Turkey Apple Chili blends the hearty comforts of traditional chili with the unexpected sweetness of apples. This dish is perfect for those chilly nights when you crave a warm, flavorful meal. It’s a one-pot wonder that comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or meal prep for the week.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Turkey Apple Chili is a fantastic way to incorporate lean protein, hearty vegetables, and fruits into your diet while enjoying a comforting meal. The combination of turkey and apples adds complexity to the flavor profile, providing a delightful sweet and savory experience. Not only is it nutritious, but it’s also versatile and can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences. Additionally, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies, especially for picky eaters.

How to Make Turkey Apple Chili

Follow these easy steps to create a delicious batch of Turkey Apple Chili that will warm your heart and fill your belly.

Ingredients:

1 Tbs olive oil
2 cups sliced carrots (this was 2 large carrots for me)
2 cups sliced sweet potatoes (halved and quartered; this was 2 smaller sweet potatoes for me)
2 cups diced apples (this was from 2 apples for me)
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
2 tsp salt (divided)
1/2 tsp pepper
1 1/2 tsp rubbed sage (divided)
1/2 tsp cinnamon
A sprinkle of nutmeg
2 lbs ground lean turkey
3 Tbs tomato paste
2 tsp chili powder
3 cups crushed tomatoes
2 cups strained tomatoes (or marinara sauce)
1-2 cans kidney beans

Directions:

Put 1 tablespoon of olive oil into a large pot and turn the stove top up to medium heat.
Add the diced apples, sliced sweet potatoes, and sliced carrots to the pan. Top with 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, 1 teaspoon of rubbed sage, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a sprinkle of nutmeg. Mix with a spatula and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the ground turkey meat, breaking it up into smaller pieces, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the meat is no longer pink.
Stir in 3 tablespoons of tomato paste, 2 teaspoons of chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon rubbed sage, and 1 teaspoon salt to the mixture, mixing thoroughly until the tomato paste is evenly distributed.
Add the crushed tomatoes and strained tomatoes to the pot, and stir well.
Reduce the heat to low-medium and let it cook for 20-30 minutes. If you are adding kidney beans, do so at the end of the cooking time.

How to Serve Turkey Apple Chili

Turkey Apple Chili can be served in a bowl, garnished with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream for added richness. It pairs beautifully with warm cornbread or a fresh side salad. Enjoy it as a standalone dish or alongside some crusty bread for a fulfilling meal.

How to Store Turkey Apple Chili

Leftover Turkey Apple Chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

Tips to Make Turkey Apple Chili

Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a tart contrast to the savory flavors.
Customize the spice level by adding diced jalapeños or an extra teaspoon of chili powder.
For a thicker chili, let it simmer longer, or consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the broth.

Variation

You can easily adapt this recipe by swapping ground turkey for ground beef or chicken if you prefer. To make it vegetarian, replace the turkey with black beans or lentils and add more vegetables like bell peppers or corn. For a smoky flavor, consider adding a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned apples instead of fresh?
While using fresh apples is recommended for the best flavor and texture, canned apples can be used in a pinch. Just make sure to drain them well and adjust the sweetness if needed.

2. Is it necessary to add beans to the chili?
No, adding beans is optional. If you’d rather not include them, you can increase the amount of turkey or add more vegetables to maintain the hearty texture.

3. Can I prepare this chili in advance?
Absolutely! Turkey Apple Chili is a great make-ahead meal. You can prepare it a day or two in advance and let the flavors meld together in the refrigerator, making it even more delicious when reheated.