Smoky Turkey and Lentil Chili Bowls with Cilantro Lime Rice

Warm up with a bowl of this smoky, satisfying chili that brings together ground turkey, lentils and a rich tomato base. The cumin and Mexican spice blend add depth, while sautéed scallions and green pepper provide a savory foundation. Served over fluffy jasmine rice, each bite is balanced with cool sour cream and melted cheese.

This recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. The chili comes together quickly and the toppings let everyone customize their bowl. A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens the flavors, making it a meal that feels both comforting and fresh.

Log in to save recipes and build weekly shopping lists.

Ingredients

1 unit Veggie Stock ConcentrateView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

3 tablespoon Sour CreamView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

10 ounce Ground TurkeyView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 unit Tomato PasteView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

0.5 cup Jasmine RiceView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 teaspoon CuminView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 unit LentilsView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 unit Long Green PepperView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

3 clove GarlicView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 unit LimeView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

2 unit ScallionsView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 tablespoon Mexican Spice BlendView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

0.5 cup Mexican Cheese BlendView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 teaspoon (tsp) Cooking OilView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

teaspoon (tsp) SaltView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

teaspoon (tsp) Black PepperView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

0.25 teaspoon (tsp) SugarView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

Instructions

1. In a small pot, combine rice, ¾ cup water (1½ cups for 4 servings) and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce to a low simmer. Cook until rice is tender, 15-18 minutes. Keep covered off heat until ready to serve.
2. While rice cooks, wash and dry produce. Trim and thinly slice scallions, separating whites from greens. Core, deseed and finely dice green pepper. Peel and mince or grate garlic. Quarter lime.
3. Heat a drizzle of oil in a medium pot (large pot for 4 servings) over medium-high heat. Add scallion whites and green pepper; cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and softened, 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in garlic, cumin and Mexican Spice Blend; cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, 30 seconds.
4. Stir in lentils and their liquid, tomato paste, stock concentrate, ½ cup water and ¼ tsp sugar (1 cup water and ½ tsp sugar for 4 servings). Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cook, stirring frequently, until flavors meld and chili has thickened slightly, 8-10 minutes. TIP: If chili seems too thick, stir in more water a splash at a time. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
5. Fluff rice with a fork. Divide chili between bowls. Top with rice, sour cream, as much Mexican cheese blend as you like and scallion greens. Serve with a squeeze of lime juice and remaining lime wedges on the side.

Recipe Tips

FAQ

Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?

Yes, ground beef works well in this recipe. Cook it the same way as the turkey, draining any excess fat if needed.

Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Absolutely! Omit the turkey and add an extra can of lentils or black beans. You may need to adjust the liquid and simmer time.

How do I store leftovers?

Store the chili and rice separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed.