Looking for a hearty and flavorful chili to warm you up on a cold winter night? This Cranberry Turkey Chili offers the perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and savory flavors. Packed with lean ground turkey, sweet dried cranberries, and a rich medley of spices, this chili is perfect for those who want to enjoy a healthy yet indulgent dish. Even without beans, this chili offers all the deliciousness you’d expect from a classic chili recipe, with an added twist that makes it extra special.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or preparing a simple weeknight dinner, this chili will impress. It’s also great for feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Table of Contents
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For this Cranberry Turkey Chili, you’ll need a few staple ingredients, including ground turkey and dried cranberries. Here’s everything you’ll need to gather for the chili:
- 2 pounds ground turkey
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 white onions, chopped
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 1 cup water
- Chili seasoning mix (recipe below)👇🏻
- 1 small can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 large can (32 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 package sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups frozen corn kernels
- 1 ½ cups dried cranberries
- ½ bottle red wine (pinot noir)
Chili Seasoning Mix:
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ¾ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 3 teaspoons salt
- 3 teaspoons black pepper
How to Make Cranberry Turkey Chili:
Step 1: Prepare the Turkey and Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing for about 2 minutes until fragrant and softened. Then, add the ground turkey, stirring occasionally to ensure it’s fully cooked and browned.
Step 2: Add Water and Seasoning
Reduce the heat to medium. Add water and the chili seasoning mix into the pot. Stir everything well to ensure the turkey is well-seasoned and the spices are evenly distributed. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Veggies
Once the turkey is cooked and well-seasoned, stir in tomato paste, diced tomatoes, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and frozen corn kernels. Add ½ cup of the dried cranberries for a pop of tartness and sweetness. Stir everything together to combine, and then add red wine. Let the chili simmer for an hour or two on low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure everything cooks through.
Step 4: Final Touches
After the chili has simmered and the flavors have blended together, add the remaining dried cranberries to give the chili a burst of sweetness and texture. Stir gently and let everything simmer for another 5 minutes. Your Cranberry Turkey Chili is now ready to serve!
Serving Suggestions:
This healthy chili pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. You can serve it over steamed rice, enjoy it with a side of cornbread, or even pair it with a fresh salad. It’s also delicious on its own with a garnish of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for an extra touch of flavor.
For those looking to reduce carbs, you can enjoy it as-is or serve it over cauliflower rice. This chili also freezes beautifully, making it a great dish to prepare in advance and have ready for a busy day.
Why This Chili Is Perfect for the Holidays:
The combination of cranberries and turkey makes this dish not only flavorful but also seasonal. The addition of dried cranberries brings a festive touch to the chili, making it ideal for holiday parties or gatherings. Plus, the recipe is easy to double or triple, so you can make a large batch to feed a crowd.
Nutritional Information:
Each serving of Cranberry Turkey Chili is packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making it a wholesome meal for any occasion. With lean turkey as the base, it’s a healthier alternative to traditional chili made with beef, and the dried cranberries offer a unique, nutritious twist.
- Calories: 610
- Fat: 30.8g
- Protein: 35.8g
- Carbs: 44.7g
- Fiber: 5.4g
- Sugar: 26.7g
Conclusion:
This Cranberry Turkey Chili is not just a delicious dish—it’s a healthy and hearty alternative to traditional chili. With its vibrant flavors and the sweet addition of cranberries, this chili stands out as a perfect meal for chilly days, holiday celebrations, or casual family dinners. It’s a great way to enjoy the benefits of lean turkey while still indulging in a comfort food classic.
Enjoy creating this cozy, flavorful meal, and share it with family and friends—whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something tasty and warming!