Healthy White Turkey Chili Avocado

This healthy white turkey chili with avocado and white beans is a light yet satisfying meal perfect for any season. It blends lean protein with creamy beans and fresh toppings for a comforting bowl that feels hearty without weighing you down.

I first made this recipe when I was looking for a nutritious way to enjoy chili flavors without the heavy tomato base, and it quickly became a household favorite that everyone asks for whenever the weather cools.

Ingredients

• One pound ground turkey lean around 93 percent: important for moist but healthy protein
• Two cans of white beans: such as cannellini or great northern rinsed well to reduce sodium
• Four cups low sodium chicken broth: for a gentle flavorful base
• Half a cup plain Greek yogurt: nonfat or low fat adds creaminess and tang alternative is light cream cheese
• One tablespoon olive oil: to sauté aromatics and brown the turkey
• One medium yellow onion: diced for sweetness and depth
• Three garlic cloves: minced for aroma and flavor complexity
• One can mild green chiles: offers subtle heat and depth
• One medium jalapeño: seeded and finely chopped optional for mild warmth
• Two teaspoons ground cumin: earthy essential chili note
• One teaspoon dried oregano: for herbaceous background
• One tablespoon chili powder: signature chili flavor
• Half teaspoon smoked paprika: optional adds smoky undertone
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: to taste
• One tablespoon fresh lime juice: brightens and balances the richness
• Quarter cup chopped fresh cilantro: optional fresh herbal garnish
• One avocado sliced: optional creamy topping
• Shredded cheese or crushed tortilla chips: optional for added texture and richness

Instructions

Prep ingredients:

Dice the onion finely and mince the garlic to release their aromas. Drain and rinse canned white beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium and starch. If using jalapeño remove seeds carefully for milder heat then chop finely. Open the can of green chiles and measure out your spices in advance so everything is ready.

Heat the pot:

Choose a large heavy bottomed pot or Dutch oven for even heating. Warm the olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers indicating it is hot enough to start cooking.

Sauté aromatics:

Add diced onion to the hot oil. Stir occasionally cooking for about four to five minutes until the onion becomes translucent and soft which builds a flavorful base. Add the minced garlic and jalapeño then continue cooking for another 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant being careful not to burn the garlic.

Brown the turkey:

Crumble the ground turkey into the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it up evenly. Cook about five to seven minutes until no pink remains. For extra lean turkey there may be little fat but if there is excess drain it to keep the chili lean.

Add spices and chiles:

Sprinkle in ground cumin dried oregano chili powder and smoked paprika if using. Stir everything together then add the can of green chiles. Cook for one to two minutes stirring constantly so the spices toast slightly and release their full flavor.

Add beans and broth:

Pour the drained white beans into the pot followed by the chicken broth. Stir everything together and bring the mixture up to a gentle simmer to meld flavors.

Simmer:

Reduce heat to medium low. Allow the chili to cook uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes stirring occasionally until slightly thickened and flavors fully developed.

Finish creamy base:

Remove the pot from heat. Stir in Greek yogurt or light cream cheese until fully incorporated and smooth. If the chili feels too thick add a splash of broth to loosen it to your preferred consistency.

Brighten and season:

Add fresh lime juice for a pop of brightness. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed to balance flavors.

Serve:

Ladle the chili into warm bowls. Top with chopped cilantro sliced avocado shredded cheese or crushed tortilla chips if desired. These fresh toppings add texture and vibrant flavors celebrating the chili’s rich but light profile.

This chili was a game changer in my weeknight cooking. I love the way the creamy Greek yogurt blends into the chili creating silky texture while keeping it light and fresh. The avocado topping feels like a little indulgence that elevates each bowl into a special meal. Sharing this at a family gathering once everyone was surprised how tasty and healthy chili could be without the usual tomato base is a memory I love.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. This chili reheats beautifully on the stove or in a microwave adding a little broth if it thickens too much. You can also freeze in portioned containers for up to three months which makes it perfect for busy days when you want a wholesome meal fast.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find ground turkey ground chicken or lean ground pork can be great alternatives and still keep the chili light. Substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream or low fat cream cheese if preferred. White beans may be swapped for navy beans or great northern beans depending on your pantry. Use vegetable broth to make it vegetarian but omit the turkey and increase beans accordingly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your chili with warm corn tortillas or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth. A crisp side salad or roasted vegetables also pairs well for a complete meal. For extra flair sprinkle on diced red onions or a squeeze of additional lime to amplify freshness. The shredded cheese option is delicious melted on warm chili for cozy comfort food vibes.

This recipe balances health and flavor perfectly making it ideal for any time of year.

FAQs about Recipes

→ What type of beans work best?

Cannellini or great northern beans provide a creamy texture that complements the turkey well.

→ Can I adjust the heat level?

Yes, omit the jalapeño for mild flavor or add extra green chiles for increased spice.

→ What is the purpose of Greek yogurt in this dish?

It adds a creamy richness while keeping the dish light and nourishing.

→ How should I cook the turkey for best texture?

Brown the ground turkey thoroughly, breaking it up evenly, to achieve a tender and well-cooked base.

→ Are there suggested garnishes?

Sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, and crushed tortilla chips all enhance texture and flavor.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, the flavors deepen when allowed to rest, making it ideal for meal prep.