Smoky Chipotle Turkey Chili
Smoky Chipotle Turkey Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender ground turkey with smoky chipotle peppers, beans, and aromatic spices. The chipotle lends a warm, smoky heat…
Tip: save now, cook later.Smoky Chipotle Turkey Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender ground turkey with smoky chipotle peppers, beans, and aromatic spices. The chipotle lends a warm, smoky heat that pairs perfectly with the savory turkey and rich tomato base. It’s a comforting bowl of chili that’s packed with protein and perfect for cozy nights in.
I love making this chili on a chilly evening when I want something filling but not too heavy. The chipotle peppers give it just the right amount of kick without overpowering the other flavors. One of my favorite tricks is to let it simmer low and slow so all the ingredients meld together beautifully, making each spoonful more delicious than the last.
I usually serve this chili with a sprinkle of shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and some crunchy tortilla chips on the side. It’s great for casual dinners or even meal prep because it tastes just as good the next day. Whenever I make this, it’s a guaranteed hit with friends and family who love a little smoky spice in their food.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This lean meat keeps the chili light but protein-packed. If you prefer, ground chicken or lean beef work well here too.
Chipotle Peppers in Adobo: These bring that smoky heat and signature flavor. If you can’t find chipotle, smoked paprika adds smokiness but less heat, or use a dash of cayenne for spice.
Butternut Squash or Sweet Potato: These add a subtle sweetness and soft texture. Feel free to skip if you want a more traditional chili or swap with diced carrots.
Kidney Beans: Classic chili beans giving body and fiber. Black beans or pinto beans make good substitutes, depending on what you like or have on hand.
How Do You Get Rich Flavor Without Letting the Chili Cook Forever?
The secret is layering flavors early and letting the chili simmer gently to combine everything without rushing.
- Start by cooking onion and garlic slowly so their sweetness develops.
- Brown the turkey well for extra depth of flavor; don’t rush this step.
- Add the chipotle peppers and adobo sauce to intensify smoky heat early on.
- Simmer the chili uncovered – this thickens it and lets flavors blend nicely.
- Stir occasionally to avoid sticking and check salt to balance flavors.
Patience is key! Even 30 minutes of gentle simmering makes a big difference in taste and texture. I find this method makes each spoonful satisfying and full of character.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven – it cooks the chili evenly and handles long simmering well.
- Wooden spoon – perfect for stirring without scratching your pot.
- Chef’s knife – helps you dice onions, peppers, and squash quickly and safely.
- Cutting board – provides a stable surface for all the chopping tasks.
- Measuring spoons and cups – to get the spices and liquids just right for balanced flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap turkey for ground beef or pork to make it richer and more traditional in taste.
- Add corn kernels for a touch of sweetness and crunch that contrasts nicely with smoky heat.
- Stir in a handful of chopped spinach or kale near the end for extra veggies and color.
- Mix in black beans instead of kidney beans for a creamier texture and earthy flavor.
How to Make Smoky Chipotle Turkey Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped (adjust to desired heat)
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from the chipotle peppers can)
- 1 bell pepper (yellow or orange), diced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup butternut squash or sweet potato, diced (optional)
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt (for topping, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This chili takes about 15 minutes to prep and 40 minutes to cook, making the total time around 55 minutes. Most of the cooking time is simmering, so you can relax while the flavors come together beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base:
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Brown the Turkey:
Add the ground turkey to the pot. Use a spoon to break it apart and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
3. Add Smoky Flavor:
Stir in the chopped chipotle peppers and adobo sauce. Let them cook with the meat for 1-2 minutes to release their smoky heat.
4. Add Vegetables:
Mix in the diced bell pepper and butternut squash (or sweet potato), cooking for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
5. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chicken broth, and tomato paste to the pot. Stir to mix everything evenly.
6. Season and Simmer:
Sprinkle the ground cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, coriander, salt, and pepper into the pot. Stir well. Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens and the flavors meld together.
7. Final Touches and Serving:
Taste your chili and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top, and sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a fresh finish.
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works well as a lean alternative. Just follow the same cooking steps, but keep an eye on cooking time since chicken might cook a bit faster.
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier or Milder?
To adjust spice levels, use fewer chipotle peppers and less adobo sauce for milder heat. For more kick, add an extra chipotle pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Can I Prepare This Chili Ahead of Time?
Yes! This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat on the stove or microwave before serving.
What’s the Best Way to Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or use a microwave being careful to heat evenly.