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Turkey Chili with Sweet Potatoes

This hearty chili combines ground turkey and roasted sweet potatoes simmered with spices, creating a thick, flavorful dish with a vibrant orange color. The final dish has a chunky, comforting texture, with softened sweet potatoes and tender turkey in a rich sauce.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds sweet potatoes peeled and cubed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon chili powder
  • 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for heat
  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz, undrained
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 can kidney beans 15 oz, drained and rinsed
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Large pot or Dutch oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes, until tender and lightly caramelized.
  2. While the sweet potatoes roast, heat a large pot over medium heat. Add a splash of oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes, until it begins to soften.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for another 1 minute, until fragrant and slightly golden.
  4. Raise the heat to medium-high and add the ground turkey. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until browned all over, about 7-8 minutes, until no longer pink.
  5. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the chicken broth. Stir well to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Add the drained kidney beans, season with salt and pepper, and stir everything together. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
  7. Once the roasted sweet potatoes are ready, add them to the chili and stir gently. Let everything simmer uncovered for another 5 minutes to thicken slightly and integrate flavors.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or spices for extra warmth.
  9. Serve the hearty turkey chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime if desired.

Notes

For a spicier kick, add more cayenne or hot sauce. To make it vegetarian, substitute turkey with extra beans or hearty vegetables. This chili tastes even better the next day—perfect for batch cooking.