Low-Calorie Turkey Chili

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Savor the hearty goodness of this Low-Calorie Turkey Chili recipe, packed with lean ground turkey, vibrant veggies, and a blend of aromatic spices. This nutritious and satisfying dish is perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep, delivering robust flavor without the guilt. Serve it up with your favorite toppings for a comforting meal that won't derail your health goals.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-10-10T20:36:34.455Z

This Low-Calorie Turkey Chili combines the best of health and flavor for a delightful meal any night of the week.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Low in calories but high in flavor.
Packed with nutritious vegetables and lean protein.
Perfect for meal prep and easy to customize.

      

Nutritional Benefits of Turkey Chili

This Low-Calorie Turkey Chili not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a host of nutritional benefits. Lean ground turkey is an excellent source of protein, helping you feel fuller for longer while aiding in muscle recovery and growth. Coupled with a medley of beans, this dish offers a boost of fiber that supports digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar levels.

In addition to the protein content, the vibrant veggies like bell peppers and onions contribute essential vitamins and minerals. These ingredients are packed with antioxidants that help combat inflammation and support overall health. The low-sodium chicken broth keeps the sodium levels in check while still adding depth to the flavor profile of this delicious chili.

Versatile Meal Prep Option

Low-Calorie Turkey Chili is an exceptionally versatile meal that can fit into various dietary preferences. It’s not only suitable for those on a calorie deficit but can also be easily customized to fit vegetarian or vegan diets by swapping turkey for plant-based proteins and using vegetable broth. This flexibility makes it an ideal dish for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week.

Store your chili in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to five days, or freeze individual servings for a quick go-to meal on busy days. Reheating is simple, and the flavors often deepen, making leftovers even more enjoyable. Consider adding different toppings like avocado, Greek yogurt, or fresh cilantro to keep each meal exciting.

Perfect for Cozy Gatherings

Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or enjoying a family dinner, this Low-Calorie Turkey Chili is sure to impress. Serving the chili in a large pot with a variety of toppings on the side allows your guests to customize their bowls, making it a fun and interactive dining experience. Pair it with whole-grain cornbread or a green salad for a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.

Not only does this dish comfort and please, but it also aligns with health-conscious goals, letting you indulge without the guilt. This means you can enjoy delicious food while ensuring your gatherings are also nutritious, appealing to all your loved ones’ health preferences.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

Ingredients

1 lb lean ground turkey
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can diced tomatoes
1 bell pepper, diced
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

These ingredients will help elevate your Low-Calorie Turkey Chili.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious chili:

Cook the Turkey

In a large pot, cook the ground turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Vegetables

Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot. Sauté for 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Mix in the Rest

Add the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Simmer

Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Your chili is now ready to serve!

Tips for Perfect Chili

For the best flavor in your Low-Calorie Turkey Chili, consider cooking the spices with the turkey before adding other ingredients. This allows the spices to bloom and infuse their aromatic qualities into the meat, setting a delicious foundation for the chili. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different chili powders or add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat, depending on your preference.

Simmering the chili slowly will help meld all the flavors together. If time allows, consider making it a day in advance. The flavors will develop even better overnight, resulting in an unforgettable dish for your next meal. You can always adjust the consistency, too, by adding more chicken broth or letting it simmer longer if it’s too thick.

Serving Suggestions

This Low-Calorie Turkey Chili is incredibly versatile when it comes to toppings. Consider offering a selection such as diced avocado, chopped green onions, shredded cheese, or a dollop of Greek yogurt. These toppings not only enhance the flavors but also add different textures that make each bite exciting.

For a refreshing contrast, you can serve a light side salad alongside your chili. A simple mix of greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can balance the heartiness of the dish, providing a wholesome component to your meal. Don't forget to serve with whole-grain tortilla chips or crusty bread for dipping—it's an excellent way to enjoy every last bite!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this chili in advance?

Yes! This chili tastes even better the next day and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients listed are gluten-free.