Healthy turkey chili made with lean ground turkey, kidney beans and corn. This famous recipe is perfectly spiced, packed with plenty of protein and fiber, and is simply the BEST. Make it on the stovetop or in your slow cooker for an easy, delicious weeknight dinner.
I normally don’t declare recipes the best for just any reason. In fact, if I’m saying something is the BEST, then it’s for a very good reason. Most of the time, it’s because several people have tried a recipe and said it was the best thing they’ve ever tasted. This usually happens when I bake cookies.
In 2015, I made this healthy turkey chili that is now famous on the internet. I had no idea that Ambitious Kitchen would soon be known for it. When I made it for the first time, I was amazed at how thick it was and how good the taste was. Fast-forward almost 10 years and it’s one of the all-time MOST POPULAR recipes on Ambitious Kitchen. And for good reason!.
People quickly put it in their recipe boxes, sent it to family and friends, and bookmarked it on their phones. I’m obsessed and I’m pretty sure the chili lovers of the world are, too.
Turkey chili is a nutritious, protein-packed dish that can be a healthy part of a weight loss diet. With the right ingredients and preparation methods, turkey chili offers a flavorful meal that can help you reach your weight loss goals.
What Makes Turkey Chili Good for Weight Loss
There are several key factors that make turkey chili an effective food for losing weight:
High Protein
Turkey is a lean source of protein that helps build muscle and burn fat. Protein takes longer to digest, leaving you feeling fuller for longer to help reduce calorie intake. Each serving of turkey chili provides around 20-25g of protein
Low Calorie
Chili made with ground turkey breast or thigh meat is significantly lower in calories than beef chili A one cup serving of turkey chili contains 200-300 calories versus 300-500 calories in beef chili
High Fiber
The vegetables, beans, tomatoes and spices used in chili provide a healthy dose of fiber. Fiber promotes feelings of fullness and supports weight loss. Aim for at least 5g of fiber per serving.
Spices Boost Metabolism
Spices like cumin, chili powder and paprika give chili its signature flavor. They may also help slightly boost your metabolism and fat burning.
Satisfying and Comforting
Turkey chili makes a hearty, comforting meal that can satisfy cravings and prevent overeating of less healthy foods. The blend of flavors and textures helps control portions.
Tips for Losing Weight with Turkey Chili
Follow these tips to make sure your turkey chili aids your weight loss efforts:
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Use extra lean ground turkey breast which is lowest in fat and calories. Or try a combo of breast and thigh.
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Load up on vegetables like tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, zucchini, carrots. They add nutrients and bulk up the chili.
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Add beans or lentils for an extra fiber and protein kick. Black, pinto and kidney beans work well.
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Skip high fat extras like cheese, sour cream or chips as toppings. Stick to healthy options like avocado or Greek yogurt.
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Make a big batch and portion it out into individual servings to eat throughout the week. Freezing is simple for grab and go meals.
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Be mindful of portion sizes. Aim for 1 – 1 1/2 cups per serving to keep calories in check.
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Serve with cauliflower rice or a side salad instead of inflammatory white rice or bread.
FAQs About Turkey Chili for Weight Loss
Is turkey or beef chili better for weight loss?
Turkey chili is better for weight loss since turkey is much lower in fat and calories than beef. Stick to lean ground turkey and avoid fatty ingredients.
How many calories are in a serving of turkey chili?
A 1 cup serving of turkey chili averages around 200-300 calories depending on added vegetables, beans, fat content of the turkey and any toppings.
What can I add to turkey chili to make it healthier?
Try adding more vegetables like zucchini, spinach or kale. Swap some turkey for beans or lentils. Use spices generously. Top with avocado instead of cheese.
Can I lose weight only eating turkey chili?
While turkey chili is very healthy, you cannot lose weight eating only one food. Combine it with other nutrient dense foods like salads, eggs, yogurt and lean protein as part of a balanced diet.
Will I get enough nutrients only eating turkey chili?
Chili provides protein, vitamins A, C, B6 and iron. But getting all essential nutrients requires eating a diverse diet with veggies, fruits, whole grains and lean protein. Don’t rely only on chili.
Does turkey chili help burn belly fat?
There are no foods that specifically target burning belly fat. But turkey chili is lower in calories so it can help create a calorie deficit needed for overall fat and weight loss.
How often can I eat turkey chili on a diet?
It’s healthy enough that you can eat turkey chili several times per week as part of a reduced calorie diet. Just watch portion sizes and accompany it with other nutritious foods.
What chili ingredients should I avoid for weight loss?
Avoid fatty meats, excessive oil, full fat cheese and sour cream, white rice, sugary BBQ sauce, salty flavor enhancers and fried topping like tortilla strips.
So go ahead and enjoy turkey chili as part of your quest to lose weight. Just be sure to make it with lean turkey, load up on veggies and accompany it with other healthy diet foods for the best chance of weight loss success.
What to serve with this turkey chili
This hearty chili goes great with these honey pumpkin cornbread muffins, my favorite cornbread recipe ever, or even these simple gluten-free crackers. If you’re serving a crowd for a party or game day, add these sides to your table:
Get all of my appetizers here, and side dishes here!
Storing & freezing tips
- That’s right, this healthy turkey chili will stay good in the fridge for 7 days. Once your chili is completely cool, put it in an airtight container (or several, if you want to make it ahead of time) and put it in the fridge. Don’t add any extra toppings at this point. You can heat it up again in the microwave with a bowl that is safe for microwaves, or you can do it on the stove. Add your toppings once you’re ready to serve!.
- In the freezer: chili is the BEST meal to put in the freezer! Just follow the steps above, but instead of putting the turkey chili in the fridge, put it in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, let the chili thaw overnight and then heat it up on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to eat.
