This protein-packed turkey and lentil chili is a wholesome, comforting dish that’s perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner. It’s rich in flavor, high in fiber, and made with nutritious ingredients for a satisfying meal.
- Total Cooking Time: 50 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
Contents
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 500 g (1 lb) ground turkey
- 1 cup (200 g) dried lentils (green or brown), rinsed
- 1 can (400 g) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups (500 ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (250 ml) tomato sauce
- 1 small bell pepper, diced
- 1 small carrot, diced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp lime juice (optional)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Substitutions:
- Vegetarian option: Swap turkey for extra lentils or black beans.
- Spicier version: Add cayenne pepper or extra chili powder.
- Low-carb option: Reduce lentils and add more turkey and vegetables.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Brown the Turkey:
- Add ground turkey to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles.
- Add the Vegetables & Spices:
- Stir in bell pepper, carrot, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook for 2 minutes to release the flavors.
- Simmer the Chili:
- Add lentils, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth.
- Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 30–35 minutes until lentils are tender.
- Stir occasionally and add more broth if needed.
- Final Touches & Serving:
- Stir in lime juice for extra brightness (optional).
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 32 g
- Fats: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 12 g
- Sugar: 8 g
Vitamins & Benefits
- Lentils: High in fiber and plant-based protein.
- Turkey: Lean protein for muscle growth and recovery.
- Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.
Did you know? Lentils have been a staple food for over 8,000 years, making them one of the oldest cultivated crops!
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a pot over medium heat.
FAQ
❓ Can I use canned lentils?
✔️ Yes! Reduce the broth by half and add canned lentils in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
❓ How do I thicken the chili?
✔️ Simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes, or mash some of the lentils.
❓ What toppings go well with this chili?
✔️ Try avocado, Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, or jalapeños!
