Snowy Day Low Fat Chili

The first snowfall of the season had just started when my neighbor texted asking if I had anything warming to share. I threw together this lean turkey chili, and the way it filled the house with that familiar spice scent while snow piled up outside made it feel like the perfect cozy moment.

My brother-in-law, who insists on full-fat everything, actually went back for seconds and asked for the recipe. Now whenever winter weather hits, my phone lights up with friends asking if that turkey chili is simmering.

Ingredients

• Lean ground turkey: This becomes your flavor foundation without the grease, so do not skip browning it thoroughly
• Onion, red and green bell peppers, celery: The holy trinity plus peppers creates that classic chili base texture and sweetness
• Garlic cloves: Fresh is non-negotiable here, jarred garlic loses its punch in long simmer times
• Diced tomatoes with juice: All that liquid becomes part of your broth, so do not drain
• Kidney and black beans: Rinse them well to remove excess sodium and that canned metallic taste
• Low-sodium broth: You control the salt this way instead of letting the broth decide
• Chili powder: This is your main flavor driver, so use fresh spices if possible
• Ground cumin: Adds that earthy depth that makes chili taste like chili
• Smoked paprika: The secret ingredient that makes people ask what you did differently
• Dried oregano: Brightens up the heavier spices
• Cayenne pepper: Start with less, you can always add more heat but cannot take it back
• Salt and black pepper: Season as you go, the final adjustment matters most
• Olive oil: Just enough to get your vegetables started
• Tomato paste: Concentrates that tomato flavor and adds body to the broth

Instructions

Sauté the aromatics:

Heat olive oil in your large pot over medium heat, then add onion, both bell peppers, celery, and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes until everything softens and your kitchen starts to smell amazing.

Brown the turkey:

Add ground turkey to the pot, breaking it up with your spoon as it cooks. Let it go for 5 to 7 minutes until fully browned with no pink remaining.

Wake up the spices:

Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne if using, salt, and pepper. Stir constantly for 1 minute until the spices become fragrant, this step transforms everything.

Build the base:

Stir in tomato paste until well combined, then pour in diced tomatoes with all their juice, both cans of beans, and the broth.

Let it simmer:

Bring everything to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom.

Final adjustment:

Taste and add more salt or cayenne if needed, then serve hot. Top with chopped cilantro, green onions, or non-fat Greek yogurt if you want that cooling contrast.

Save

Last winter during a power outage, this chili kept six of us warm and fed for two days straight, and somehow it tasted even better reheated over the propane stove.

Making It Your Own

I have made this with ground chicken when turkey was not on sale, and honestly, no one noticed the difference. You can also skip the meat entirely and add an extra can of beans for a vegetarian version that still satisfies.

Freezer Stash

This recipe doubles beautifully, and I always keep a few containers in the freezer for those nights when cooking feels impossible. It thaws overnight in the fridge and reheats like a dream.

Serving Ideas

Sometimes I serve it over brown rice for extra staying power, other times with a simple green salad to cut the richness. Whole grain cornbread on the side turns it into a full meal.

• Warm some whole wheat tortillas on the side for dipping
• Keep hot sauce on the table for the heat seekers
• A squeeze of fresh lime right before serving brightens everything

Save

Snow outside, chili inside, and people you love around the table. Sometimes the simplest meals become the ones we remember most.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of meat is used in this chili?

Lean ground turkey is used to keep the dish flavorful yet low in fat.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can omit the turkey and increase the amount of beans for a satisfying vegetarian alternative.

→ What spices give this chili its flavor?

Chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and optional cayenne pepper combine for a robust, smoky taste.

→ How long does the cooking process take?

After a brief sauté and browning of ingredients, the chili simmers for about 30 minutes to develop flavors fully.

→ What are good side dishes to pair with this chili?

Whole grain rice, cornbread, or a fresh side salad complement the flavors and textures well.

→ Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free; just ensure broth and canned items are labeled gluten-free.