Instant Pot Turkey Chili is your go-to dish for a hearty meal that comes together quickly and easily. If you are looking for something warm, comforting, and full of flavor, this chili checks all the boxes. Packed with lean ground turkey, a medley of beans, and vibrant veggies, it’s a nutritious choice that’s perfect for chilly evenings or busy weeknights. With the convenience of the Instant Pot, you can have this delicious chili ready in no time, making it a staple in any modern kitchen.
Why We Love This Instant Pot Turkey Chili Recipe
This Instant Pot Turkey Chili recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience! The convenience of one-pot cooking means less cleanup for you, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal rather than worrying about the dishes. We love how versatile this dish is—it’s easily adjustable to suit your personal taste or dietary needs. Plus, turkey offers a healthier alternative to traditional chili meats while still delivering that rich, hearty flavor you crave. This recipe guarantees satisfaction whether you’re serving a family dinner, prepping for a game day gathering, or simply enjoying a cozy night in.
Ingredients about Instant Pot Turkey Chili
To create your Instant Pot Turkey Chili, you will need the following ingredients:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
How to Make Instant Pot Turkey Chili Directions
Making Instant Pot Turkey Chili is a simple process that packs a lot of flavors into one dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Sauté the Turkey: Start by setting your Instant Pot to sauté mode. When it’s hot, add the ground turkey. Cook it until it’s browned, stirring occasionally. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Browning the turkey adds depth to your chili’s flavor.
- Add Aromatics: Once your turkey is nicely browned, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell peppers to the pot. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes or until the veggies start to soften. The smell will already start to fill the kitchen!
- Season It Up: Now it’s time to bring in the spices. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined; the spices will elevate the dish and provide that signature chili taste.
- Incorporate the Rest of the Ingredients: Add the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth to the pot. Give it a good stir to mix everything together. The combination of beans adds protein and fiber, making this chili a filling meal.
- Cook Under Pressure: Close the lid of your Instant Pot and make sure the valve is set to sealing. Set it to cook on high pressure for 20 minutes. Once the timer goes off, carefully release the pressure, following your Instant Pot’s instructions for a quick or natural release.
- Finish and Serve: After you release the pressure, give the chili a good stir to ensure all the ingredients are well combined. At this point, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve your chili hot, and enjoy!
How to Serve Instant Pot Turkey Chili
Serving Instant Pot Turkey Chili can be as simple or fancy as you like. You might want to serve it in a deep bowl with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top for a pop of color and freshness. For an extra layer of flavor and texture, consider adding toppings such as shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or sliced jalapeños if you enjoy a little heat. You could also pair the chili with slices of warm cornbread or crunchy tortilla chips for dipping. The blend of flavors and textures will make each bite delightful, ensuring your meal is both satisfying and enjoyable.
Expert Tips: Instant Pot Turkey Chili
To get the best result from your Instant Pot Turkey Chili, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Don’t skip the sauté step: This is crucial for developing flavors. Browning the turkey and softening the vegetables first enhances the overall taste of the chili.
- Adjust the seasoning: Everyone’s palate is different. Taste your chili post-cooking and adjust the spices according to your preferences. You can add more chili powder for heat or a pinch of sugar to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Experiment with ingredients: This recipe is versatile! Feel free to swap out kidney beans for other varieties, or incorporate different peppers based on what you have on hand.
- Use quality broth: A good chicken broth can elevate your chili. If you have homemade stock, that would be even better!
- Let it sit: If you have the time, let your chili sit for a bit after cooking. It allows flavors to meld together and will taste even better the next day.
How to Store Instant Pot Turkey Chili
Storing your Instant Pot Turkey Chili is straightforward. Allow the chili to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a great option for meal prep. If you’d like to keep it longer, consider freezing it. It freezes well for about 3 months. Just be sure to label your containers with the date, so you know how long it has been stored. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated thoroughly.
Variation of Instant Pot Turkey Chili
There are countless variations you can create with Instant Pot Turkey Chili! Here are a few ideas to get your creativity flowing:
- Vegetarian Option: Replace ground turkey with a combination of lentils and more beans for a hearty vegetarian chili. You can also add more assorted vegetables to bulk it up.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy spicy food, throw in some chopped fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers. You could also include a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for an added punch.
- Sweet and Savory: For a unique twist, consider adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder or a hint of cinnamon for a different flavor profile.
- Northwest Style Chili: Incorporate some corn and diced sweet potatoes for a sweeter chili. Top with avocado slices to enhance the dish.
- Asian-influenced Chili: Add soy sauce and ginger as part of your seasoning and toss in some edamame for a unique twist on traditional chili.
FAQ
What makes Instant Pot Turkey Chili a healthy option?
Instant Pot Turkey Chili is a healthy meal choice because it uses lean ground turkey, which is lower in fat compared to traditional meats. Additionally, the beans provide fiber and protein, contributing to a well-rounded dish.
Can I make this chili without an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can definitely make this chili on the stovetop or in a slow cooker. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly. On the stovetop, you would simmer the ingredients for at least 30-45 minutes after browning the turkey to let the flavors meld together.
How spicy is Instant Pot Turkey Chili?
The spice level of your chili can be easily adjusted based on the amount of chili powder and any additional hot peppers you choose to add. The base recipe is mild, making it suitable for most palates while allowing you to spice it up or down as desired.
Can I add more vegetables into the chili?
Absolutely! Feel free to add in any of your favorite vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, or corn. Just remember to chop them small enough for even cooking.
How do I know when the chili is done?
Once the Instant Pot cooking time is complete and you’ve released the pressure, the chili should be well combined, and the turkey should be fully cooked. If you notice any undercooked ingredients, simply let it simmer for a few extra minutes on sauté mode.
Instant Pot Turkey Chili
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey Use lean ground turkey for a healthier option.
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes No salt added for a healthier option.
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder Adjust to taste for more heat.
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth Use quality broth for better flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and add the ground turkey. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell peppers to the pot. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to combine well.
- Add kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir to mix.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, carefully release the pressure following the Instant Pot instructions.
- Stir the chili, taste, and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving hot.
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