Description
This Turkey Cranberry Chili is the perfect balance of sweet and savory, bringing together lean ground turkey, tart cranberries, and warm spices for a comforting bowl of holiday goodness. A unique twist on classic chili, this recipe is ideal for using up Thanksgiving leftovers or simply celebrating the festive season with a cozy, hearty dish.
Ingredients
• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional for extra sweetness)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional, for serving)
Instructions
1. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and softened (about 3 minutes).
2. Cook the turkey: Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes.
3. Spice it up: Stir in chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, smoked paprika, and nutmeg. Cook for 1–2 minutes to enhance flavors.
4. Add liquids and beans: Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, white beans, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
5. Cranberry magic: Add the fresh or frozen cranberries along with maple syrup or honey (if using). Stir and bring the chili to a simmer.
6. Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Final touches: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. If needed, add more broth for desired consistency.
8. Serve and garnish: Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with sour cream or Greek yogurt if desired.
Notes
• If using leftover cooked turkey, add it during the last 10 minutes instead of cooking raw turkey.
• Substitute kidney beans or black beans if you prefer a heartier chili.
• Adjust sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup/honey.
• For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Soup & Stew
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: ~280
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: Turkey chili, cranberry chili, holiday comfort food, Thanksgiving leftovers, healthy chili recipe, sweet and savory chili