It’s that time of year again – the leaves are turning golden, the air is crisp, and all I crave is a big, comforting bowl of something warm and hearty. And let me tell you, nothing hits the spot quite like my Turkey Sweet Potato Chili. This isn’t just any chili recipe; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures that has become a beloved staple in my home. From cozy weeknight dinners to lively game-day gatherings, this chili consistently earns rave reviews. My family? They absolutely devour it! Even my pickiest eater asks for seconds (and sometimes thirds!). There’s something magical about the combination of lean ground turkey, sweet and tender sweet potatoes, and the rich blend of spices that just creates pure comfort in a bowl. If you’re looking for a healthy, delicious, and crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for fall and winter, you’ve come to the right place. Get ready to experience chili like never before with this incredible Turkey Sweet Potato Chili recipe!

Ingredients

Crafting the perfect Turkey Sweet Potato Chili is all about using the right ingredients and understanding how each component contributes to the final, delicious result. Let’s dive into each ingredient in detail, exploring why they are essential and how to choose the best for your chili.

1 lb Ground Turkey: The heart of our chili, ground turkey provides a lean and flavorful protein base. Opting for turkey over traditional beef offers a healthier twist without compromising on taste. When selecting ground turkey, consider the fat percentage. For a leaner chili, choose ground turkey that is 93% lean or higher. Brands like Butterball and Jennie-O are widely recognized for their quality and flavor, and they are excellent choices for this recipe. Using high-quality ground turkey ensures a richer, more savory flavor that permeates the entire chili. If you are looking to enhance the flavor even further, you can consider using ground turkey thighs instead of breast for a slightly higher fat content and deeper flavor profile. For those who prefer an even leaner option, ground chicken breast can also be substituted, though it may have a milder flavor. Always ensure your ground turkey is fresh and properly stored before cooking to maintain its quality and safety. Ground turkey is not only a fantastic source of lean protein, crucial for muscle building and repair, but it is also a good source of essential nutrients like niacin, selenium, and vitamin B6. These nutrients play vital roles in energy metabolism, immune function, and overall health.
2 Medium Sweet Potatoes, Peeled and Diced: Sweet potatoes are the secret weapon in this chili recipe. They bring a natural sweetness, a creamy texture, and a vibrant color that elevates the dish from ordinary to extraordinary. When choosing sweet potatoes, look for firm, unblemished potatoes. The size of the dice is important; aim for roughly ½ inch cubes to ensure they cook evenly and become tender during the simmering process without completely dissolving. Sweet potatoes are nutritional powerhouses, packed with vitamin A (in the form of beta-carotene), vitamin C, fiber, and potassium. Vitamin A is crucial for vision, immune function, and skin health, while vitamin C is a potent antioxidant and immune booster. Fiber aids in digestion and promotes satiety, keeping you feeling full and satisfied. Potassium is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure and heart function. For variations, you could experiment with different types of sweet potatoes, such as Japanese sweet potatoes (Satsumaimo) which have a slightly drier and nuttier flavor, or Garnet sweet potatoes which are known for their deep orange color and moist texture. Roasting the sweet potatoes before adding them to the chili can also intensify their sweetness and add a caramelized flavor dimension, though this will add extra preparation time.
1 Can Black Beans, Drained and Rinsed (15 oz can): Black beans are a chili staple, adding a hearty, earthy flavor and a boost of protein and fiber. Using canned black beans makes this recipe incredibly convenient. Ensure you drain and rinse the beans thoroughly before adding them to the chili. Rinsing removes excess sodium and the starchy liquid that can sometimes cause digestive discomfort. When selecting canned black beans, opt for low-sodium or no-salt-added varieties to control the sodium content of your chili, especially if you are mindful of your sodium intake. Black beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, iron, and folate. Protein and fiber contribute to satiety and help regulate blood sugar levels. Iron is essential for oxygen transport and energy production, while folate is crucial for cell growth and development. For those who prefer to use dried black beans, you will need to soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the chili. This will require more time but can offer a slightly different texture and flavor. Other types of beans that could be used in chili, though they would alter the flavor profile, include kidney beans, pinto beans, or cannellini beans.
1 Can Corn, Drained (15 oz can): Corn adds a touch of sweetness, a vibrant pop of color, and a pleasing textural contrast to the chili. Similar to black beans, canned corn offers convenience. Drain the corn before adding it to the chili to prevent excess liquid. You can use whole kernel corn, or for a slightly different texture, try using creamed corn for a richer, creamier chili. Frozen corn is also an excellent alternative to canned corn; simply thaw it before adding it to the chili. If you have fresh corn on the cob, grilling or roasting it before cutting off the kernels and adding them to the chili will impart a smoky, charred flavor that is incredibly delicious. Corn is a good source of carbohydrates for energy, as well as antioxidants and some fiber. It adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory and spicy elements of the chili. For those who are sensitive to corn or prefer to avoid it, you could omit it or substitute it with other vegetables like diced bell peppers or zucchini, though these will change the flavor profile.
1 Can Diced Tomatoes (14.5 oz can): Diced tomatoes form the flavorful base of our chili sauce. Fire-roasted diced tomatoes are highly recommended for their enhanced smoky flavor, which adds depth and complexity to the chili. Regular diced tomatoes will also work perfectly well. When choosing diced tomatoes, consider the style and seasonings. Some canned diced tomatoes come with added herbs or spices, which can add another layer of flavor. However, for this recipe, plain diced tomatoes or fire-roasted diced tomatoes are ideal as we are adding our own blend of spices. Diced tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to various health benefits, including heart health and cancer prevention. They also provide vitamin C and fiber. For a smoother chili sauce, you can use crushed tomatoes or tomato puree instead of diced tomatoes. If you prefer a chunkier chili, you can use a combination of diced and crushed tomatoes. Fresh tomatoes can also be used, but they will need to be peeled, seeded, and diced, and you may need to adjust the cooking time to allow them to break down properly.
1 Medium Onion, Diced: Onion is an aromatic base that builds foundational flavor for the chili. Yellow or white onions are typically used for chili due to their versatile flavor. Dice the onion into small, even pieces so they cook down evenly and become translucent when sautéed. Onions are a source of antioxidants and sulfur-containing compounds, which have been linked to various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Sautéing the onion in olive oil at the beginning of the recipe softens its harshness and releases its sweet and savory flavors, creating a flavorful foundation for the chili. For a milder onion flavor, you can use shallots or leeks instead of yellow or white onions. Red onions can also be used, but they have a stronger, more pungent flavor that may be more pronounced in the finished chili.
2 Cloves Garlic, Minced: Garlic is another essential aromatic that adds pungent, savory depth to the chili. Fresh garlic is always preferred for its robust flavor. Minced garlic releases its flavor more effectively than whole or sliced cloves. Garlic is renowned for its health benefits, including its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties. It contains compounds like allicin, which are believed to contribute to these health benefits. Sautéing the garlic along with the onion releases its aroma and mellows its sharpness, infusing the olive oil with its flavor, which then carries throughout the chili. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use jarred minced garlic or garlic powder as a substitute, but fresh garlic will provide the best flavor. Roasted garlic can also be used for a sweeter, mellower garlic flavor, but this will require additional preparation time.
2 Cups Chicken Broth: Chicken broth acts as the liquid base of the chili, bringing all the ingredients together and creating a flavorful and slightly brothy consistency. Low-sodium chicken broth is recommended to control the sodium content of the dish. Homemade chicken broth will always enhance the flavor, but good quality store-bought chicken broth works perfectly well for convenience. Chicken broth adds a savory depth and richness to the chili. Vegetable broth can be used as a vegetarian alternative, and beef broth could also be used for a richer, more intense flavor, though it will slightly alter the overall flavor profile. If you prefer a thicker chili, you can use less broth, or you can thicken the chili later by simmering it uncovered for a longer period or by adding a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water).
2 Tablespoons Chili Powder: Chili powder is the key spice blend that provides the signature chili flavor. Chili powders vary in heat level and flavor profile. Start with 2 tablespoons and adjust to your preference. For a milder chili, use less chili powder, or choose a mild chili powder blend. For a spicier chili, use more chili powder, or opt for a chili powder blend that includes hotter peppers like chipotle or ancho. Chili powder is typically a blend of dried chili peppers, cumin, oregano, garlic powder, and other spices. It provides warmth, depth, and a slightly smoky flavor to the chili. Experiment with different chili powder blends to find your favorite flavor profile.
1 Teaspoon Ground Cumin: Ground cumin adds a warm, earthy, and slightly smoky flavor that complements the chili powder and other spices. Cumin is a staple spice in chili recipes and contributes significantly to the overall flavor complexity. It has a distinctive aroma and a warm, slightly bitter taste. Cumin seeds can also be used; toasting them lightly before grinding them will enhance their flavor even further.
1 Teaspoon Paprika: Paprika adds a subtle sweetness and a vibrant red color to the chili. There are different types of paprika, including sweet paprika, smoked paprika, and hot paprika. Sweet paprika is typically used for color and mild flavor. Smoked paprika will add a smoky dimension to the chili, while hot paprika will add heat. For this recipe, sweet paprika or smoked paprika are excellent choices. Paprika is made from dried and ground peppers and is a relatively mild spice that enhances the overall flavor profile of the chili.
Salt and Pepper to Taste: Salt and pepper are essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors in the chili. Season generously with salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting as you go. The amount of salt and pepper needed will depend on your personal preference and the sodium content of your broth and canned ingredients. Start with about 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper and adjust from there. Taste the chili at various stages of cooking and add more salt and pepper as needed to bring out the flavors.
1 Tablespoon Olive Oil: Olive oil is used for sautéing the onion and garlic at the beginning of the recipe. It provides a healthy fat and adds a subtle fruity flavor. Extra virgin olive oil is a good choice for its flavor and health benefits. Other cooking oils, such as avocado oil, canola oil, or vegetable oil, can also be used. Sautéing the aromatics in olive oil helps to develop their flavors and create a flavorful base for the chili.
Optional Toppings: Toppings are essential for customizing your chili and adding extra layers of flavor and texture. Popular toppings for Turkey Sweet Potato Chili include:
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Adds coolness and creaminess to balance the heat and richness of the chili. Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative to sour cream, providing more protein and less fat.
- Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous flavor that complements the spices and adds a pop of fresh green color.
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, or a blend of Mexican cheeses are all excellent choices. Cheese adds richness, saltiness, and a melty texture.
- Chopped Green Onions: Green onions add a mild oniony flavor and a fresh crunch.
- Avocado or Guacamole: Avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats, while guacamole provides a richer, more complex flavor.
- Tortilla Chips or Cornbread: For dipping and adding textural contrast.
- Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds brightness and acidity to balance the flavors.
- Hot Sauce: For those who like extra heat, a dash of your favorite hot sauce can be added to individual bowls.

Instructions

Making Turkey Sweet Potato Chili is a straightforward and rewarding process. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a delicious and comforting meal.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This step is crucial for building the flavor base of the chili. Sautéing the onion and garlic releases their essential oils and mellows their raw sharpness, creating a sweet and savory foundation for the rest of the ingredients. Ensure you don’t brown the garlic, as burnt garlic can become bitter. Keep the heat at medium and stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The aroma of sautéing onions and garlic is a wonderful indicator that you’re on the right track!
Brown Ground Turkey: Add the ground turkey to the pot with the sautéed onions and garlic. Increase the heat slightly to medium-high. Brown the turkey for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Continue cooking until the turkey is no longer pink and is fully cooked through. Browning the turkey enhances its flavor and texture. Ensure you break up the turkey into small pieces as it cooks so that it cooks evenly and incorporates well into the chili. Drain off any excess fat from the pot after browning the turkey to keep the chili leaner.
Add Vegetables and Broth: Pour in the diced sweet potatoes, drained and rinsed black beans, drained corn, diced tomatoes (undrained), and chicken broth to the pot with the browned turkey. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Make sure the chicken broth is sufficient to cover the vegetables and turkey. If needed, you can add a little more broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
Spice it Up: Add the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the chili. Start with the specified amounts of spices and adjust to your taste preference later. If you are unsure about the spice level, you can start with less chili powder and add more gradually as the chili simmers. The spices will bloom and release their flavors as the chili simmers, creating a rich and complex flavor profile.
Simmer to Perfection: Bring the chili to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork. Simmering allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and the sweet potatoes to cook through and soften. Stir the chili occasionally during simmering to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot and to ensure even cooking. If the chili becomes too thick during simmering, you can add a little more chicken broth or water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Taste and Adjust: After simmering, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, chili powder, or cumin to achieve your desired flavor profile. This is the time to personalize the chili to your taste. If you want a spicier chili, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. If you want a richer flavor, you can add a tablespoon of tomato paste or a splash of Worcestershire sauce. Don’t be afraid to experiment and adjust the seasonings until you are completely satisfied with the taste.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Turkey Sweet Potato Chili hot in bowls. Offer a variety of optional toppings, such as sour cream, chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, chopped green onions, avocado, tortilla chips, and lime wedges, so everyone can customize their chili to their liking. A warm bowl of this chili is perfect on a chilly day and is a comforting and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

Nutrition Facts

(Estimated, per serving, serving size: approximately 1.5 cups, recipe serves 4-6)

Calories: Approximately 350-400 kcal
Protein: 25-30g
Fat: 10-15g (depending on the lean percentage of ground turkey and toppings)
Saturated Fat: 2-4g
Cholesterol: 70-90mg
Sodium: 400-600mg (depending on broth and canned goods, can be lower with low-sodium options)
Carbohydrates: 40-50g
Fiber: 10-15g
Sugar: 10-15g (naturally occurring from sweet potatoes, corn, and tomatoes)
Vitamin A: Very High (from sweet potatoes)
Vitamin C: Good source
Iron: Good source
Potassium: Good source

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and toppings. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes (chopping vegetables, measuring ingredients)
Cook Time: 30 minutes (sautéing, browning, simmering)
Total Time: 50 minutes

This Turkey Sweet Potato Chili is relatively quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or when you need a comforting meal in under an hour. The majority of the cook time is hands-off simmering, allowing you to attend to other tasks while the chili develops its delicious flavors.

How to Serve

Turkey Sweet Potato Chili is incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways to create a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some serving suggestions:

Classic Bowl:
- Serve hot in a bowl as a hearty and comforting main course.
- Garnish generously with your favorite toppings (see topping suggestions in the ingredients section).
- Pair with a side of cornbread, crusty bread, or tortilla chips for dipping and scooping.
Chili Baked Potatoes:
- Top baked sweet potatoes or regular potatoes with a generous ladle of chili.
- Add toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, and bacon bits for a loaded baked potato meal.
Chili Cheese Fries:
- Pour chili over a bed of French fries or sweet potato fries.
- Melt shredded cheese over the chili fries for a decadent and indulgent treat.
Chili Nachos:
- Spread tortilla chips on a large platter.
- Spoon chili over the chips.
- Top with shredded cheese, jalapenos, olives, sour cream, guacamole, and any other nacho favorites.
Chili Dogs or Chili Burgers:
- Use chili as a topping for hot dogs or hamburgers.
- Add cheese, onions, and mustard for classic chili dogs or burgers.
Chili Stuffed Peppers:
- Halve bell peppers lengthwise and remove seeds.
- Stuff peppers with chili and bake until peppers are tender.
- Top with cheese and bake until melted and bubbly.
Side Dish Pairings:
- Cornbread: A classic pairing that complements the chili perfectly.
- Crusty Bread: For soaking up every last bit of chili.
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad or a simple coleslaw provides a light and refreshing contrast to the rich chili.
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve chili over a bed of cooked rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.

Additional Tips for the Best Turkey Sweet Potato Chili

Spice Level Customization: Adjust the amount of chili powder and consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for extra heat if you prefer a spicier chili. For a milder chili, reduce the chili powder and ensure your chili powder blend is mild. Taste and adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process.
Enhance Flavor Depth: For a richer, more complex flavor, try browning the ground turkey in batches. This allows for better browning and flavor development. You can also add a tablespoon of tomato paste along with the spices and sauté it briefly to deepen the tomato flavor. A dash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce can also add umami depth.
Sweet Potato Texture Control: If you prefer a smoother chili with less chunky sweet potatoes, you can mash some of the cooked sweet potatoes against the side of the pot before serving. Alternatively, you can partially puree a portion of the chili using an immersion blender for a creamier texture while still retaining some chunks.
Make Ahead and Freezer Friendly: Turkey Sweet Potato Chili is an excellent make-ahead dish. The flavors actually deepen and improve overnight and over a few days in the refrigerator. It’s also freezer-friendly. Store leftover chili in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Slow Cooker or Instant Pot Adaptation: This recipe can easily be adapted for a slow cooker or Instant Pot. For a slow cooker, sauté the onion and garlic and brown the turkey in a skillet, then transfer all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. For an Instant Pot, use the sauté function to sauté onion and garlic and brown turkey, then add remaining ingredients, seal the lid, and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes with a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, followed by a quick release.

FAQ About Turkey Sweet Potato Chili Ingredients

Q1: Can I substitute ground beef for ground turkey?

A: Yes, you can substitute ground beef for ground turkey if you prefer a more traditional chili flavor or want a richer, fattier chili. Use lean ground beef (85% lean or higher) and drain off excess fat after browning. Keep in mind that ground beef will change the overall flavor profile and nutritional content, making it less lean than the turkey version.

Q2: I don’t have sweet potatoes. Can I use regular potatoes?

A: While sweet potatoes are key to the unique flavor of this recipe, you can use regular potatoes (like Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes) as a substitute if needed. However, the chili will be less sweet and have a different flavor profile. If using regular potatoes, consider adding a touch of brown sugar or maple syrup (about 1-2 teaspoons) to mimic some of the sweetness from the sweet potatoes.

Q3: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned diced tomatoes?

A: Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. You will need approximately 4-5 medium tomatoes. Peel, seed, and dice the fresh tomatoes before adding them to the chili. Fresh tomatoes will have a brighter, fresher flavor. You may need to simmer the chili for a slightly longer time to allow the fresh tomatoes to break down and create a sauce. You might also need to add a tablespoon of tomato paste to enhance the tomato flavor if using fresh tomatoes.

Q4: I don’t have black beans. What other beans can I use?

A: If you don’t have black beans, you can use other types of beans such as kidney beans, pinto beans, or cannellini beans. Kidney beans are a classic chili bean and will provide a similar hearty texture. Pinto beans are milder and creamier. Cannellini beans (white kidney beans) will offer a softer texture and milder flavor. Each bean variety will slightly alter the flavor profile of the chili, but they all make for delicious and nutritious substitutions.

Q5: Can I make this chili vegetarian or vegan?

A: Yes, to make this chili vegetarian or vegan, simply omit the ground turkey. To maintain the protein content and heartiness, you can add an extra can of black beans or another type of bean like lentils or chickpeas. You can also add crumbled tempeh or a plant-based ground meat substitute. Ensure you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make it vegan. The sweet potatoes, corn, beans, tomatoes, and spices already make this recipe very vegetable-forward and adaptable for vegetarian and vegan diets.