White Bean Turkey Chili – Simple, Comforting, and Wholesome

White Bean Turkey Chili is one of those comforting, cozy meals that feels like a warm hug after a long day. It’s hearty, high in protein, and a bit creamy—without being heavy. Think of it as the perfect middle ground between comfort food and healthy eating.

Packed with white beans, lean ground turkey, and just the right amount of spice, this chili delivers satisfaction without the food coma. And the best part? No tomatoes! It’s ideal for anyone craving something creamy and flavorful that doesn’t rely on acidity. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just meal-prepping for the week, this White Bean Turkey Chili will quickly become a go-to in your dinner rotation.

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What is White Bean Turkey Chili?

White Bean Turkey Chili is a lighter twist on the traditional chili we all know. Instead of beef and tomato sauce, it features lean ground turkey and white beans for a creamy, protein-rich dish that’s both filling and wholesome. You’ll get the same warmth and depth of flavor thanks to garlic, onion, cumin, oregano, and a mix of mild green chilies and chili powder.

What makes it special is its versatility—it works for weeknight dinners, Sunday game days, or cozy winter lunches. This version skips the tomatoes, relying instead on the creaminess of pureed beans and a touch of sour cream or Greek yogurt for richness. If you love creamy soups like White Chicken Chili or Turkey Pumpkin White Bean Chili, this recipe fits right in your comfort food lineup.

Reasons to Try White Bean Turkey Chili

There are about a dozen reasons why White Bean Turkey Chili should be on your dinner menu this week, but let’s start with the big three: flavor, nutrition, and simplicity. It’s rich and satisfying but surprisingly light, thanks to lean ground turkey. Each spoonful gives you the perfect mix of creamy beans, tender meat, and a gentle kick of spice.

It’s also budget-friendly—most ingredients are pantry staples like canned beans and broth. And if you’re someone who’s constantly juggling work, family, and maybe a few too many errands, you’ll love how easy this dish is to make. It also reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Add your favorite toppings like diced avocado or shredded cheese, and you’ve got a customizable meal that everyone at the table will devour.

Ingredients Needed to Make White Bean Turkey Chili

• Olive oil spray
• 2 small onions, chopped
• 5 garlic cloves, chopped
• 3 pounds 93% lean ground turkey
• 1 (4.5-ounce) can diced green chilies
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ tablespoon cumin
• ½ tablespoon oregano
• 2 teaspoons chili powder (or to taste)
• ½ to 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes (depending on your spice level)
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 (15.5-ounce) cans cannellini or navy beans, rinsed and drained
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup reduced-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt
  Optional toppings: Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese, diced avocado, cilantro, sliced jalapeño, Greek yogurt or sour cream, chopped scallions.

Instructions to Make White Bean Turkey Chili

This Step by Step White Bean Turkey Chili guide walks you through the entire process, from prepping your aromatics to serving that creamy, hearty bowl of comfort. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, these clear instructions will help you create chili perfection every time—without the stress (or extra dishes).

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium heat. Once it’s warm, give it a light mist of olive oil spray. Add your chopped onions and garlic, letting them cook for about 4 to 5 minutes. Stir occasionally until the onions become translucent and the garlic fills your kitchen with that unmistakable savory aroma. This first Step by Step move is what builds that flavorful foundation, giving your chili its rich, home-cooked depth. If you love this kind of aromatic base, check out how similar techniques bring flavor to Easy Lemon Ginger Turmeric Chicken Soup.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Turkey

Next, add your lean ground turkey to the pot. Use a sturdy spoon to break up the meat as it cooks, making sure it browns evenly. This Step by Step process should take about 5 minutes—just long enough for the meat to turn completely white with lightly golden edges. Don’t rush this part; browning the turkey adds depth and texture that keeps the chili hearty. If you’ve ever tried the savory meatiness in Turkey Corn Chowder, you’ll know exactly what kind of richness you’re aiming for here.

Step 3: Add the Flavor Boosters

Once the turkey is cooked through, toss in the diced green chilies, kosher salt, cumin, oregano, chili powder, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well so the spices coat every bit of turkey and onion. Let it all cook together for 2 minutes to “bloom” the spices. This Step by Step moment is where your chili starts to smell incredible—like something that’s been simmering all afternoon. You can easily adjust the heat level here by using more or less crushed red pepper. For those who prefer milder heat, see our post on Easy Roasted Tomato Soup for inspiration on balancing spices.

Step 4: Add Beans and Broth

Now comes the creamy magic. Take one can of white beans and blend it with 1 cup of chicken broth until smooth. Pour this mixture into your pot—it’s your secret weapon for thickening the chili without cream. Add the remaining beans, the rest of the broth, and the bay leaf.

Give everything a good stir and bring it to a gentle boil. Once it bubbles, lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 30 to 35 minutes, stirring occasionally. This Step by Step simmering allows the chili to thicken naturally while the flavors marry beautifully. If you love rich, hearty soups, you might also enjoy High Protein Lasagna Soup, which uses a similar thickening trick for a creamy finish.

Step 5: Stir in the Creamy Goodness

After your chili has simmered and thickened, remove the bay leaf and lower the heat to low. Stir in the sour cream or Greek yogurt, blending until fully incorporated. This last Step by Step touch transforms your chili from good to irresistible, giving it that luxurious, silky texture everyone craves. Cook for another 4 to 5 minutes so everything warms through, then taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—add more salt, chili powder, or even a pinch of cumin for extra depth.

Step 6: Serve and Customize

Now for the fun part—serving! Ladle your hot White Bean Turkey Chili into bowls and add your favorite toppings. Shredded Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese melts beautifully over the warm chili. Diced avocado adds a creamy contrast, while cilantro and scallions bring freshness. If you like extra heat, top with sliced jalapeños. Serve it with crusty bread, tortilla chips, or even a side of Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes for the ultimate cozy meal.

Step 7: Slow Cooker & Instant Pot Variations

If you prefer a set-it-and-forget-it approach, this Step by Step White Bean Turkey Chili easily adapts. For the slow cooker, follow steps 1 through 4, then transfer the mixture to your slow cooker. Reduce the broth to 1½ cups and cook on low for 8 hours. For the Instant Pot, halve the recipe if using a 6-quart model, reduce broth to 1½ cups, and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes. Either method gives you the same comforting results with minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

Step 8: Taste, Adjust, and Enjoy

Before serving, give your chili one final taste. Every pot of chili is a little different, depending on your broth, beans, and seasoning levels. Adjust the flavors until it’s perfect for you. This final Step by Step check ensures your chili is perfectly balanced—creamy, savory, and just a little spicy. Once you’ve nailed it, grab a spoon, settle in, and enjoy that first comforting bite.

For more comforting recipes like this, don’t miss our Creamy Ranch Chicken Crockpot or Leftover Turkey Tortilla Soup, both packed with that same cozy, home-cooked flavor.

What to Serve with White Bean Turkey Chili

This White Bean Turkey Chili pairs beautifully with warm cornbread, crusty sourdough, or even a simple side salad. If you’re keeping it light, try a side of roasted veggies or a crisp cucumber-tomato salad. For cozy weekends, it’s hard to beat serving it with a slice of homemade Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes or buttery Easy Glazed Carrots. Want to take things up a notch? Sprinkle on extra cheese and serve with tortilla chips for that irresistible crunch.

Key Tips for Making White Bean Turkey Chili

1. Don’t skip the sauté. Letting the onions and garlic soften first brings out their sweetness.
2. Puree a can of beans. This trick gives your chili that rich, creamy texture without adding cream or flour.
3. Taste as you go. Seasoning can vary depending on your broth and beans, so adjust the salt and spice levels to your liking.
4. Meal prep magic. The flavors only get better after a night in the fridge, so make a big batch!
   For another creamy, protein-packed favorite, check out Easy Lemon Ginger Turmeric Chicken Soup.

Storage and Reheating Tips for White Bean Turkey Chili

Store leftover White Bean Turkey Chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To freeze, portion it into freezer-safe containers (leave a little room for expansion) and store for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove over medium heat. Add a splash of broth or water to loosen it if needed. Avoid boiling after adding sour cream—it can curdle. Microwave reheating also works great—just stir halfway through for even warmth.

FAQs

Can I make this chili dairy-free? Absolutely! Use coconut yogurt or a dairy-free sour cream alternative.
Is it spicy? Not unless you make it that way. Start with less red pepper and add more later if needed.
Can I use another type of bean? Yes—navy or great northern beans work perfectly.
Can I make this vegetarian? Definitely. Just swap the turkey for diced mushrooms or tofu crumbles and use veggie broth.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a hearty meal that hits that comfort-meets-healthy sweet spot, this White Bean Turkey Chili is the answer. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and a total crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a chilly fall evening or a weeknight dinner rush, this dish brings everyone to the table—no fuss, just good, wholesome food.

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