Easy White Bean Turkey Chili Verde

Easy White Bean Turkey Chili Verde is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. This chili is not only packed with flavors but also simple to prepare. With just a few ingredients like ground turkey, canned white beans, and store-bought salsa verde, you can whip up a delicious meal that will please everyone at the table. Top it off with your favorite garnishes for an extra touch of festivity.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This chili comes together in just over an hour, making it suitable for weeknight dinners.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of flavors appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone enjoys their meal.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from turkey and fiber from white beans, this dish supports a healthy diet.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize each bowl with toppings like cheese, avocado, or cilantro to suit individual tastes.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pot, allowing you to focus on enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Easy White Bean Turkey Chili Verde, it’s helpful to gather all necessary tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large heavy pot
• Wooden spoon
• Chopping board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large heavy pot: Ideal for even heat distribution while simmering your chili.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.
• Chopping board & Chef’s knife: Essential for prepping your veggies quickly and safely.

Ingredients

For the Chili Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 2 pounds ground turkey, (dark or white meat or a combination)
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped (2 cups)
• 3-4 large garlic cloves, finely chopped (2 tablespoons)
• 1 yellow, red or green bell pepper, seeded and coarsely chopped
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped

Spices and Seasoning

• 2 tablespoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
• 1 bay leaf

For the Liquid Base

• 24 ounces of store-bought salsa verde
• 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles (mild or hot, depending on your taste)
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

For the White Beans

• 2 (15-ounce) cans of white beans (Great Northern or cannellini), drained

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro
• Chopped red onions or sliced scallions
• Grated cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
• Sour cream or plain yogurt
• Sliced avocado
• Lime wedges

How to Make Easy White Bean Turkey Chili Verde

Step 1: Cook the Turkey

Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey, season it with a pinch of salt, and cook until it loses its pink color—about five minutes. Use a heavy wooden spoon to stir and break up any lumps. Once cooked, transfer the turkey along with its juices to a bowl and return the pot to heat.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, heat the remaining tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, bell pepper, and jalapeño. Sauté these ingredients while stirring often until they are tender and lightly browned—around four to five minutes. Now add in the spices: coriander, cumin, oregano, and salt. Cook for another thirty seconds while stirring.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked turkey to the pot. Add in the bay leaf, salsa verde, canned chiles, and chicken broth. Reduce heat to low simmer and cook gently without covering for about forty-five minutes.

Step 4: Add Beans

Stir in the drained white beans into your chili mixture after forty-five minutes. Allow everything to simmer gently for an additional twenty minutes.

Step 5: Serve

Serve your chili in bowls topped with cilantro, onions, cheese, avocado, and/or sour cream according to preference. Alternatively, you can place toppings on the side for guests to choose their favorites.

This Easy White Bean Turkey Chili Verde is sure to become a regular dish in your kitchen! Enjoy!

How to Serve Easy White Bean Turkey Chili Verde

Serving Easy White Bean Turkey Chili Verde can elevate your meal experience. This chili is hearty and satisfying on its own, but adding some toppings and sides can make it even more delightful.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Chopped Cilantro: Adds a fresh burst of flavor.
• Grated Cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack melts beautifully over the hot chili.
• Sour Cream or Yogurt: A dollop adds creaminess and cuts through the spice.
• Sliced Avocado: Provides a rich, buttery texture that balances the heat.
• Chopped Red Onions or Scallions: Offers a crunchy bite and vibrant color.

Serve with Lime Wedges

• Fresh Lime Juice: Squeeze over the chili for an extra zing and brightness.

Offer Toppings on the Side

• Toppings Bar: Set out all toppings in small bowls for guests to customize their bowls according to their preferences.

How to Perfect Easy White Bean Turkey Chili Verde

To enhance your cooking process for this chili, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies provide better flavor and texture compared to frozen or canned.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Taste as you go; add more jalapeño or spices based on your heat preference.
• Simmer Longer for Flavor: Allowing the chili to simmer longer deepens the flavors; just be sure to check liquid levels.
• Experiment with Beans: Mix different types of white beans for varied textures and tastes.
• Make it Ahead of Time: This chili tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together, making it ideal for meal prep.

Best Side Dishes for Easy White Bean Turkey Chili Verde

Pairing side dishes with your turkey chili can create a complete meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement the flavors of this dish.

1. Cornbread: Sweet and moist cornbread contrasts nicely with spicy chili; serve warm with butter.
2. Rice or Quinoa: A bed of rice or quinoa absorbs the chili’s sauce, adding heartiness.
3. Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips provide a fun texture contrast; perfect for dipping into the chili.
4. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole pairs well with spice, enhancing every bite.
5. Simple Green Salad: A light salad with fresh greens and vinaigrette refreshes the palate between bites.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies add more nutrition and flavor variety to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy White Bean Turkey Chili Verde, avoiding common pitfalls will help you achieve the best results.

• Skipping the Sauté: Failing to sauté your vegetables can lead to a bland chili. Always sauté until they are tender and slightly browned for enhanced flavor.
• Using Low-Quality Salsa Verde: Not all salsas are created equal. Choose a high-quality salsa verde for the best taste; it makes a significant difference in your final dish.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Under-seasoning can leave your chili flat. Taste as you cook and add more spices or salt gradually to build flavor.
• Adding Beans Too Early: If you add the beans too soon, they may become mushy. Incorporate them during the last 20 minutes of cooking for perfect texture.
• Overcooking Turkey: Cooking ground turkey for too long can dry it out. Cook just until it loses its pink color, then remove it from heat to retain moisture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the chili to cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing Easy White Bean Turkey Chili Verde

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container, as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Easy White Bean Turkey Chili Verde

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls, stirring halfway through, for about 3-5 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout, around 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy White Bean Turkey Chili Verde.

Can I use other types of beans?

Yes, feel free to substitute with black beans or pinto beans if you prefer. Each type will give a unique flavor and texture.

How spicy is this Easy White Bean Turkey Chili Verde?

The spice level varies based on the jalapeño used and whether you include any additional hot peppers. Adjust according to your preference!

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! This chili tastes even better after sitting, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining guests.

What toppings go well with Easy White Bean Turkey Chili Verde?

Popular toppings include grated cheese, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, and sour cream or plain yogurt for added creaminess.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients listed are gluten-free, making this chili a safe option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

Easy White Bean Turkey Chili Verde is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different toppings or adjust the spice level to suit your taste. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings and is sure to please everyone at your table.