Healthy Turkey Sweet Potato Chili – A Flavorful, Wholesome Dinner
If you’re in the mood for something hearty, comforting, and healthy, look no further than this Turkey Sweet Potato Chili. This dish combines lean ground turkey with the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, making it the perfect meal to warm you up on a cold day. Plus, it’s packed with fiber, protein, and plenty of flavor. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or meal prepping for the week, this turkey chili is sure to satisfy.
Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients Needed
Here’s everything you’ll need for this delicious turkey sweet potato chili:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (per serving) |
|---|---|---|
| Ground turkey | 1 lb (450g) | 200 |
| Sweet potatoes | 2 medium | 200 |
| Onion | 1 large, chopped | 45 |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced | 12 |
| Diced tomatoes (canned) | 1 can (14.5 oz) | 70 |
| Black beans (canned) | 1 can (15 oz) | 100 |
| Red bell pepper | 1, chopped | 25 |
| Chili powder | 1 tbsp | 6 |
| Cumin | 1 tsp | 6 |
| Paprika | 1 tsp | 6 |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | 120 |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups | 15 |
| Salt | 1 tsp | 0 |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | 0 |
Cooking Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, follow these simple steps to prepare your Turkey Sweet Potato Chili:
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and cube the sweet potatoes into small bite-sized chunks. You can roast them for extra flavor or simply add them to the chili directly.
- Cook the Ground Turkey: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove any excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Season the Chili: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Let the spices bloom for about 1 minute to release their flavor.
- Add the Remaining Ingredients: Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir to combine. Finally, add the cubed sweet potatoes and bring the chili to a simmer.
- Simmer the Chili: Cover the pot and let the chili simmer for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender and the chili has thickened. You can add a little more chicken broth if you prefer a thinner consistency.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the chili is ready, give it a final stir and serve hot. Garnish with fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Recipe Notes
- Spice Level: If you like your chili with a bit of heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño to the pot.
- Meat Alternatives: If you don’t eat turkey, you can easily substitute with lean ground beef or chicken for a different flavor profile.
- Slow Cooker Option: You can also make this chili in a slow cooker. Simply brown the turkey and sauté the veggies, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Toppings: For extra flavor, try topping the chili with shredded cheese, avocado slices, or a sprinkle of green onions.
Time and Serving
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Serves: 4-6 servings
Storage
Leftovers? No problem! This Turkey Sweet Potato Chili stores well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Simply store it in an airtight container and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of broth to loosen it up if it thickens too much.
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 330 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fiber | 7g |
| Sugars | 9g |
| Fat | 11g |
| Sodium | 450mg |
[cal_calc]
Health Benefits of Turkey Sweet Potato Chili
- High in Protein: Ground turkey is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps build muscle and supports immune health.
- Rich in Fiber: Sweet potatoes and black beans provide a good amount of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes heart health.
- Packed with Vitamins and Minerals: Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin A, which supports eye health, while the black beans are a great source of iron and folate.
- Low in Fat: This chili is relatively low in fat, especially when made with lean turkey, making it a great option for those watching their fat intake.
Extra Tips to Make the Recipe Perfect
- Chop the Sweet Potatoes Evenly: To ensure the sweet potatoes cook evenly, make sure to chop them into uniform cubes.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer. For a thinner chili, add more broth or water.
- Add Extra Veggies: You can add other vegetables like carrots or zucchini to this chili for added nutrition and texture.
How to Serve
This Turkey Sweet Potato Chili is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with a side of cornbread, a fresh salad, or even some tortilla chips for crunch. For a heartier meal, serve it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream on top.
Enjoy this flavorful chili with a delicious beef lombardi casserole for a filling meal.
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Spoon or spatula for stirring
- Knife and cutting board for chopping vegetables
- Can opener (for the beans and tomatoes)
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! To make this chili vegan, substitute the ground turkey with lentils or a plant-based protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and ensure the toppings are dairy-free.
2. Can I add other vegetables to the chili?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! This chili actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. You can make it a day ahead and store it in the fridge until ready to serve.
4. Is this chili spicy?
The recipe is mild, but you can increase the spice level by adding more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or chopped jalapeños to suit your taste.
5. Can I freeze this chili?
Yes, this chili freezes really well. Just allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep for up to 3 months.
Final Thoughts
This Turkey Sweet Potato Chili is the perfect comfort food: hearty, healthy, and packed with flavor. It’s a wonderful choice for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping, or even serving at a cozy gathering with family and friends. Plus, it’s loaded with nutrients, making it a guilt-free, satisfying meal. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the warmth and satisfaction it brings to your table!
