High Protein Turkey Chili (Comfort In A Tasty Bowl!)

You know why I love this high protein turkey chili recipe ? It’s the fact that you get a hearty, nutritious meal without the hassle of chopping endless vegetables (thanks to the sneaky veggie sauce!).

That’s right. It’s loaded with nearly 2 pounds of hidden vegetables, making it a perfect way to get in extra nutrients without your picky eaters noticing. It’s also super easy to prepare—no knife work required, thanks to frozen vegetables and a blender.

Whether you’re aiming to boost your protein intake or just want a comforting bowl of chili that’s both healthy and flavorful, this recipe hits all the marks. 

Why This High Protein Turkey Chili Is a Great Choice

This high protein turkey chili isn’t just about flavor (although it packs that big time); it’s about making your meals more nutritious with minimal effort. The secret is the hidden veggie sauce, which adds nearly 2 pounds of vegetables without overwhelming the palate.

Using extra lean ground turkey keeps the dish light while still providing plenty of protein, making it ideal for those looking to build muscle or maintain a healthy weight. The recipe is flexible—use non-alcoholic beer or broth to deglaze, and you can adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. 

Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for batch cooking, saving you time and effort during busy weekdays. The added vegetables boost fiber and nutrients, supporting digestion and overall health. Whether you’re trying to eat more vegetables or just want a satisfying, high-protein meal, this chili checks all the boxes.

Ingredients List For Chilli

• 1 lb extra lean ground turkey (99%)
• 2 packets chili seasoning
• 2 cans chili beans (kidney & pinto in chili sauce)
• 28 oz crushed fire roasted tomatoes (or regular crushed/diced tomatoes)
• Frozen vegetables: onion, bell pepper, carrots, spinach, garlic
• Chicken bone broth (or water)
• Olive oil or avocado oil spray
• Salt and pepper
• Balsamic or red wine vinegar
• Hot sauce (optional)
• Lime juice (optional)

Ingredients List For Baked Tortilla Chips (Optional)

• Corn tortillas (preferably extra thin for crispiness)
• Avocado oil spray (or olive oil spray)
• Salt (to taste)

Optional: Lime juice, chili powder, or cumin for extra flavor

Instructions:

Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours (longer for deeper flavor)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Blend frozen vegetables (onion, bell pepper, carrots, spinach, garlic) with chicken broth until smooth to create the hidden veggie sauce.
2. Brown the ground turkey in a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat, about 4-5 minutes, until nicely browned.
3. Add the chili seasoning packets and deglaze with broth, cooking for 4-5 minutes until liquid reduces.
4. Stir in the chili beans, crushed tomatoes, and veggie sauce. Add bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for at least 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Longer simmering enhances flavor.
6. Finish with a splash of vinegar and hot sauce if desired. Remove bay leaves before serving.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
• Fat: 8g (mainly from olive oil and turkey)
• Carbohydrates: 40g (including beans and vegetables)
• Fiber: 12g (from beans and veggies)
• Protein: 35g (from turkey and beans)

(Tip: Use lean turkey to keep fat low, and add extra vegetables for fiber and nutrients.)

Instructions For Corn Tortilla

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Stack the corn tortillas and cut them into fourths to create triangles.
3. Arrange the tortilla triangles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Lightly spray the chips with avocado or olive oil spray, then sprinkle with salt.
5. For extra flavor, you can also sprinkle chili powder or cumin before baking.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they turn golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
7. Once out of the oven, squeeze a little lime juice over the chips if desired. Let them cool for a minute or two—they’ll crisp up further as they cool.

Nutritional Information (per serving, about 10 chips)

• Calories: 70-80 kcal
• Fat: 3-4g (mainly from the oil spray)
• Carbohydrates: 12-15g
• Fiber: 2-3g
• Protein: 1-2g

(Tip: Using extra thin tortillas helps them crisp up better, and a light spray of oil keeps the calories in check while ensuring crunch.)

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

For a lower-fat version, swap the turkey for ground chicken or plant-based protein crumbles. You can also reduce the sodium by choosing low-sodium beans and tomatoes. 

To boost fiber further, add more vegetables like zucchini or cauliflower. If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the turkey with lentils or extra beans, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. These tweaks make the chili even more heart-healthy without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This chili pairs well with baked tortilla chips, which you can make by slicing corn tortillas into triangles, spraying with oil, and baking until crispy.

For a complete meal, serve over cilantro lime rice or stuff into baked potatoes topped with cheese and herbs. Be mindful to avoid overcooking the chips—they should be crispy but not burnt.

When reheating leftovers, add a splash of broth or water to keep the chili moist. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage. Reheat thoroughly before serving to enjoy the flavors and nutrients.

Wrapping Things Up

This high protein turkey chili is a simple, nutritious, and versatile dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. 

The hidden veggie sauce ensures you’re sneaking in extra nutrients without sacrificing flavor, making it ideal for picky eaters or anyone looking to boost their vegetable intake. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting bowl of chili that’s both healthy and satisfying.

FAQ

Q: What is the best way to make a high protein turkey chili?

A: The key is using lean ground turkey, plenty of vegetables, and flavorful seasonings. Incorporating a hidden veggie sauce made from frozen vegetables blended with broth adds nutrients without changing the taste.

Q: How can I season hamburger patties for a flavorful high protein turkey chili?

A: Use a blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of smoked paprika. These spices create a rich, savory flavor that complements the turkey and vegetables.

Q: Can I make this chili vegetarian?

A: Absolutely. Replace the turkey with lentils or plant-based protein crumbles, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The flavor remains hearty and satisfying.

Q: How long does this high protein turkey chili last?

A: Stored in an airtight container, it will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months—perfect for meal prep.

Q: What are some healthy toppings for this chili?

A: Consider shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapenos, or a squeeze of lime. These add flavor without extra calories or sodium.