Smoky Chipotle Turkey Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines lean ground turkey with the bold smokiness of chipotle peppers. It’s packed with beans, tomatoes, and spices that give it a cozy, warming vibe perfect for chilly days. The smoky heat hits just right without overpowering, making each spoonful satisfying and comforting.
I love making this chili when I want something filling but still a little lighter than traditional beef chili. The chipotle peppers add a nice smoky kick that feels like a hug in a bowl. One tip I have is to let it simmer for a good while so all those flavors really come together and deepen — that little wait makes all the difference.
My favorite way to enjoy this chili is topped with a sprinkle of shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and some fresh cilantro. Serving it with warm cornbread or over a bed of rice turns it into a perfect meal that everyone usually gobbles up fast. It’s the kind of recipe I’m happy to share because it always feels like a little celebration around the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This lean protein keeps the chili lighter. If you want a richer flavor, ground chicken or lean ground beef work well too.
Chipotle Peppers in Adobo: These give smoky heat and a bit of tang. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with one pepper or swap in smoked paprika for less heat.
Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: They add a subtle smoky depth. If unavailable, regular canned diced tomatoes are a fine substitute but will be less smoky.
Black Beans and Corn: These add texture and a touch of sweetness. Use canned or frozen for convenience. Pinto or kidney beans can replace black beans.
How Do You Build Maximum Flavor in Chili?
Layering flavors is key in this chili. Here’s how:
- Start by sautéing onions and garlic until soft and fragrant to form a flavor base.
- Brown the ground turkey well to add depth—don’t rush this step.
- Add peppers, chipotle, and tomato paste, cooking briefly to concentrate their flavors.
- Simmer the chili uncovered to thicken and let flavors meld. This slow melding step really brings everything together.
Patience pays off—simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, and taste toward the end to adjust seasoning. This method ensures a rich and balanced chili.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven – perfect for cooking chili evenly and letting it simmer without burning.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – great for stirring without scratching your pot.
- Chef’s knife – sharp and handy for dicing onions, peppers, and garlic quickly.
- Cutting board – gives you a safe surface for chopping all your veggies and herbs.
- Measuring spoons and cups – help you get the spices and liquids just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground turkey for ground chicken or lean beef to change up the protein and flavor.
- Add diced sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a touch of natural sweetness and extra texture.
- Stir in a handful of chopped fresh spinach or kale near the end for added greens and nutrients.
- Try topping with crumbled queso fresco or Monterey Jack cheese instead of cheddar for a milder, creamy finish.
How to Make Smoky Chipotle Turkey Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chili:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from chipotle peppers can)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
For Serving (Optional):
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheddar cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 40 minutes total including simmering. The simmering time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the chili to thicken.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Cook the Turkey and Peppers:
Add the ground turkey to the pot. Use a spoon to break it up, cooking until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Stir in the diced red and yellow bell peppers and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
3. Add Flavorful Ingredients:
Mix in the minced chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, and tomato paste. Stir well to coat everything and cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavors.
4. Build the Chili Base:
Add the fire-roasted diced tomatoes (with juices), black beans, corn, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine everything evenly.
5. Simmer Your Chili:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the chili to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat to keep it at a slow simmer and cook uncovered for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to help the flavors meld together.
6. Final Touches and Serving:
Give it a taste and adjust salt or seasoning if needed. Serve the chili hot, topped with chopped fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese if you like.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Turkey in This Chili?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the turkey before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave. This helps it cook evenly and prevents excess moisture in the chili.
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier or Milder?
To increase heat, add an extra chipotle pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a milder version, reduce the chipotle peppers to one or omit the adobo sauce. You can also balance spiciness by serving with sour cream or cheese.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Chili?
Let the chili cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I Freeze Smoky Chipotle Turkey Chili?
Absolutely! Cool the chili completely and freeze in portion-sized containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove.
