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Leftover Turkey Chili

Leftover Turkey Chili
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Transform leftover turkey into a vibrant and hearty chili packed with bold spices, fresh vegetables, and comforting flavors. This quick and easy Leftover Turkey Chili is perfect for cozy meals any day and can be customized to your taste preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups leftover turkey, shredded or chopped
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans or black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Spices

  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes and Additions

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
  • Dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Chopped avocado
  • Chopped jalapeños or pinch of cayenne pepper (for spice)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Dice the onion and bell pepper, mince the garlic, and shred or chop your leftover turkey into bite-sized pieces to ensure smooth cooking.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Add Spices: Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika over the sautéed vegetables. Stir well to coat and allow the spices to toast slightly, enhancing their flavor.
  4. Build the Chili Base: Pour in the diced tomatoes, beans, and broth. Stir to combine all ingredients, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer so flavors meld together.
  5. Incorporate Leftover Turkey: Add the shredded or chopped turkey into the pot. Stir thoroughly to heat through and infuse the chili with the turkey’s flavor. Simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes.
  6. Finish and Adjust: Taste the chili and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or an extra splash of lime juice if desired. For fresh brightness, top with chopped cilantro right before serving.

Notes

  • Toast spices before adding liquids to unlock their full aroma.
  • Add leftover turkey at the end to keep it moist and tender.
  • Taste and adjust seasonings throughout cooking to maintain a balanced flavor.
  • For extra umami, add a splash of soy sauce or a small piece of dark chocolate.
  • Chili tastes even better the next day, so consider making it ahead.

Nutrition

Keywords: leftover turkey chili, turkey chili, leftover turkey recipes, easy chili, gluten free chili, hearty chili, comfort food

Find it online: https://marycorner.com/leftover-turkey-chili/