Name: Turkey Sweet Potato Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lb ground turkey; 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado, chopped cilantro

Turkey Sweet Potato Chili a cozy, hearty chili that brings together lean ground turkey, sweet potatoes, two kinds of beans, and a rich blend of spices for a comforting one-pot meal. This is one of my favorite dishes to make when the temperatures drop—it’s warm, filling, and loaded with nutrients, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this chili balances flavor and nutrition in every bite. The sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and heartiness, while the beans and turkey pack in the protein. It’s easy to make in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, it’s customizable with different toppings, and it gets even better the next day. Whether I’m cooking for my family or making a big batch to store for the week, this recipe never disappoints.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 lb ground turkey

1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced

1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes

2 cups chicken broth

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon cumin

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado, chopped cilantro

Directions

I start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

Then I add diced onions and cook them for about 2–3 minutes until they soften. I stir in the garlic and let it cook for another 30 seconds.

I add the ground turkey and cook it until browned, using a spoon to break it apart.

Once the turkey is cooked, I stir in the diced sweet potatoes, black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and chicken broth.

I mix in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, then stir everything together well.

Then I bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 25–30 minutes, until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender.

I taste the chili and adjust the seasonings as needed before serving it hot with my favorite toppings.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Calories: Approximately 330 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes swap the ground turkey for ground chicken or beef if that’s what I have on hand.

For extra spice, I like to add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

If I want a vegetarian version, I skip the meat entirely and double up on the beans.

Adding corn or bell peppers gives the chili more texture and a slightly sweet crunch.

For a smoky flavor boost, I use fire-roasted diced tomatoes instead of regular ones.

Storage/Reheating

I let the chili cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and in the freezer for up to 3 months. When I’m ready to eat, I reheat it on the stove over medium heat or microwave it in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot. If it thickens in the fridge, I just add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.

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FAQs

How can I make this chili spicier?

I add a chopped jalapeño, a dash of cayenne pepper, or some hot sauce to turn up the heat in this chili.

Can I freeze this chili?

Yes, I freeze it in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. It’s perfect for quick meals on busy days.

What kind of beans can I use instead?

I like using black beans and kidney beans, but pinto beans or white beans work great too if that’s what I have in the pantry.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, after browning the turkey and sautéing the onions and garlic, I transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.

Is this chili gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and hearty choice for anyone avoiding gluten.

Conclusion

This Turkey Sweet Potato Chili is one of those recipes I keep coming back to—it’s hearty, healthy, and so easy to make. I love that it uses simple ingredients to create something that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether I’m feeding a group or prepping meals for the week, this chili always hits the spot.

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