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Turkey Sweet Potato Chili

Turkey Sweet Potato Chili

Turkey Sweet Potato Chili is a hearty and wholesome dish combining lean ground turkey, tender sweet potatoes, and a blend of warming spices. This nutritious chili offers a balanced mix of protein, fiber, and vitamins, delivering comforting bold flavors without heaviness. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep, it’s a versatile and satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein & Vegetables

  • 1 lb lean ground turkey
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced into bite-sized cubes
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 (15 oz) can kidney or black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)

Spices & Seasonings

  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Liquids & Garnishes

  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional garnishes: plain Greek yogurt or sour cream, crushed tortilla chips or toasted pepitas

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Dice your sweet potatoes into bite-sized cubes, finely chop the onion and garlic, and gather all spices ready for use. Having ingredients prepped in advance ensures a smooth cooking process.
  2. Brown the Ground Turkey: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and break it up with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink and slightly browned to develop deeper flavor.
  3. Sauté Aromatics and Spices: Add the chopped onions and garlic to the browned turkey. Cook until softened and fragrant. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper, toasting the spices briefly to enhance their aroma.
  4. Add Sweet Potatoes and Liquids: Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, canned diced tomatoes, beans if using, and chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  5. Simmer Until Tender: Reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender and the flavors meld beautifully together.
  6. Finish and Serve: Taste the chili and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional spices as desired. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley and optional toppings before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh spices for the most vibrant flavor.
  • Don’t skip browning the turkey to add caramelized depth.
  • Cut sweet potatoes into uniform pieces for even cooking.
  • Simmer gently on low heat to allow flavors to meld and sweet potatoes to soften perfectly.
  • Customize seasoning with a splash of lime juice or a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor layers.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey chili, sweet potato chili, healthy chili recipe, gluten free chili, comfort food, easy dinner