June 28, 2026 · 10 min

Smoky Turkey and Bean Chili with Jalapeño Crema

Snack10 min815 cal / serving

This hearty turkey chili comes together in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze. Ground turkey is seasoned with a southwest spice blend and simmered with crushed tomatoes, kidney beans and a touch of Tex-Mex paste for deep, smoky flavor. The result is a rich, satisfying chili that’s perfect for a cozy night in.

Top each bowl with a swirl of smoky red pepper crema, sliced jalapeño for heat and scallion greens for freshness. If you like a little crunch, crumble some tortilla chips on top just before serving. This chili is sure to become a weeknight favorite.


Recipe details

Snack10 min815 cal / serving2 servings

Nutrition per serving

Calories815 kcalProtein65.9 gFat38.5 gCarbs47.8 gSugar13.2 gFiber10.2 gSodium682 mg

Dietary labels

Gluten-free: yesLactose-free: noDairy-free: no

Allergen check

Gluten / wheat: not detectedMilk / dairy: containsEgg: not detectedFish: not detectedShellfish: not detectedPeanut: not detectedTree nuts: not detectedSoy: not detectedSesame: not detectedMustard: not detectedCelery: not detectedSulphites: not detectedLupin: not detectedMolluscs: not detected

Values are calculated per serving from ingredient amounts and the ingredient nutrition reference per 100g. Allergen and diet labels use available ingredient metadata and name matching; always check product labels for strict diets or allergies. Some ingredient amounts or nutrition values were incomplete, so this is marked as a partial estimate.


Ingredients

Scallions2 unit ScallionsView ingredient guide
Jalapeño1 unit JalapeñoView ingredient guide
Crushed Tomatoes13.76 ounce Crushed TomatoesView ingredient guide
Ground Turkey10 ounce Ground TurkeyView ingredient guide
Tomato Paste1 unit Tomato PasteView ingredient guide
Tex-Mex Paste1 unit Tex-Mex PasteView ingredient guide
Kidney Beans1 unit Kidney BeansView ingredient guide
SaltSalt, to tasteView ingredient guide
PepperPepper, to tasteView ingredient guide
Cooking Oil2 teaspoon Cooking OilView ingredient guide

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry all produce. Trim and thinly slice scallions, separating white and green parts. Thinly slice half the jalapeño into rounds; mince the remaining half. (Tip: Remove ribs and seeds for less heat.)
  2. Heat a large drizzle of oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add scallion whites and as much minced jalapeño as you like. Season with salt. Cook, stirring, until softened, 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add ground turkey and southwest spice blend to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Cook, breaking up the meat, until browned and cooked through, 4-6 minutes.
  4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste and Tex-Mex paste. Cook until slightly darkened, 1-2 minutes.
  5. Add the kidney beans (with their liquid), chicken stock concentrates, ¼ cup water (½ cup for 4 servings), salt and pepper. Stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, 8-10 minutes. (If chili is too thick, stir in a splash of water.) Taste and adjust seasoning.
  6. Divide chili among bowls. Top with smoky red pepper crema, scallion greens and sliced jalapeño to taste. Serve.

Recipe Tips

For a milder chili, remove the seeds and ribs from the jalapeño before mincing.

If you like extra heat, add more jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and taste even better the next day.

FAQ

Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef for the turkey. Just adjust the cooking time as needed until the beef is browned and cooked through.

What can I use instead of smoky red pepper crema?

If you don’t have smoky red pepper crema, you can use sour cream mixed with a pinch of smoked paprika and a little chopped roasted red pepper.

Can I make this chili in advance?

Absolutely! This chili stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed.

DandyRecipes community

Rate and discuss this recipe

Your rating and comments help other DandyRecipes readers decide what to cook next.

Your recipe vote

No DandyRecipes user votes yet.

Recipe comments

0 DandyRecipes comments

No DandyRecipes comments yet.

More recipe ideas

12 similar recipes you might like

These suggestions are based on shared ingredients, meal type, and recipe metadata.