Sweet Potato Turkey Chili – EASY and Healthy

Introduction

Looking for a hearty, nutritious, and incredibly simple meal? This Sweet Potato Turkey Chili – EASY and Healthy is your answer. It combines lean ground turkey with sweet potatoes in a rich, spiced broth for a comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. This recipe is not only straightforward but also packs a powerful nutritional punch, making it a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a wholesome and satisfying meal.

Ingredients List

To make this delicious and healthy sweet potato turkey chili, you will need the following ingredients. Ensure everything is prepped and ready to go for a smooth cooking process.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 (28 ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes with juices
• 1 (14 ounce) can red kidney beans, drained
• 1 pound sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Toppings (optional): cheddar cheese, cilantro, avocado, sour cream/Greek yogurt, scallions

Timing

This recipe is designed for efficiency. From start to finish, you can have a pot of delicious chili ready in under an hour, making it an ideal choice for a busy schedule.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the tablespoon of olive oil to a large soup pot or Dutch oven and place it over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until it becomes soft and translucent.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey

Add the minced garlic and the pound of ground turkey to the pot. Cook for approximately 5 minutes, using your spoon to break up the meat into crumbles as it cooks. Continue stirring occasionally until the turkey is no longer pink on the outside.

Step 3: Combine the Remaining Ingredients

To the pot, add the chicken broth, the can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes (with their juices), the drained kidney beans, the diced sweet potatoes, chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, and the optional cayenne pepper for heat. Give everything a very good stir to combine all the ingredients evenly.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Increase the heat to bring the chili to a vigorous boil. Once it is bubbling, reduce the heat down to medium. Cover the pot with a lid, but leave it slightly ajar. Let the chili simmer for 15 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Taste the chili and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Ladle the hot chili into bowls and serve immediately with your choice of delicious toppings.

Print

Nutritional Information

This Sweet Potato Turkey Chili is not only delicious but also incredibly balanced. The approximate nutritional information per serving (based on 6 servings) is provided in the table below.

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320
Carbohydrates	30g
Fat	10g
Protein	30g
Sugar	7g
Fiber	6g
Cholesterol	70mg
Sodium	600mg

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

This recipe is already quite healthy, but you can make a few simple swaps to tailor it to specific dietary needs or preferences. For an even leaner option, use 99% lean ground turkey. To reduce sodium, opt for low-sodium chicken broth and no-salt-added canned tomatoes and beans. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for extra fiber and nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

This chili is a complete meal in a bowl, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides. A slice of crusty whole-grain bread or a side of cornbread is perfect for dipping. For a low-carb option, serve it over a bed of cauliflower rice. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette also provides a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich and hearty chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your chili turns out perfectly every time. Do not skip sautéing the onions, as this builds a crucial flavor base. Be careful not to overcook the ground turkey in the initial stage; you just want it to lose its pink color. Finally, ensure your sweet potatoes are diced into uniform, small pieces so they cook through at the same rate as the rest of the chili.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

This turkey sweet potato chili is fantastic for meal prep and tastes even better the next day. Allow the chili to cool completely before storing. It can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen it up.

Conclusion

This easy sweet potato turkey chili recipe is the ultimate healthy comfort food. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor and nutrition, and perfect for a family dinner or weekly meal prep. Give this healthy turkey chili a try tonight—your taste buds and your body will thank you!

FAQs

Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. After browning the turkey and onions on the stovetop (Steps 1 & 2), transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Can I use a different type of bean?

Yes, this recipe is very adaptable. Black beans, pinto beans, or even cannellini beans would be excellent substitutes for the kidney beans. Just ensure they are drained and rinsed before adding them to the pot.

How can I make this chili spicier?

To increase the heat level, you can add more cayenne pepper, include a diced jalapeño (with seeds for more heat) when you sauté the onions, or stir in a tablespoon of chipotle in adobo sauce for a smoky kick.

Is this turkey sweet potato chili freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes exceptionally well. Cool the chili completely and portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.