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Hearty High Protein Turkey and Bean Chili

Close-up of a white bowl filled with hearty, rich high protein chili featuring ground meat and visible kidney beans.
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This hearty high protein chili recipe uses lean ground turkey and multiple beans to create a filling, flavorful meal perfect for weeknight dinners or batch cooking.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1.5 pounds lean ground turkey (93% lean or higher)
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute until the spices are fragrant.
  4. Add the rinsed beans, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
  5. Season with salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  6. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot partially, and let the chili simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. For deeper flavor, simmer for up to 1 hour.
  7. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before serving.

Notes

  • For a low carb chili option, reduce the amount of beans or substitute with extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
  • This recipe is excellent for meal prep; it freezes well for up to three months.
  • Serve with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, or chopped avocado for added healthy fats.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbycarla.com/high-protein-chili-recipe/