Creamy Green Chile Turkey Chili
This creamy green chile turkey chili is a hearty, protein-packed one-pot meal that delivers restaurant-quality flavor with a secret creamy ingredient. Perfect for weeknight dinners or batch cooking.
Total
1hServings
8Ingredients
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18 Ingredients
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Instructions
- 1
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped bell peppers and onion and sauté until softened.
- 2
Add the ground turkey to the pot. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until fully browned.
- 3
Season the cooked turkey with all-purpose chicken seasoning.
- 4
Stir in the tomato paste and minced garlic. Cook for about one minute, until the garlic is fragrant.
- 5
Add the can of diced tomatoes and green chiles, can of diced tomatoes, can of mild green chiles, and both cans of great northern beans (with their liquid).
- 6
Pour in the bone broth and add the can of cream of chicken soup. Stir well to combine, ensuring the soup is fully incorporated.
- 7
If you'd like it spicier, add chile de árbol powder to taste.
- 8
Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 30 to 45 minutes for the flavors to meld.
- 9
Serve hot, topped with optional garnishes like shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, sliced jalapeños, and crushed tortilla chips.
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Tips & Notes
Pro tips
- Brown the ground turkey thoroughly in a single layer before adding vegetables to build deeper flavor and ensure even cooking.
- Use Ro-Tel (diced tomatoes with green chiles) as a time-saver; it combines two ingredients and adds authentic Southwest seasoning.
- Taste and adjust seasoning at the end; add more chicken seasoning, salt, or lime juice to brighten flavors before serving.
- Simmer the chili uncovered for the last 10 minutes to thicken it if too watery, or add a splash of broth if it reduces too much.
Substitutions
- Ground turkey → ground chicken or ground beef (no change to cooking time)
- Ro-Tel → 1 can diced tomatoes + 1 can diced green chiles + 1 tsp cumin (mimics the Ro-Tel seasoning blend)
- Mild green chiles → poblano peppers, roasted and diced, or jalapeños for more heat
- All-purpose chicken seasoning → cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder mixed to taste
Storage & make-ahead
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months; reheat on stovetop or microwave.
Common Questions
What makes this turkey chili creamy?
The recipe uses a secret creamy ingredient that distinguishes it from traditional red chili. This is revealed in the full recipe instructions.
Can I use ground beef instead of ground turkey?
Yes. Ground beef works as a direct substitute; adjust cooking time slightly if using a leaner cut, and expect a richer flavor.
How do I store and reheat leftover chili?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in 2-minute intervals.
Is this recipe spicy?
It uses mild green chiles, so it's not very spicy. Add jalapeños or hot salsa for more heat, or use hot green chiles if you prefer extra kick.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes. Brown the turkey and sauté aromatics first, then transfer to a slow cooker with remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
