Healthy Instant Pot Turkey Chili Recipe

Warm up with this comforting and flavorful Instant Pot Turkey Chili, a protein-packed one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights. It’s hearty, healthy, and ready in under an hour, no slow simmering required. This easy recipe delivers deep chili flavor with tender turkey, beans, and spices that make every bite satisfying. Save it to your dinner board for a quick and cozy weeknight meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in about 40 minutes thanks to the Instant Pot
• Packed with lean protein, fiber, and bold chili flavor
• Perfect for meal prep or freezing for later
• Customizable with your favorite toppings
• Great for family dinners, tailgates, or cozy nights in

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the turkey: Turn the Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add olive oil, then the ground turkey. Cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
2. Add the aromatics: Stir in onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
3. Add the seasonings: Mix in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the turkey evenly.
4. Add liquids and beans: Add tomato paste, diced tomatoes, beans, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
5. Pressure cook: Secure the lid, set the valve to Sealing, and cook on Manual or Pressure Cook mode for 15 minutes.
6. Natural release: Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then turn the valve to Venting to release remaining steam.
7. Serve: Stir well and taste for seasoning. Serve hot with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or cilantro.

Tips & Variations

• Add veggies: Stir in corn or diced zucchini for extra nutrition.
• Make it spicier: Add jalapeños or extra cayenne for more heat.
• Thicker chili: Use less broth or simmer on Sauté mode after cooking.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute turkey with lentils or plant-based meat.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove or microwave until heated through.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with warm cornbread or over white rice.
• Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, or green onions.
• Pair with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Serve with tortilla chips for a hearty chili bowl.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef for turkey. It will give a richer flavor, though the dish will have slightly more fat.

Can I make this without an Instant Pot?

Absolutely. Brown the turkey in a large pot, add ingredients, and simmer for 30–40 minutes until thickened and flavorful.

How can I make it thicker?

After pressure cooking, switch to Sauté mode and simmer for a few minutes uncovered to reduce excess liquid.

Is this chili spicy?

It’s mildly spicy. Adjust the cayenne or chili powder to your liking for more or less heat.

Ready to Make It?

This Instant Pot Turkey Chili is the perfect mix of hearty comfort and healthy flavor — fast, simple, and ideal for any night of the week. Save it to your favorite recipe board or share it with family for a cozy dinner everyone will love.

You Might Also Like

• Creamy Pumpkin Alfredo – A velvety pasta with creamy pumpkin sauce, comforting and rich.
• Roasted Garlic Mashed Cauliflower – Smooth, flavorful, and low-carb, a perfect side for any meal.
• Herbed Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken – Juicy chicken filled with creamy herbed cheese, elegant and delicious.
• Vegetable Pot Pie – Loaded with veggies and baked in a flaky crust for the ultimate comfort food.

Print