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Leftover Turkey Chili in white bowls over a green kitchen cloth surrounded by limes and fresh cilantro

Leftover Turkey Chili

5 from 2 votes
Leftover Turkey Chili is the perfect way to use up your Thanksgiving turkey, packed with flavor and ideal for a cozy, filling dinner.
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:40 minutes
Course: Brunch, Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: American
Keyword: chili, Holiday, Leftover Turkey, Thanksgiving
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 165kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
  • 1 (15 oz) can of diced tomatoes
  • 1 (15 oz) can of black beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15 oz) can of kidney beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 1/2 cups cooked turkey shredded or cubed
  • 2 cups turkey or chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro, avocado, or crushed tortilla chips (optional toppings)

Instructions

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper, cooking for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
    2 tbsp olive oil, 1 medium onion, 1 bell pepper, 3 garlic cloves
  • Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
    2 tbsp tomato paste, 2 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • Add diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, broth, and turkey. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
    1 (15 oz) can of diced tomatoes, 1 (15 oz) can of black beans, 1 (15 oz) can of kidney beans, 1 1/2 cups cooked turkey
  • Taste the chili and adjust seasoning if needed. If you prefer a thicker chili, simmer for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.
  • Ladle the chili into bowls and add your favorite toppings. Enjoy your turkey-inspired comfort food!

Video

@cookinglikekate Turn your holiday leftovers into a hearty meal with this easy and flavorful Leftover Turkey Chili, perfect for cozy nights. #turkeytiktok #holidaytiktok #holidayvibes #holidaymeals #yummy #holidaymealideas ♬ Maybe You Still Call It Christmas - Phantom Planet

Notes

  • Turkey Substitutes: If you don't have leftover turkey, you can use shredded chicken or ground beef instead.
  • Adjust Spice Level: Customize the heat by adding more or less chili powder, cayenne, or fresh jalapeños.
  • Thickening Tips: Mash some of the beans to naturally thicken the chili or let it simmer uncovered to reduce.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat with a splash of broth or water.

Nutrition

Serving: 6servings | Calories: 165kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 13g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 44mg | Sodium: 399mg | Potassium: 169mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 1044IU | Vitamin C: 28mg | Calcium: 32mg | Iron: 1mg