When autumn rolls around, there’s something magical about the air—the crisp breeze, the colorful leaves, and the comforting aroma of something hearty simmering on the stove. Few dishes capture that seasonal warmth quite like Turkey Apple Chili. It’s a delightful balance of savory and sweet, rich with lean turkey, tender vegetables, and just the right hint of spice.
Unlike traditional chili, this version brings a unique touch of freshness with apples and sweet potatoes that melt into the sauce as they cook. The result is a bowl full of flavor, warmth, and comfort—a dish that feels both familiar and surprising.
Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in, meal prepping for the week, or hosting a fall get-together, Turkey Apple Chili delivers wholesome satisfaction with every spoonful. Let’s explore how this flavorful chili comes together and why it deserves a permanent spot in your comfort food rotation.
Recipe Overview
This Turkey Apple Chili blends lean ground turkey with apples, sweet potatoes, and carrots for a subtly sweet and savory twist on the classic. Warm spices like sage, cinnamon, and nutmeg add depth, while crushed and strained tomatoes tie it all together into a rich, aromatic sauce. It’s hearty, colorful, and nourishing—perfect for chilly evenings or cozy weekends.
Ingredients & Instructions
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups sliced carrots (about 2 large carrots)
- 2 cups sliced sweet potatoes, halved and quartered (about 2 small)
- 2 cups diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp salt, divided
- ½ tsp pepper
- 1½ tsp rubbed sage, divided
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- A sprinkle of nutmeg
- 2 lbs ground lean turkey
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 3 cups crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups strained tomatoes (or marinara sauce)
- 1–2 cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add carrots, sweet potatoes, and apples. Sprinkle with onion powder, garlic powder, 1 teaspoon salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon sage, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Stir occasionally and let the mixture cook for about 5 minutes. The apples will soften slightly, and the aroma of the spices will fill your kitchen.
Tip: Choose firm apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji—they hold their shape beautifully when cooked.
2. Cook the Turkey
Add ground turkey to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it into smaller pieces as it browns. Cook for 5–7 minutes, until it’s no longer pink and nicely mixed with the vegetables.
The turkey will absorb the flavors of the apples and spices, creating a delicious foundation for the chili.
3. Add Tomato Paste and Spices
Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, ½ teaspoon sage, and the remaining 1 teaspoon salt. Mix thoroughly to evenly coat the turkey and vegetables.
Cooking the tomato paste briefly helps deepen the flavor and removes any tangy edge, giving your chili a rich, well-rounded taste.
4. Add Tomatoes and Simmer
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and strained tomatoes (or marinara sauce, if you prefer a smoother base). Stir well to combine everything.
Reduce the heat to low-medium and let the chili simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. During this time, the flavors will meld, and the vegetables will become tender while the sauce thickens beautifully.
5. Add Kidney Beans
In the final few minutes of cooking, stir in 1–2 cans of kidney beans. Let them warm through for about 5 minutes before serving.
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—some might prefer a little more salt, pepper, or chili powder for extra heat.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the chili into bowls and top it with your favorite garnishes: a sprinkle of fresh parsley, a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream, or a bit of shredded cheese.
This hearty, nutrient-packed chili pairs perfectly with a slice of cornbread or a piece of crusty bread for dipping.
Cooking Tips & Variations
1. Choose the Right Apples
Opt for firm, crisp apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji. They hold their shape better during cooking and balance the savory flavors with just the right amount of sweetness.
2. Adjust the Spice Level
If you love heat, add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or an extra dash of chili powder. For a milder version, keep it as-is and let the natural sweetness of the apples shine.
3. Go Vegetarian
Skip the turkey and use lentils or chopped mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version. Replace the chicken stock (if you add any) with vegetable broth for full plant-based flavor.
4. Add More Veggies
This chili is wonderfully flexible. Try adding bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for more color and texture.
5. Make It Ahead
The flavors of this chili deepen over time, so it’s perfect for meal prep. Cook it a day in advance and refrigerate—by the next day, it tastes even better!
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months in sealed freezer bags or containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until hot.
Serving Ideas
- Serve over rice, quinoa, or mashed sweet potatoes for a complete meal.
- Top with avocado slices, green onions, or shredded cheddar for extra flavor.
- Pair with a crisp green salad or warm cornbread for a cozy, balanced dinner.
There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Turkey Apple Chili on a cool evening. It’s the perfect fusion of sweet and savory—hearty ground turkey, tender veggies, and the gentle sweetness of apples all simmered in a rich, spiced tomato sauce.
Every spoonful brings warmth, nourishment, and comfort. Whether you make it as a weeknight dinner or for a gathering with loved ones, it’s a dish that satisfies the soul as much as the appetite. This chili isn’t just food—it’s a bowlful of cozy memories waiting to be made.
FAQs
1. Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, ground chicken works just as well! It has a similar texture and mild flavor that blends beautifully with the spices.
2. What type of apples should I use?
Firm, crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith are ideal—they hold up during cooking without becoming mushy.
3. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Brown the turkey first, then add all ingredients to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
4. Is this chili spicy?
Not very—it has mild warmth from the chili powder but is more savory and slightly sweet than spicy.
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! This chili freezes beautifully. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months and reheat when needed.
This Turkey Apple Chili combines lean turkey, sweet apples, and hearty vegetables in a savory, lightly spiced tomato base. A cozy, wholesome meal perfect for chilly nights!
