Easy Turkey Cranberry Chili Recipe  You’ll Love This Winter

As the chilly winter months roll in, there’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of Easy Turkey Cranberry Chili to bring comfort to your day. If you’re looking for a flavorful twist on a classic chili recipe, this combination of turkey and cranberries is sure to surprise and delight your taste buds. Not only is it a perfect way to enjoy healthy chili, but it also provides a burst of seasonal sweetness from the cranberries that beautifully balances the savory turkey. Whether you’re craving something simple for a cozy night in or need a crowd-pleasing dish for a winter gathering, this recipe has got you covered. Ready to cook up some comfort food that’s as satisfying as it is easy? Let’s dive into the details!

Easy Turkey Cranberry Chili Recipe You’ll Love This Winter

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb ground turkey – A lean protein that forms the heart of this chili providing a lighter yet hearty base.
• 1 cup fresh cranberries – They add a touch of sweetness and tartness elevating the chili with a festive flair.
• 1 medium onion – Diced it adds savory depth and richness to the flavor profile.
• 1 bell pepper – Chopped this veggie brings color, crunch, and a bit of freshness.
• 2 cloves garlic – Minced because no chili is complete without that aromatic kick!
• 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz – A classic chili staple, adding juiciness and a nice tomato base.
• 1 can kidney beans 15 oz, drained and rinsed – The beans provide a hearty texture and extra protein.
• 2 tablespoons chili powder – The key spice giving the chili its warm, signature flavor.
• 1 teaspoon cumin – A smoky earthy addition that deepens the chili’s flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika – For a subtle smokiness that complements the other spices.
• Salt and pepper – TSeason to your liking adjusting the amount for the perfect balance of flavor.
• 2 cups chicken broth – To create a flavorful comforting base for the chili.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the vegetables and turkey to perfection.

Tips for Success:

• Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are ideal for their bright tart flavor, but if you can’t find them, frozen cranberries will work just as well—just thaw them first.
• Bean Options: Kidney beans are a traditional choice but feel free to swap them for black beans or pinto beans for a different twist.
• Adjust Spices: If you like a spicier kick add some cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to amp up the heat.

Instructions

 

• Prepare the vegetables: Start by dicing the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. These aromatics will provide the base for your chili’s flavor.
• Cook the turkey: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, stirring occasionally to crumble the meat, until it’s fully browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
• Sauté the vegetables: Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot with the turkey. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables soften and the garlic becomes fragrant.
• Add the cranberries and spices: Toss in the fresh cranberries, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Stir everything together to coat the turkey and veggies with the spices. The cranberries will start to burst, releasing their juicy goodness into the mix.
• Add the tomatoes, beans, and broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice), kidney beans, and chicken broth. Stir to combine, bringing everything to a simmer.
• Simmer the chili: Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cranberries to break down further, infusing the chili with their tart sweetness.
• Taste and refine: Give the chili a taste before serving, and feel free to tweak the seasoning to suit your preference, whether it’s adding more salt, pepper, or spices for extra depth.

Keyword Easy Chili, Healthy Chili, Turkey Cranberry Chili Recipe

1. Key Benefits

This Easy Turkey Cranberry Chili recipe is a game-changer when it comes to comfort food. Not only does it deliver big on flavor, but it also offers a healthy alternative to traditional chili without sacrificing taste. Here’s why this dish deserves a spot in your winter meal rotation:

• Healthy & Lean: Using ground turkey in place of traditional beef makes this chili a leaner option without compromising on richness. It’s a great way to enjoy a hearty meal without the extra calories.
  
• Seasonal Sweetness: The addition of cranberries gives this chili a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the savory flavors. It’s the perfect way to incorporate a bit of festive flair into your everyday meals.
  
• Comfort in a Bowl: With the colder weather settling in, nothing beats a warm, cozy bowl of chili. This recipe is the ultimate comfort food, ideal for unwinding after a long day or gathering with loved ones.
  
• Easy to Prepare: One of the best things about this turkey cranberry chili is how simple it is to make. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, the recipe comes together quickly, requiring minimal prep time and fuss.
  
• Versatile & Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level, add extra veggies, or even swap the turkey for a different protein. This chili can easily be tailored to suit your tastes or dietary preferences.
  

With these benefits, this turkey cranberry chili is not just a delicious meal – it’s a recipe that brings both warmth and health to your winter table. Ready to get started? Let’s move on to the ingredients!

2. Ingredients

Creating this Easy Turkey Cranberry Chili is a breeze with just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this delicious, comforting dish to life:

• 1 lb ground turkey – A lean protein that forms the heart of this chili, providing a lighter yet hearty base.
• 1 cup fresh cranberries – They add a touch of sweetness and tartness, elevating the chili with a festive flair.
• 1 medium onion – Diced, it adds savory depth and richness to the flavor profile.
• 1 bell pepper – Chopped, this veggie brings color, crunch, and a bit of freshness.
• 2 cloves garlic – Minced, because no chili is complete without that aromatic kick!
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz) – A classic chili staple, adding juiciness and a nice tomato base.
• 1 can kidney beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed – The beans provide a hearty texture and extra protein.
• 2 tablespoons chili powder – The key spice, giving the chili its warm, signature flavor.
• 1 teaspoon cumin – A smoky, earthy addition that deepens the chili’s flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika – For a subtle smokiness that complements the other spices.
• Salt and pepper – TSeason to your liking, adjusting the amount for the perfect balance of flavor.
• 2 cups chicken broth – To create a flavorful, comforting base for the chili.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the vegetables and turkey to perfection.

Tips for Success:

• Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are ideal for their bright, tart flavor, but if you can’t find them, frozen cranberries will work just as well—just thaw them first.
• Bean Options: Kidney beans are a traditional choice, but feel free to swap them for black beans or pinto beans for a different twist.
• Adjust Spices: If you like a spicier kick, add some cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to amp up the heat.

With these simple yet flavorful ingredients, you’re all set to create a healthy turkey cranberry chili that’s both comforting and satisfying. Let’s move on to the next step—cooking it all together!

3. Instructions

Now that we’ve gathered all the ingredients, it’s time to bring everything together and create your Easy Turkey Cranberry Chili! Follow these simple steps to cook up a warm and hearty bowl of chili that’s perfect for chilly days.

1. Prepare the vegetables: Start by dicing the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. These aromatics will provide the base for your chili’s flavor.
2. Cook the turkey: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, stirring occasionally to crumble the meat, until it’s fully browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Sauté the vegetables: Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot with the turkey. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables soften and the garlic becomes fragrant.
4. Add the cranberries and spices: Toss in the fresh cranberries, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Stir everything together to coat the turkey and veggies with the spices. The cranberries will start to burst, releasing their juicy goodness into the mix.
5. Add the tomatoes, beans, and broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice), kidney beans, and chicken broth. Stir to combine, bringing everything to a simmer.
6. Simmer the chili: Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cranberries to break down further, infusing the chili with their tart sweetness.
7. Taste and refine: Give the chili a taste before serving, and feel free to tweak the seasoning to suit your preference, whether it’s adding more salt, pepper, or spices for extra depth.

Now, your turkey cranberry chili is ready to be served! The combination of turkey and cranberries creates a deliciously unique twist on traditional chili, offering both a savory and slightly sweet flavor profile. Enjoy!

4. Cooking Tips & Variations

Making the perfect Easy Turkey Cranberry Chili is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some handy tips and variations to take your chili to the next level!

• Customize the Spice Level: If you love a bit of heat, feel free to add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a milder version, skip the spicy additions and focus on the warmth from the chili powder and cumin.
  
• Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: Ground turkey is the star of this recipe, but you can easily swap it with ground chicken for a similar lean protein option. It’ll still offer that savory richness you crave.
  
• Try Different Beans: While kidney beans provide a hearty texture, you can swap them for black beans, pinto beans, or white beans to create a fresh variation. Each bean brings its own unique flavor and consistency, giving you the freedom to adjust the dish to your taste preferences.
  
• Fresh or Frozen Cranberries?: Fresh cranberries work wonderfully in this chili, but frozen cranberries can be just as good. Just be sure to thaw them first and add them as directed in the recipe for that burst of tartness.
  
• Make It Vegetarian: To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the turkey and replace it with extra beans or lentils. The cranberries still shine as a sweet and tart addition.
  
• Slow Cooker or Instant Pot: If you’re short on time, use a slow cooker or Instant Pot. Simply add all ingredients and cook on low in the slow cooker for 6-7 hours, or use the Instant Pot’s pressure cooking function for a quicker 25-minute meal.
  

These tips and variations will help you customize your turkey cranberry chili and make it truly your own. Feel free to get creative and adjust based on your preferences—there’s no wrong way to enjoy this comforting dish!

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Serving Suggestions for Your Easy Turkey Cranberry Chili

Once your turkey cranberry chili is ready, it’s time to serve and enjoy the flavors! Here are a few ideas to elevate your chili and make it even more satisfying:

• Top with Fresh Herbs: Finish your chili with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro or parsley. These herbs add a vibrant touch and give your dish a refreshing contrast to the rich chili flavor.
  
• Pair with Cornbread: Serve your chili alongside a warm slice of cornbread for a comforting, classic combo. The sweet, crumbly texture of the cornbread complements the savory chili perfectly.
  
• Add a Dollop of Sour Cream: For an extra creamy touch, swirl some sour cream or Greek yogurt into the chili. This adds a cool contrast to the heat and spices.
  
• Serve Over Rice: If you want to stretch the meal a little further, serve the chili over a bed of fluffy rice. The rice soaks up the delicious broth, making each bite even more satisfying.
  
• Pair with Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are a great side to add some texture. You can even use them to scoop up the chili for a fun, interactive meal.
  
• Cheese It Up: Sprinkle some shredded cheese on top, like cheddar or Monterey Jack, for added richness and flavor. Melted cheese perfectly balances the chili’s spices.
  

These serving suggestions will not only make your turkey cranberry chili even more delicious but also create a fun and customizable experience for you and your guests. Enjoy!

Conclusion

This Easy Turkey Cranberry Chili is the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly day, combining lean turkey, tart cranberries, and a blend of spices that create a unique, comforting flavor. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is simple, healthy, and packed with festive flair.

Here are a few key takeaways to make your chili even better:

• Customize to Your Taste: Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasonings, add a little extra heat, or swap beans to suit your preferences.
• Make it Ahead: The chili only gets better as the flavors meld together, making it an ideal make-ahead meal.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Store any extras in the fridge or freezer for a quick meal later in the week.

Whether you’re enjoying it fresh or savoring it as leftovers, this turkey cranberry chili is sure to become a go-to comfort food. Enjoy every savory, slightly sweet bite!

FAQs: Your Easy Turkey Cranberry Chili Questions Answered

Certainly! Simply swap the ground turkey for a plant-based protein like lentils, crumbled tofu, or even extra beans. This will still provide a hearty, satisfying meal while keeping it vegetarian.