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White Bean Turkey Chili Recipe

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4.2 from 39 reviews

This hearty White Bean Turkey Chili is a flavorful and healthy twist on traditional chili, packed with tender shredded turkey, creamy cannellini beans, and a blend of aromatic spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner, it simmers gently on the stovetop and finishes with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy touch. Topped with fresh cilantro, avocado, and shredded cheese, this chili is both comforting and nutritious.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons minced garlic
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 1 cup chopped cilantro
  • 3-4 cups shredded turkey
  • 3 (14 oz) cans cannellini beans or white northern beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15 oz) can corn
  • 2 (4.5 oz) cans diced green chiles
  • 5 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt

Spices

  • ½ tablespoon cumin
  • ½ tablespoon oregano
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Optional Toppings

  • Cilantro
  • Avocado
  • Shredded cheese
  • Jalapeños
  • Green onion

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large stock pot over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the chopped cilantro, cooking for an additional minute to release its flavor.
  2. Add Remaining Ingredients: Incorporate the shredded turkey, drained cannellini beans, corn, diced green chiles, chicken broth, cumin, oregano, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper into the pot. Stir everything well to combine.
  3. Simmer Chili: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Allow it to cook for 25 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
  4. Mash Beans: After 25 minutes, use a potato masher to lightly mash some of the beans about 3-4 times to thicken the chili while still keeping a hearty texture.
  5. Final Simmer: Let the chili simmer uncovered for an additional 5 minutes to thicken further. Then remove the pot from heat and stir in the Greek yogurt thoroughly to add creaminess without curdling.
  6. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your choice of optional garnishes such as fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, shredded cheese, jalapeños, or green onions for extra flavor and texture.

Notes

  • For a spicier chili, increase the amount of chili powder or add diced jalapeños directly into the chili during cooking.
  • If you prefer a smoother chili, mash more beans or use an immersion blender for a few seconds before adding the yogurt.
  • Use leftover roasted turkey or rotisserie chicken as a convenient protein substitute.
  • Greek yogurt is used instead of sour cream for a healthier, protein-rich topping.
  • This chili can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.