I absolutely love how this Quick and Easy Maple Turkey Chili Recipe comes together on busy weeknights when I want something comforting without the fuss. It’s got this beautiful balance of smoky spices, hearty pinto beans, and just the right touch of sweetness from the maple syrup that makes it stand out from your usual chili. Whenever I make this, my family goes crazy for it – and bonus, it’s leaner than traditional beef chili, so it feels a bit lighter but still super satisfying.

What makes this Quick and Easy Maple Turkey Chili Recipe truly special is how accessible it is. You don’t need hours or a long list of fancy ingredients. I’ve found it’s perfect anytime you want a warm, filling meal that comes together fast but still tastes like you spent all day in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for yourself, this recipe hits the mark every time.

❤️

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Convenient: Ready in about an hour, it’s perfect for busy days but feels like a slow-cooked meal.
  • Balanced Flavors: The maple syrup adds a subtle sweetness that complements the smoky spices beautifully.
  • Lean & Healthy: Using ground turkey keeps it lighter without sacrificing richness or heartiness.
  • Family Favorite: My crew always asks for seconds — it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
A white bowl filled with a thick, dark red chili stew that has visible beans and ground meat mixed together; it is topped in the center with a smooth dollop of white sour cream, two green slices of avocado with black pepper sprinkled on them, and small green chives spread on top. Around the bowl on a white marbled surface, there are scattered tortilla chips and more green chives. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7 this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Quick and Easy Maple Turkey Chili Recipe plays a role in building deep, comforting flavor. You’ll find that the spices and sweet maple syrup create a unique twist while the turkey and beans provide hearty protein and fiber.

  • Olive oil: For sautéing the veggies and adding a subtle richness to the base.
  • Onion: Adds sweetness and depth; dice finely for a nice texture.
  • Red bell pepper: Brightens the chili with color and gentle sweetness.
  • Garlic: Gives that essential savory punch that every chili needs.
  • Salt and pepper: Basic seasoning that enhances every ingredient.
  • Lean ground turkey: A leaner protein choice that keeps things light but flavorful.
  • Chili powder: The heart of the spice mix — brings warmth and a little heat.
  • Smoked paprika: Adds smoky, earthy notes to deepen the flavor.
  • Dried oregano: Offers herbaceous balance.
  • Cumin: Warming spice that’s classic in chili recipes.
  • Crushed red pepper flakes: Adds just a hint of heat – adjust to your spice preference.
  • Fire roasted tomatoes: Gives a slightly smoky, caramelized tomato flavor.
  • Pinto beans: Creamy and hearty, they absorb the spices beautifully.
  • Chicken stock: Adds liquid and flavor without overpowering; control the thickness here.
  • Pure maple syrup: The secret touch that balances heat and acidity with subtle sweetness.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love experimenting with this Quick and Easy Maple Turkey Chili Recipe to suit whatever mood or dietary needs I have. You can easily tweak it to make it spicier, milder, or even vegetarian if you want. Don’t be shy about playing around to find your perfect version!

  • Spicy Variation: I once added extra crushed red pepper and a chipotle pepper in adobo – the smoky heat was next level.
  • Vegetarian Twist: Swap turkey for extra beans or lentils and use vegetable stock; it’s just as comforting and filling.
  • Seasonal Flair: In cooler months, adding diced sweet potatoes gives a sweet and earthy update my family adored.
  • Lower Carb Version: Skip the beans or serve over cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly meal.

How to Make Quick and Easy Maple Turkey Chili Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Your Aromatics to Build Flavor

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium-low heat. Toss in the diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. I like to stir these often for about 5 minutes until everything softens and releases those savory aromas that tell you chili is on the way. A tip I discovered is not to rush this part—you want the veggies tender, not brown, for the best base flavor.

Step 2: Brown the Turkey and Spice It Up

Next, add the ground turkey to the pot, seasoning again with salt and pepper. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it browns—this usually takes around 6 to 8 minutes. When the meat is nicely browned, sprinkle in chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir and cook everything for about 2 minutes so those spices toast just enough to deepen their flavors without burning.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Beans, Stock, and That Maple Magic

Pour in the fire-roasted tomatoes, drained pinto beans, chicken stock, and pure maple syrup. Give everything a good stir, then bring the pot to a boil before reducing to a gentle simmer. Cover it and let it cook for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This time lets the flavors mingle and the chili thicken slightly. I love sneaking tastes during the simmer to adjust seasoning if needed—feel free to add more salt or spice to suit your palate.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy Your Creation

Once your chili’s cooked, it’s ready to serve! I often top mine with avocado slices, a dollop of sour cream, and some crunchy tortilla chips for texture. This Quick and Easy Maple Turkey Chili Recipe always feels like a warm hug in a bowl—perfect for cozy dinners or casual get-togethers.

👨‍🍳

Pro Tips for Making Quick and Easy Maple Turkey Chili Recipe

  • Don’t Skip Toasting Spices: To really boost the flavor, give your chili powder and paprika a couple minutes in the pot after adding the turkey but before the liquids.
  • Adjust Liquid for Thickness: Depending on your pot and stove, you might want to add a bit more or less chicken stock for the ideal chili consistency.
  • Taste As You Go: I always taste right after simmering—sometimes a pinch more salt or an extra splash of maple syrup perfectly rounds the dish.
  • Avoid Overcooking Turkey: If you cook the turkey until dry, the chili feels tough. Aim for just browned and juicy for the best texture.

How to Serve Quick and Easy Maple Turkey Chili Recipe

A white bowl filled with a thick chili made of dark brown ground meat and light brown beans in a rich, reddish sauce. On top, there is a round dollop of white sour cream, sprinkled with small green chive pieces and black pepper. Two slices of bright green avocado, also sprinkled with chives and pepper, rest beside the sour cream. Light brown chip crumbs are scattered on the chili near the sour cream. A silver spoon sits inside the bowl on the right side. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, with pieces of tortilla chips around it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

My go-to garnishes for this chili are creamy avocado slices, a spoonful of tangy sour cream, and fresh chopped cilantro for brightness. Sometimes I’ll sprinkle shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese on top to add melty richness. These toppings not only enhance the flavors but also give every bite a fun texture contrast you’ll enjoy.

Side Dishes

I usually pair this Quick and Easy Maple Turkey Chili Recipe with warm tortilla chips for dipping or a crusty cornbread that soaks up all the good juices. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the meal, especially if you want something fresh on the side. For a heartier dinner, some roasted sweet potatoes go wonderfully with the cinnamon-ey notes from the chili spices.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like serving this chili in mini cast iron skillets or individual ramekins to make it feel extra cozy and festive. Another fun way is layering it in bowls with tortilla chips on the bottom, chili in the middle, and toppings on top for a “chili nacho bowl” vibe. This always gets compliments and makes dinner feel like a treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover Quick and Easy Maple Turkey Chili Recipe in airtight containers in the fridge, and it usually lasts me up to 4 days. This makes it a perfect option for easy weekday lunches or quick reheated dinners. Just make sure to cool it before sealing to keep it fresh longer.

Freezing

This chili freezes beautifully. I portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags, and it keeps well for up to 3 months. When I want a no-fuss meal, pulling out a pre-made batch is a total time saver. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

I reheat my leftovers gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Adding a splash of chicken stock or water helps loosen it up if it thickened too much in the fridge. Microwaving works too—just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between to avoid hot spots and dryness.

FAQs

  1. Can I make this Quick and Easy Maple Turkey Chili Recipe spicier?

    Absolutely! You can increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños when sautéing the veggies. If you like smoky heat, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce are an excellent addition too. Just remember to add spice gradually and taste as you go.

  2. Is there a vegetarian version of this chili?

    Yes! Simply replace the ground turkey with extra pinto beans, black beans, or lentils for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock, and follow the same spice and maple syrup steps. It’s equally delicious and hearty without meat.

  3. Can I use other sweeteners instead of maple syrup?

    You can substitute honey, agave nectar, or even brown sugar if you don’t have maple syrup on hand. Maple syrup is special because it adds a subtle woodsy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the smoky spices, but these alternatives work in a pinch.

  4. How do I thicken the chili if it’s too watery?

    Simply remove the lid and let it simmer uncovered for an extra 10-15 minutes to reduce liquid. Alternatively, stirring in a small spoonful of cornmeal or masa harina can help thicken it up without changing the flavor.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Quick and Easy Maple Turkey Chili Recipe enough—it’s become one of my favorite go-to meals for a reason. It’s fast, flavorful, and adaptable, which is just what you want when life gets busy but you still want something filling and delicious on the table. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll be on regular repeat in your home like it is in mine!

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Quick and Easy Maple Turkey Chili Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.8 from 87 reviews
  • Author: Lisa
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat
Print Recipe

Description

This Quick and Easy Maple Turkey Chili is a flavorful and hearty dish that combines lean ground turkey with fire-roasted tomatoes, pinto beans, and a sweet touch of pure maple syrup. Infused with a blend of chili powder, smoked paprika, and cumin, this chili is perfectly balanced with smoky, spicy, and subtly sweet elements. It’s a delicious, healthy comfort food option that can be made in just an hour and is ideal for serving a group of four.

Ingredients

Scale

Chili Base

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper

Protein and Spices

  • 1 pound lean ground turkey
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Other Ingredients

  • 1 (14 ounce) can fire roasted tomatoes
  • 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • ½ to ¾ cups chicken stock
  • ¼ cup pure maple syrup

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium-low heat. Add the diced onion, diced red bell pepper, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook until the vegetables soften, approximately 5 minutes.
  2. Brown the Turkey and Spice it Up: Add the lean ground turkey to the pot along with another pinch of salt and pepper. Break apart the turkey with a wooden spoon and cook until browned, about 6 to 8 minutes. Once cooked, stir in chili powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cumin, and crushed red pepper flakes. Let the spices cook and release their flavors for 2 minutes.
  3. Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the fire-roasted tomatoes, drained pinto beans, chicken stock (between ½ to ¾ cup), and pure maple syrup. Stir well, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 20 to 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  4. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, serve the chili hot with your choice of toppings like tortilla chips, avocado slices, or sour cream to enhance the flavor experience.

Notes

  • Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes according to your desired spice level.
  • The maple syrup adds a subtle sweetness that balances the spices; do not substitute with other syrups.
  • You can substitute chicken stock with vegetable broth for a different flavor profile.
  • For a thicker chili, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes to reduce liquid.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1/4 of recipe)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
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Hi, I’m Lisa Denton! From quick dinners to family favorites, I’m here to help you bring joy to the table, one recipe at a time.

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