This creamy white chili recipe with ground turkey delivers a healthy, flavorful meal ready in under 45 minutes. Featuring lean ground turkey, white beans, green chilies, and aromatic spices, this protein-packed dish serves 6 with just 320 calories per serving. The secret to its rich flavor? A blend of cumin, coriander, and a splash of lime juice that elevates the mild turkey perfectly.
Searching for a healthier twist on traditional chili? This white chili recipe with turkey offers a lighter alternative without sacrificing depth of flavor. Unlike beef-based versions, ground turkey provides lean protein while allowing the bright notes of white beans and green chilies to shine. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this recipe balances convenience with homemade quality.
Why This Turkey White Chili Recipe Works
Most white chili recipes rely on chicken, but ground turkey brings unique advantages. Its mild flavor absorbs spices beautifully while keeping the dish lower in saturated fat. The combination of cannellini and great northern beans creates a creamy texture without heavy cream, making this naturally gluten-free white chili recipe suitable for various dietary needs.
Professional chefs appreciate how the acid from fresh lime juice brightens the earthy spices, while the touch of corn adds subtle sweetness that complements the lean turkey. This isn't just another quick white chili recipe using turkey—it's carefully balanced for maximum flavor in minimal time.
Turkey vs Chicken: Nutritional Profile Comparison
Choosing between poultry proteins requires understanding nutritional differences. USDA FoodData Central data reveals why turkey provides a strategic advantage for health-focused cooking:
| Nutrient (per 100g raw) | Ground Turkey (93% lean) | Ground Chicken (93% lean) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 135 kcal | 140 kcal |
| Protein | 21.5 g | 21.0 g |
| Total Fat | 5.0 g | 6.0 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5 g | 1.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 75 mg | 75 mg |
Source: USDA FoodData Central (Turkey), USDA FoodData Central (Chicken). Turkey's 17% lower saturated fat content supports heart-healthy meal planning while maintaining equivalent protein density.
Ingredients for Perfect White Chili with Turkey
Makes 6 servings | Total time: 40 minutes
| Ingredient | Amount | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Ground turkey (93% lean) | 1.5 lbs | Lean protein base that absorbs flavors without overpowering |
| Cannellini beans | 2 cans (15 oz each) | Creamy texture foundation, rich in fiber |
| Great northern beans | 1 can (15 oz) | Adds thickness and complementary texture |
| Green chilies | 4 oz can | Essential mild heat and authentic Southwestern flavor |
| Yellow onion | 1 medium, diced | Sweet base note that balances spices |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced | Depth of flavor without overpowering |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups | Better flavor foundation than water for turkey-based chili |
| Cumin | 2 tsp | Signature earthy note in white chili recipes |
| Coriander | 1.5 tsp | Citrusy complement to cumin that enhances turkey |
| Lime juice | 2 tbsp | Bright finish that elevates all other flavors |
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Brown the turkey: In a 5-quart pot over medium-high heat, cook ground turkey with diced onion until no pink remains (about 8 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
- Build flavor base: Add minced garlic, cumin, coriander, and oregano. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly.
- Combine liquids and beans: Stir in chicken broth, green chilies, corn, and both types of drained beans. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Simmer to perfection: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Stir occasionally.
- Finish with freshness: Remove from heat. Stir in lime juice and adjust salt to taste. For creamier texture, mash 1 cup of beans against the pot side before serving.
Pro Tips for the Best Turkey White Chili
- Avoid dry turkey: Don't overcook the ground turkey during browning. Remove from heat just as it loses its pink color.
- Bean texture control: For thicker chili, mash some beans with a potato masher before serving. For thinner consistency, add 1/2 cup extra broth.
- Flavor development: Let the chili rest for 10 minutes off heat before serving—this allows flavors to fully integrate.
- Make ahead: This easy turkey white chili recipe actually tastes better the next day as flavors continue to meld.
Serving Suggestions and Storage
Serve this healthy white chili recipe with ground turkey hot with your choice of toppings: fresh cilantro, diced avocado, shredded cheese, or a dollop of Greek yogurt. Pair with cornbread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Freeze portions for up to 3 months—thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. When reheating, add a splash of broth to restore the perfect consistency.
Nutritional Benefits
Each serving delivers 320 calories with 28g protein, 42g carbohydrates (14g fiber), and just 6g fat. The combination of two white bean varieties provides sustained energy while the lean turkey keeps saturated fat low. This white chili recipe with turkey and white beans offers a balanced meal that satisfies without heaviness—ideal for active lifestyles.
Dietary Context and Limitations
While highly adaptable, this recipe requires specific considerations for medical conditions:
- Chronic Kidney Disease: The high potassium content from beans (≈600mg per serving) may require modification for stages 3-5 CKD. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases recommends potassium restriction to 2,000-3,000mg daily in advanced stages [1]. Substitute half the beans with low-potassium green beans.
- Low-Sodium Diets: Standard preparation contains ≈800mg sodium per serving. For hypertension management (≤1,500mg daily), use no-salt-added beans and broth, and rinse beans thoroughly to reduce sodium by 40% [2].
- Gluten Sensitivity: Naturally gluten-free when using certified GF broth, but verify canned goods for potential cross-contamination.
Always consult healthcare providers for personalized dietary adjustments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken instead of turkey in this white chili recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground chicken for turkey using the same quantity. Both provide lean protein, but turkey has slightly less fat. For shredded chicken, use 2 cups of cooked, diced chicken added during the last 5 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking.
How do I make this white chili recipe thicker without adding more beans?
For a thicker consistency without additional beans, simmer uncovered for 5-10 extra minutes to reduce liquid. Alternatively, remove 1 cup of chili, blend until smooth, then stir back into the pot. This technique maintains the flavor balance while improving texture.
What's the best way to freeze turkey white chili?
Cool the chili completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers leaving 1-inch headspace for expansion. Label with date and contents. Frozen chili maintains best quality for 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove with a splash of broth.
Can I make this white chili recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Brown the turkey and sauté onions and spices as directed, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add lime juice and adjust seasonings just before serving for the freshest flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
This healthy white chili recipe with ground turkey is ideal for meal prep. The flavors improve after refrigeration, making it perfect for weekly planning. Portion into containers for 4-5 days of ready-to-heat lunches. The high protein and fiber content keeps you satisfied between meals.
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