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When the weather turns chilly and the days grow shorter, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of chili to bring comfort and satisfaction. This Spicy Comfort Turkey Chili is not just any ordinary chili; it’s a delightful combination of rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and a kick of spice that makes it a perfect dish for gatherings, meal prep, or just a quiet night in. Ground turkey is the star of this recipe, offering a lighter alternative to traditional chili meats while still delivering on taste and texture.

Hearty Turkey Chili with Black Beans

Warm up your chilly evenings with this Spicy Comfort Turkey Chili, a delicious and satisfying dish that's perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. Made with lean ground turkey, colorful vegetables, and a punch of spices, this recipe is not only comforting but also packed with nutritional benefits. Customize your heat level and enjoy with toppings like shredded cheese or avocado. Embrace the warmth of homemade chili and share it with loved ones for a delightful meal experience.
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Ingredients
  

1 lb ground turkey

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)

1 can (6 oz) tomato paste

2 cups chicken broth

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 tablespoons chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon dried oregano

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional toppings: Shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, diced avocado

Instructions
 

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften. Then, incorporate the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

    Brown the Turkey: Introduce the ground turkey to the pot. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Continue cooking for approximately 6-7 minutes or until the turkey is browned and fully cooked. If there is excess fat, drain it off.

      Add the Spices: Sprinkle the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper over the turkey mixture. Stir well to fully coat the meat and vegetables with the spices. Allow it to cook for another 2 minutes to deepen the flavors.

        Incorporate the Beans and Tomatoes: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes along with their juices, the tomato paste, and the chicken broth. Gently stir in the black beans. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer.

          Simmer: Cover the pot and let the chili simmer for 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to help the flavors meld. The chili is done when it has thickened to your desired consistency.

            Adjust Seasoning: After simmering, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more cayenne if you prefer more heat or additional salt for flavor enhancement.

              Serve: Ladle the hearty turkey chili into bowls. Offer a selection of toppings such as shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, fresh chopped green onions, or creamy avocado.

                Enjoy: Serve the chili hot, ideally paired with comfort sides like cornbread or crispy tortilla chips to complete your cozy meal!

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6