Easy Turkey Veggie Chili (Stovetop Recipe!)
I make this healthy turkey veggie chili year-round because it’s that easy. It comes together in about 45 minutes on the stovetop, uses mostly pantry and freezer staples, and makes the best leftovers for busy weeknights. This is one of those one pan dinners I can throw together and that’s exactly why it stays in my rotation.
Why You Will Love This Dinner
- Tastes even better the next day
- Ready in about 45 minutes on the stovetop
- Made with simple pantry and freezer staples
- High-protein and veggie-packed
- Great for meal prep and freezer friendly
- Customizable based on what you have on hand
Ingredients
(See recipe card below for exact amounts.)
Corn – Adds a touch of sweetness and extra texture (fresh, frozen, or canned all work).
Lean ground turkey – A lighter option that still gives you plenty of protein and flavor.
Canned diced tomatoes & Crushed Tomatoes – Fire-roasted tomatoes add amazing depth of flavor, but regular diced tomatoes work great too.
Kidney beans – Classic chili texture and added fiber.
Tomato paste – Deepens the flavor. I love keeping a tube in the fridge so I can use just what I need.
Yellow onion – Adds sweetness and base flavor.
Garlic – Essential for that savory chili foundation.
Green bell pepper – Adds texture and subtle sweetness.
Cumin – Warm, earthy spice that gives chili its signature flavor.
Chili powder – Brings the heat and depth.
Apple cider vinegar – Just a splash brightens and balances the whole pot.
Veggies: Frozen peas & corn
Substitutions and Variations
This chili is incredibly flexible.
Protein swaps
- Ground chicken instead of turkey
- Ground beef for a more traditional flavor
- Make it vegetarian by skipping the meat and adding an extra can of beans
Vegetable additions
- Frozen vegetable blends (corn, carrots, green beans)
- Spinach or kale stirred in at the end
- Zucchini or mushrooms
- Extra bell peppers
Bean options
- Black beans
- Pinto beans
- White beans
Heat level
- Add diced jalapeño
- Sprinkle in red pepper flakes
- Use hot chili powder
Is turkey chili healthy?
*Refraining from saying abso-tootley* but... yes! Chili is full of protein, tons of fiber ( HELLO BEANS), and anti-oxidants from added vegetables.
How to make Turkey Veggie Chili
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Sauté the onion and green bell pepper until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Stir in tomato paste, cumin, and chili powder. Cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
- Add diced tomatoes, beans, corn, peas and bone broth. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Finish with a splash of apple cider vinegar. Taste and adjust salt or spices as needed.
Tips and Notes
Chili always tastes better after it sits.
Don’t skip sautéing the tomato paste, it makes a big difference in flavor.
If your chili feels too thick, add a splash more broth.
If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered a little longer.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this in advance?
Yes! It’s even better the next day.
Can I freeze turkey chili?
Absolutely. Let it cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Is this chili spicy?
It’s mild to medium depending on your chili powder. Easily adjustable.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes. Brown the turkey and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours.
Serving Suggestions
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese
- Add sliced avocado
- Greek yogurt or sour cream
- Fresh cilantro
- Serve with cornbread or tortilla chips
- Spoon over a baked sweet potato
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 60-second intervals, stirring between each. Add a splash of broth if needed to loosen it up.
To freeze, portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
I hope you are Over the Spoon for this recipe!
It is my goal to inspire you to create healthy and easy meals.
It would mean the world if you could leave a review or a star rating below!
Healthy Turkey Veggie Chili
Ingredients
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 pounds ground turkey
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 2½ tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 15 oz can kidney beans
- 1 15 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 15 oz can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1½ tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- In a large pan, saute onion, bell pepper, and garlic in oil with a pinch of salt on medium heat for about 5 minutes.
- Add ground turkey and cook until brown, about 5 minutes.
- Add cumin,chili powder, and oregano then stir thoroughly.
- Stir in tomato paste, tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, corn, peas and broth, then bring to a boil.
- Reduce to simmer and simmer for 20 - 25 minutes.
- Stir in apple cider vinegar, add salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve in bowls, topped with favorite toppings!
