There’s something about a simmering pot of chili that makes any day feel warmer and cozier. The aroma fills the kitchen, the flavors deepen with each stir, and before you know it, you’ve got a bowl of comfort that feels like home. This Turkey Apple Chili is a creative spin on the traditional version—lighter, brighter, and bursting with a touch of sweetness.
It’s a balance of savory and sweet that works beautifully. Lean ground turkey adds a hearty yet healthy base, while apples, sweet potatoes, and carrots bring natural sweetness and texture. The addition of cinnamon, sage, and nutmeg adds an autumn-inspired flavor that sets this chili apart from the classic tomato-and-beef kind.
Whether you’re craving something wholesome for a weeknight dinner, meal prep for the week, or a crowd-pleasing dish for a fall gathering, this recipe delivers. It’s nourishing, satisfying, and has that “one more spoonful” kind of charm.
Recipe Overview
Turkey Apple Chili is a hearty, comforting one-pot meal that blends lean ground turkey, sweet apples, and earthy vegetables in a tomato-rich sauce. It’s lightly spiced with chili powder and fragrant with sage and cinnamon, creating a unique flavor profile that’s both savory and subtly sweet. Perfect for cozy dinners, family meals, or chilly nights when you need something warm and nourishing.
Ingredients & Instructions
Here’s how to bring this delicious and wholesome dish together step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups sliced carrots (about 2 large carrots)
- 2 cups sliced sweet potatoes, halved and quartered (about 2 small sweet potatoes)
- 2 cups diced apple (about 2 medium apples)
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp salt, divided
- ½ tsp pepper
- 1½ tsp rubbed sage, divided
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- A sprinkle of nutmeg
- 2 lbs ground lean turkey
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 3 cups crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups strained tomatoes (or marinara sauce)
- 1–2 cans kidney beans
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Vegetables and Fruit
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced apples, sweet potatoes, and carrots. Sprinkle with onion powder, garlic powder, 1 tsp salt, pepper, 1 tsp sage, cinnamon, and a dash of nutmeg.
Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture becomes fragrant and the vegetables start to soften slightly.
Tip: Choose firm, slightly tart apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith—they hold their shape and balance the chili’s warmth beautifully.
2. Brown the Turkey
Add the ground turkey to the pot. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook for 5–7 minutes, until it’s no longer pink. Stir well so it mixes evenly with the vegetables and spices.
This is where the foundation of flavor begins—allowing the meat to absorb all those aromatic spices and natural sweetness from the apples.
3. Add Tomato Paste and Spices
Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, ½ tsp sage, and 1 tsp salt. Mix thoroughly so the tomato paste coats everything evenly and starts to caramelize slightly. This step deepens the chili’s flavor.
4. Pour in the Tomatoes
Add crushed tomatoes and strained tomatoes (or marinara sauce) to the pot. Stir until everything is well combined.
Reduce the heat to low-medium and simmer uncovered for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The vegetables should become tender, and the flavors will blend beautifully into a rich, savory-sweet sauce.
5. Add the Kidney Beans
Once the chili has thickened and the vegetables are cooked through, stir in the kidney beans. Let everything heat together for about 5 minutes before serving.
Taste and adjust seasonings—add a pinch more salt, chili powder, or sage depending on your preference.
Cooking Tips & Variations
1. Add Some Heat
If you like a little spice, add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce. The sweet apples and carrots balance the spice beautifully.
2. Choose the Right Apple
For the best texture and flavor, pick apples that are firm and crisp—Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady are great options. Avoid softer varieties like Red Delicious, which can become mushy.
3. Make It Vegetarian
Skip the turkey and substitute two cans of lentils or white beans for a hearty plant-based version. Add extra tomato paste for thickness.
4. Add More Veggies
Zucchini, bell peppers, or even corn make great additions for more color and nutrition.
5. Depth of Flavor
For a richer taste, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or maple syrup before serving—it enhances both the sweetness and tanginess.
6. Slow Cooker Option
To make it in a slow cooker: sauté the veggies and turkey first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Serving Ideas
This chili shines on its own, but here are some ideas to elevate it:
- Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for creaminess.
- Add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack.
- Pair with cornbread, crusty bread, or a side salad for a complete meal.
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions just before serving adds a burst of freshness that balances the hearty flavors.
Turkey Apple Chili is more than just a fall-inspired meal—it’s a wholesome bowl of comfort that brings together unexpected flavors in the most satisfying way. The sweet apples and hearty turkey create a perfect harmony of savory and sweet, while the warm spices and tender vegetables make every bite deeply comforting.
It’s proof that chili doesn’t have to be heavy or predictable. With one pot, simple ingredients, and 45 minutes, you can have a meal that’s healthy, filling, and full of character. Whether you’re making it for meal prep or a cozy family dinner, this dish is bound to become a repeat favorite.
FAQs
1. Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes! Ground chicken works just as well and gives the chili a lighter flavor.
2. What kind of apples work best?
Firm apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady hold up beautifully during cooking.
3. Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Absolutely. In fact, chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen overnight.
4. Is this chili spicy?
Not by default. It’s mild with just a touch of warmth from the chili powder, but you can easily add heat with cayenne or hot sauce.
5. What can I serve with it?
Crusty bread, cornbread, or even a scoop of rice make great accompaniments.
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This hearty Turkey Apple Chili blends lean ground turkey, sweet apples, and warm spices for a comforting twist on classic chili. Perfect for cozy dinners or healthy meal prep!
