This Sweet Potato Turkey Chili is a hearty dish packed with flavor! Loaded with lean ground turkey and sweet potatoes, it’s both comforting and healthy.
Plus, it cooks up in one pot, so cleanup is a breeze! I love serving it with a dollop of yogurt on top—so good! You might find yourself asking for seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the star protein in the chili. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground chicken works beautifully too. For a meatless version, consider swapping it for lentils or mushrooms!
Sweet Potatoes: They add a lovely sweetness and texture. If you don’t have sweet potatoes, butternut squash or regular potatoes can be good substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Black Beans: These add a nice protein boost. If you prefer, you could swap them for kidney beans or pinto beans based on your taste preference or what you have on hand.
Kale or Spinach: I love adding greens for extra nutrients! If you can’t find kale, spinach or any leafy greens will work. Even zucchini or bell peppers can add a nice touch, just chop them small.
How Do I Cook Ground Turkey Perfectly?
Cooking the turkey correctly is key for a tasty chili. Start by heating your pot and adding oil before browning the turkey. Here’s how to do it:
- Use medium heat to prevent burning. Break the turkey up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Allow the turkey to brown nicely; this adds a depth of flavor. It should take around 6-8 minutes.
- Don’t rush! Let it develop a nice color without stirring it constantly.
Following these steps helps build the base of flavor in your chili. Enjoy cooking!
Sweet Potato Turkey Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups chopped kale or spinach leaves, stems removed
- Optional toppings: plain Greek yogurt or sour cream, fresh cilantro leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 40 minutes in total for cooking and simmering, making it a quick and satisfying meal that you can whip up on a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until it’s softened and translucent. This will create a flavorful base for your chili!
2. Add Garlic and Turkey:
Next, add minced garlic and let it cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Then, add the ground turkey to the pot. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through—this should take about 6-8 minutes.
3. Combine Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add all the wonderful flavors! Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, diced tomatoes (with their juices), black beans, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to combine.
4. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for about 25-30 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. This is when the flavors will meld beautifully!
5. Add the Greens:
Stir in the chopped kale or spinach, cover the pot again, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the greens are wilted. This adds a lovely color and extra nutrition to the dish!
6. Final Touches:
Taste your chili and adjust the seasonings as necessary to suit your preference. Don’t be shy—this is your creation!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the chili hot in bowls, and if desired, top each serving with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor. Enjoy every comforting bite of your Sweet Potato Turkey Chili!
Can I Use Different Types of Ground Meat?
Absolutely! While ground turkey gives this chili a lean profile, you can also use ground chicken, beef, or even pork. Just remember that the cooking time might vary slightly based on fat content.
Can I Substitute the Sweet Potatoes?
Yes! If you don’t have sweet potatoes, you can use butternut squash, regular potatoes, or even carrots for a similar texture and sweetness. Adjust the cooking time if needed to ensure they are tender.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make this chili vegetarian, swap the ground turkey for 1.5 cups of cooked lentils or a mix of black beans and chickpeas. You can also add more diced vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!
