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Smoky Chipotle Turkey Chili

This turkey chili is made using ground turkey simmered with a combination of aromatic spices, includes chipotle peppers for smoky heat, and is cooked until thick and hearty. It features a rich, chunky texture with a deep, smoky red appearance, perfect for spooning over rice or with cornbread.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground turkey preferably lean
  • 1 large onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cans diced tomatoes 14.5 oz each
  • 1 can black beans drained and rinsed, 15 oz
  • 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon oregano
  • 2 cups chicken broth for simmering
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add a splash of oil, then cook the chopped onion, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for another minute until it releases a fragrant aroma.
  3. Increase the heat slightly and add the ground turkey to the pot. Break it apart with the spoon and cook until browned all over, about 7-8 minutes.
  4. Stir in the chopped chipotle peppers, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Cook for 1-2 minutes more, allowing the spices to become fragrant and coat the meat evenly.
  5. Add the diced tomatoes along with their juices, stirring to combine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to develop flavor.
  6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the chili to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover partially, and let it simmer for 20 minutes to meld all the flavors and thicken slightly.
  7. Stir in the drained black beans and cook uncovered for another 5 minutes, allowing the chili to thicken further and the flavors to deepen.
  8. Taste the chili and season with salt and pepper as needed, balancing the smoky heat with a pinch of salt.
  9. Once the chili has thickened to your liking and the flavors are well combined, turn off the heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
  10. Spoon the hearty, smoky chili into bowls, garnish if desired, and enjoy its rich, layered flavors with rice, cornbread, or alone.

Notes

Adjust the amount of chipotle peppers for more or less smoky heat. Letting the chili sit for a few minutes before serving enhances the flavors.