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Hearty High Protein Turkey and Bean Chili

Close-up of a white bowl filled with rich, saucy high protein chili featuring ground meat and kidney beans.

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This chili recipe uses lean ground turkey and multiple beans to deliver a satisfying, high-protein meal perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. It offers bold flavor and keeps you full longer.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1.5 pounds lean ground turkey (93% lean or higher)
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the pot with the turkey. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until the spices are fragrant.
  4. Add the rinsed and drained black beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans to the pot. Stir to combine with the meat and spices.
  5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth. Stir everything together well.
  6. Bring the chili to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot partially, and let it cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. For deeper flavor, simmer for 1 hour.
  7. Taste the chili and adjust salt and seasonings as needed before serving.

Notes

  • This chili is excellent for batch cooking; it freezes well for up to 3 months.
  • For a thicker chili, remove the lid during the last 15 minutes of simmering.
  • Serve this gluten free chili with toppings like shredded cheese, avocado, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra protein.

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