Turkey Sweet Potato Chili (Printable Version)

Savory turkey, sweet potatoes, and beans simmered in rich spices for a comforting, satisfying main meal.

# What You'll Need:

→ Meats

01 - 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced

→ Vegetables

02 - 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
03 - 1 large yellow onion, diced
04 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
07 - 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
08 - 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

→ Liquids

09 - 2 cups low-sodium chicken or turkey broth

→ Spices and Herbs

10 - 2 tablespoons chili powder
11 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
12 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
13 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
14 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional, to taste
15 - 1 teaspoon salt
16 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

→ Oils

17 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

→ Garnishes (optional)

18 - Fresh cilantro, chopped
19 - Sliced green onions
20 - Lime wedges
21 - Diced avocado

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and red bell pepper, and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables soften.
02 - Stir in minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
03 - Add diced sweet potatoes, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Stir to ensure vegetables are well coated with spices.
04 - Pour in diced tomatoes with juices, black beans, kidney beans, and chicken or turkey broth. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
05 - Cover the pot and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sweet potatoes become fork-tender.
06 - Stir in the cooked turkey. Let simmer uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
07 - Taste and adjust seasonings as necessary, adding more salt or spices to preference.
08 - Serve hot, topped with fresh cilantro, green onions, lime wedges, or diced avocado if desired.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Easy way to use up leftover turkey and sweet potatoes
  • Balanced with sweet savory smoky and tangy flavors
  • Naturally gluten free and dairy free
  • Feeds a crowd or provides easy lunches for the week
02 -
  • Packed with fiber and protein
  • Can be frozen in portions for busy days
  • Easily customizable with homemade or store bought turkey
03 -
  • Do not rush the sauté step. The slow buildup of flavor at the start makes a huge difference.
  • Dice sweet potatoes bite sized. Use a sharp knife for even pieces so they cook at the same rate.
  • Be sure to taste right before serving. I sometimes add a touch more lime for brightness. This dish gets better the next day.