This White Bean Turkey Chili Verde is a lighter twist on classic chili, made with lean ground turkey, creamy white beans, tangy salsa verde, green chilies, and warm spices. It is a one-pot dinner that is hearty, high in fiber, and perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd.
Why You’ll Love It
Unlike tomato-based chili, this version uses salsa verde for a bright, tangy flavor with gentle heat from green chilies and jalapeño. Ground turkey keeps it lean, while white beans add fiber and a creamy, satisfying texture.
It is also easy to make ahead and freezes well, so it is a great recipe for meal prep, game day, or easy entertaining. Chili recipes like this one are especially popular because they are filling, flexible, and easy to scale for a crowd.
Ingredients You Need
- Lean ground turkey for a lighter protein base.
- Onion, bell pepper, garlic, and jalapeño for savory flavor and gentle heat.
- Salsa verde for tang and a bright green flavor.
- Canned chopped green chilies for extra depth.
- Chicken broth to create the perfect simmering base.
- Cumin, coriander, oregano, and salt for classic chili seasoning.
- White beans, such as Great Northern or cannellini, for creaminess and fiber.
- A bay leaf for subtle herbal flavor.
How to Make It
Start by browning the ground turkey in a large heavy pot over high heat. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks, then transfer it to a bowl.
In the same pot, sauté the onion, bell pepper, garlic, and jalapeño until tender. Add the cumin, coriander, oregano, and salt, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Return the turkey to the pot, then add the salsa verde, green chilies, chicken broth, and bay leaf. Simmer uncovered for about 45 minutes so the flavors meld and the chili thickens.
Stir in the white beans and simmer for another 20 minutes. Ladle into bowls and add your favorite toppings.
Best Toppings
Top each bowl with shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack, sour cream or yogurt, chopped cilantro, avocado, red onion, or scallions. A squeeze of fresh lime adds a bright finishing touch.
For a complete meal, serve the chili with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple kale salad. A fresh salad balances the richness of the chili nicely.
Helpful Tips
Choose a salsa verde with tomatillos listed as one of the first ingredients for the best flavor. If you cannot find it, canned tomatillos can be used as a substitute.
You can use all white meat, all dark meat, or a mix of both for the ground turkey. Dark meat adds a little more richness, while white meat keeps the chili lighter.
If you want a milder chili, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño before cooking. For more heat, leave some seeds in or add an extra jalapeño.
Storage and Freezing
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
This chili also freezes beautifully. Cool it completely, then freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition Information
Estimated per serving, based on 8 servings.
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 367 | — |
| Total Fat | 14.8 g | 19% |
| Saturated Fat | 3.2 g | — |
| Cholesterol | 84.1 mg | 28% |
| Sodium | 1144.1 mg | 50% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 29.6 g | 11% |
| Dietary Fiber | 10.3 g | 37% |
| Sugars | 4.7 g | — |
| Protein | 30.8 g | 62% |
FAQ
Can I use white or dark meat turkey?
Yes. A combination works well, but all white meat or all dark meat will also be delicious.
What is the best salsa verde for this recipe?
Look for one that lists tomatillos as the first or second ingredient.
Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Yes. It tastes even better the next day and reheats well.
Can I freeze turkey chili?
Yes. Freeze it in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
White Bean Turkey Chili Verde is a flavorful, protein-packed alternative to traditional chili. With tangy salsa verde, tender turkey, creamy white beans, and warming spices, it is an easy one-pot meal that works just as well for weeknights as it does for gatherings.
If you enjoy hearty chili recipes, a thick vegetarian chili is another satisfying option, especially when made with plenty of vegetables, beans, and layered spices.
Easy White Bean Turkey Chili Verde
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add turkey, season with a pinch or two of salt, and cook, using a heavy wooden spoon to stir and break up any lumps, until turkey loses its pink color, about 5 minutes. Transfer turkey and any juices to a bowl and return pot to heat.
- Heat remaining 1 tablespoon oil over medium heat and sauté onion, garlic, bell pepper and jalapeño, stirring often, until tender and starting to brown, 4-5 minutes. Add spices – coriander, cumin, oregano and salt – and cook, stirring, for 30 seconds.
- Return turkey to pot and add the bay leaf, salsa verde, canned chiles and broth, reduce heat to a low simmer and cook gently, uncovered, for 45 minutes. Stir in beans and simmer gently for 20 minutes more.
- Serve chili in bowls and top with cilantro, onions, cheese, avocado and/or sour cream. Or serve toppings on the side.