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Quick Turkey Chili with a Secret Ingredient

This turkey chili is prepared using simmering and sautéing methods, featuring ground turkey as the main ingredient, enhanced by smoky and spicy seasonings. The final dish has a hearty, thick texture with a rich, flavorful broth and tender chunks of turkey and vegetables.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground turkey lean preferred
  • 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz can
  • 1 cup black beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels fresh or frozen
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional, for heat
  • 1 tbsp secret ingredient a small amount of smoky chipotle in adobo, blended
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it becomes aromatic.
  3. Increase the heat and add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spoon, cooking until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
  4. Stir in chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, and the secret smoky ingredient, mixing well to coat the meat and vegetables evenly.
  5. Add the diced tomatoes with their juice, stirring to combine everything and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
  6. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the drained black beans and corn kernels. Stir to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
  7. Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken slightly.
  8. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed to balance the smoky and spicy flavors.
  9. Once thickened and flavorful, ladle the hot chili into bowls and serve immediately, topped with your favorite garnishes if desired.