cilantro) Get creative with your favorite toppings!

Instructions
 

  • Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until it’s browned, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break it up with a spoon as it cooks.
  • Next, stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. You’ll love the aroma that fills your kitchen.
  • Now, add the drained white beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir everything together until well combined, and let it simmer.
  • Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir again, and let the chili simmer for about 15 minutes. The flavors will meld beautifully.
  • After simmering, taste the chili and adjust the seasonings if needed. If you like it spicier, feel free to add more chili powder.
  • Finally, serve the chili hot in bowls and let everyone add their favorite toppings. Watching the kids pile on cheese and avocado is always a joy!

Notes

Leftovers taste even better the next day, so don’t hesitate to make extra.
Keyword Chili, Healthy, Meal Prep, Quick Dinner, turkey, White Bean