As fall is approaching all I can think of is all the awesome pumpkin recipes, stews, harvest-y smells, baking and the holidays approaching… again! But, I’m not ready for summer to end just yet! Can time just slow down? The last few weeks have been hectic, family visiting, and really with no time to plan or create awesome things in the kitchen. The few times I did have to experiment were all recipe fails. But, this last weekend all I can say was that this Mexican Turkey Chili was a success. AND the best part is that it’s so simple and easy to put together.
There are so many chili variations out there, it’s hard to pick a favorite. This chili is far from your traditional soup-y chili recipe. I wanted to create a simple chili with some of my favorite Mexican cuisine ingredients and toppings. I just love the combination of cilantro, queso fresco, Mexican crema, oregano, garlic, beans and ground turkey. In my opinion all these toppings are a must! But, you can replace the Mexican crema with plain Greek yogurt for a healthier option. My intention was to use black beans, but was out of black beans, and kidney beans did not disappoint. Also, whenever possible I like using ground turkey because it’s a leaner meat. However, if you prefer to use regular ground meat or other meat of choice go for it, I’m sure it would taste just as good.
This chili is not too soup-y, so you can eat it as a dip with chips. I had this chili with corn tortillas (turkey chili tacos), and had some leftovers over brown rice, both options tasted amazing. Don’t you love a recipe that is pretty flexible and can eat in five or more ways!?
This Mexican Turkey Chili won’t disappoint because it’s:
Quick and simple
Hearty and healthy
Versatile
Pretty tasty
Mexican Turkey Chili
Ingredients
1 tbsp canola oil
1/4 cup white onion, diced
1 garlic clove, minced
1lb ground turkey
1/4 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp salt
15 oz can tomato sauce (low sodium)
15 oz can of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
Toppings
White onion, diced
Avocado, diced
Chopped fresh cilantro
Mexican Crema or plain Greek yogurt
Crumbled queso fresco (Mexican cheese)
Instructions
- Heat a medium size pan over medium heat, add olive oil, onion and minced garlic and cook for about three minutes
- Add ground turkey, oregano, chili powder, and salt
- Combine all ingredients together
- Cook until meat is brown
- Add tomato sauce and beans and stir until combined
- Lower heat and simmer for 10 minutes
- Add toppings and serve over rice, pasta, eat with chips or your favorite side
- Enjoy!
Kristi @ My SF Kitchen says
Yummm this chili looks great!
Ana says
Thanks Kristi!
Theresa says
This looks delicious!!! I’m gonna try it tonight!!
Ana says
Thanks Theresa! let me know how you like it!:)
Ashley | Spoonful of Flavor says
That queso fresco is calling my name! I always make a big batch of chili during the week in the the fall and winter seasons and can’t wait to try this!
Ana says
Thanks Ashley! Queso fresco is one of my favorite cheeses, I can pretty much eat it with all my meals! Let me know if you give this recipe a try 🙂
Shelby @ Go Eat and Repeat says
I love this mexican turkey chili! I’m like you though- torn between wanting all the delicious fall recipes and giving up fresh summer produce!
Ana says
Thanks Shelby! Seriously, i’m so looking forward to fall, but not ready to say good-bye to summer! 🙂
Kelly - Life Made Sweeter says
I feel the same way! As much as I love fall, I will definitely miss all the wonderful summer produce. This chili is a great way to ease into the cozier season though. It looks fantastic!
Ana says
Thanks Kelly! I’m excited for cozy weather and more chili creations 🙂
ZazaCook says
Ooooh, this chili is making my mouth water!
Ana says
Thanks for stopping by Zaza! 🙂
Cheyanne @ No Spoon Necessary says
Oh my gawsh – I WISH time would slow down! Summer has been going by entirely too quickly! Anyways, LOVE this chili! Digging that is isn’t soupy and it is more dip like- that’s exactly how I personally like my chili! PLUS all the Mexican flavors and additions you used? YUMMMMM! This looks perfect! Cozy and comforting but also relatively healthy! Pinned! Cheers, girlfriend!
Ana says
Thanks Cheyanne!
Nicole says
Chili on a winter day is like a warm hug. Can’t wait to make this recipe once the temperatures drop.
Ana says
Thanks Nicole! Never thought chili as warm hug, but it is! 🙂 Hope you like it when you try 🙂
Dani @ Dani California Cooks says
I used to say that I could live off chili and lemonade happily. I definitely think I still could!
Ana says
Chili and lemonade is an awesome combination! 🙂
Anu-My Ginger Garlic Kitchen says
This Mexican turkey chili looks absolutely delicious and flavorful. Lovely share, Ana! 🙂
Ana says
Thanks Anu! 🙂
Kelly - Life Made Sweeter says
I feel the same way, this summer went by way too quickly! Love this turkey chili! It looks so comforting and delicious – perfect for those cooler months ahead!
Ana says
Thanks Kelly! 🙂
Cailee says
WOW!! This looks amazing!! What a great recipe! SO perfect for fall! It’s lovely! …and I just love how you added avocado!! So yummy!
Ana says
Thanks Cailee 🙂 The avocado adds the extra oomph!
Chelsea @chelseasmessyapron says
Comfort food at its finest!! This look absolutely delicious!!
Ana says
Thanks for the sweet comment Chelsea 🙂