Ina Garten Turkey Chili Recipe

I didn’t expect this turkey chili to win me over so fast, but the way it comes together just works in every way!

So here’s my biggest tips, guys:

Chopping everything to a medium size—not too fine—helps keep the texture varied, which makes it feel more satisfying to eat.

I use crushed fire-roasted tomatoes instead of regular diced to bring in a little smokiness without having to add extra ingredients.

Don’t skip the fresh basil at the end—it’s not typical for chili, but in this version, it completely lifts the finish.

The spice is present but doesn’t overpower anything, which is why I keep coming back to this one when I want something cozy.

One bowl is filling, but I usually go back for seconds without even realizing it!

How to Make Ina Garten’s Turkey Chili

Ingredients

• 4 tbsp Chili Powder
• 2 tsp Ground Cumin
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• 2 lbs Ground Turkey
• 2 cups Onions (diced)
• 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 Green Bell Pepper (diced)
• 1 Red Bell Pepper (diced)
• 1 can Tomatoes (32 oz.)
• 1 can Black Beans (15 oz.)
• 1 can Kidney Beans (15 oz.)
• Salt to taste
• Ground Black Pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add the diced onions and minced garlic, then sauté until the onions are translucent.

Step 2:

Add the bell peppers to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

This will enhance the flavor and texture.

Step 3:

Add the ground turkey to the pot and cook until it’s browned.

Break it apart with a spoon while it cooks.

Step 4:

Mix in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Stir well to coat the turkey and vegetables with these spices.

Step 5:

Pour in the tomatoes and bring everything to a simmer.
Cover the pot and let it cook for about 30 minutes.

Step 6:

Add the black beans and kidney beans to the pot.

Simmer for an additional 15 minutes to blend the flavors.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use Fresh Spices

I recommend using fresh chili powder and cumin for maximum flavor and aroma.

Old spices lose potency, so check the expiration dates before starting.

Adjust the Spice Level

Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder and paprika.
Adding a bit more or less will make it perfect for your taste preferences.

Prepare in Advance

This chili tastes even better when allowed to sit for a day.

Prepare it a day ahead, and store in the fridge for deeper, more developed flavors.

Use Canned Beans

You can use canned beans for convenience, but rinse them well.

This reduces the sodium content and makes them taste fresher.

Pair with the Right Toppings

Consider adding toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped cilantro.

They will complement the warm spices and add layers of texture.

What to Serve with Ina Garten Turkey Chili Recipe

Crusty Bread

When serving Ina Garten’s turkey chili, a warm loaf of crusty bread can be the perfect accompaniment.

The chewy texture and rich flavor of the bread complement the hearty chili well.

You can easily use the bread to scoop up chunks of tender turkey and beans from the dish.

Simple Green Salad

A crisp, simple green salad adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the turkey chili.

Toss in some arugula or spinach with a light vinaigrette for a zesty side.

The fresh greens balance the spiciness and create a well-rounded meal.

Creamy Polenta

Although not traditionally paired with chili, creamy polenta offers an indulgent texture that complements the lightness of turkey.

The smoothness of the polenta mingles well with the chili’s robust spices.

It’s a unique option that brings a comforting twist to your meal.

Pickled Vegetables

Consider serving some quick pickled vegetables alongside your chili for something a bit different.

The tangy, crunchy profile heightens the flavors of the dish nicely!

These veggies provide a pleasing textural contrast to the softness of the chili.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Grilled corn on the cob slathered in butter stands out as an excellent side dish for the chili.

You will likely appreciate the smoky notes from the grill that contrast with the spicy elements of the turkey chili.

The sweetness of the corn adds an unexpected sweetness to the combination.

Variations and Substitutions

One fun way to customize this turkey chili is by experimenting with different types of beans.

You can use pinto, black, kidney, or white beans to add a new twist to the flavor profile!

Feel free to mix and match or use what you have on hand.

Spice Adjustments

If you’re keen on a spicier kick, try adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.

You might also enjoy a smoky hint by using smoked paprika instead of the regular type.

Trust me, these small tweaks can make a big difference!

Meat Alternatives

Swapping the ground turkey for another type of poultry like ground chicken works perfectly well.

You can even try a vegetarian version using crumbled tofu or additional beans for protein and texture.

Creative Add-ins

Consider adding some corn for a touch of sweetness.

Or maybe include roasted bell peppers for a richer taste.

The possibilities are endless, and it’s all about tailoring the chili to fit your cravings!

How to Store Leftover Ina Garten Turkey Chili

Refrigerating

You should always let the turkey chili cool completely before transferring it to a storage container.

Using an airtight container will help maintain the freshness of your chili.

You can store the chili in the refrigerator for up to four days, keeping it safe and tasty.

Freezing for Longer Storage

For storing the chili longer, freezing is a great option.

Frozen turkey chili maintains its flavors and texture if cooled completely before freezing.

You can freeze the chili in portion-sized containers or freezer bags for convenient future meals.

Labeling and Dating

Do not forget to label and date any freezer bags or containers to easily track how long they have been stored.

This practice ensures you consume your delicious chili while it’s still at its best!

Enjoy your tasty leftovers for weeks to come with these simple storage guidelines!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-Spicing

It can be tempting to add extra spice hoping for more flavor, but this can overwhelm the dish.

Try seasoning a little at a time and taste as you go!

You want to balance the flavors without losing the essence of the turkey.

Skipping the Sauté Step

Avoid skipping the sautéing of onions and garlic.

This step brings out the natural sweetness of the onions and enhances the overall flavor.

Take a few minutes to do this, and your turkey chili will taste much better!

Using Lean Turkey

Using lean turkey can make the chili less flavorful and more dry.

Opt for ground turkey that has a bit more fat content.

The best flavor often comes with a bit of fat, making your chili richer!