Go Back

Turkey Green Chili

A bright and comforting turkey green chili that balances lean protein with roasted green chiles and fresh cilantro for a satisfying and healthier twist on traditional chili.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Chili
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing
  • 1 pound lean ground turkey (93/7 or 99/1) Choose based on desired leanness
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped About 1 cup
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced For flavor
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika Optional for depth
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt Plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Green Base
  • 3 cups roasted green chiles, chopped About 6-8 poblano peppers or 2 (4.5 oz) cans diced green chiles
  • 1 cup salsa verde or tomatillo puree
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 can white beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed Optional, for creaminess and fiber
Finishing & Garnishes
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro For garnish
  • 1 lime Juice of For brightness
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream Optional for serving
  • to taste shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese, avocado slices, and tortilla chips For serving

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Roast poblano peppers under a broiler or over a gas flame until charred on all sides, about 8 to 12 minutes. Place in a bowl covered with plastic wrap for 10 minutes, then peel, seed, and chop.
Sauté Aromatics and Brown Turkey
  1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 4 to 6 minutes until soft and translucent.
  2. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add ground turkey and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, breaking up with a spoon, until no pink remains and the meat begins to brown in spots.
Build the Flavor
  1. Stir in cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook 1 minute until spices are aromatic.
Add Green Base
  1. Add chopped roasted green chiles, salsa verde, drained white beans (if using), and broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Simmer and Meld Flavors
  1. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until chili thickens slightly and flavors meld.
  2. If too thick, add up to 1/2 cup additional broth.
Adjust Texture and Finish
  1. For a creamier texture, remove 1 cup of the chili, mash or puree it, and stir back in.
  2. Stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Serve Warm
  1. Ladle into bowls and top with a dollop of Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, avocado, and tortilla chips as desired.

Notes

Use roasted poblanos for best flavor. For a vegetarian version, swap turkey for lentils and use vegetable broth. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.