If you are craving a hearty, comforting meal that comes together in a flash, this White Bean Turkey Chili: Gluten-Free, 30 Minutes Recipe is a true gem to add to your culinary rotation. Packed with tender shredded turkey, creamy white beans, and a burst of zesty spices, it’s a nourishing dish that satisfies the soul without weighing you down. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something wholesome and flavorful, this chili offers a delightful balance of protein, warmth, and a little kick that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients is all it takes to create this delicious White Bean Turkey Chili: Gluten-Free, 30 Minutes Recipe. Each component plays a vital role — from the fresh aromatics that build your base, to the beans and turkey that add texture and heartiness, and the spices that give it that unforgettable warmth and depth.
- Olive oil: For sautéing onions and garlic, adding a smooth richness to the start of the chili.
- Minced garlic: Brings a fragrant, savory punch that brightens the dish.
- Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth when cooked down gently.
- Chopped cilantro: Lends a fresh, herbal note that complements the spices.
- Shredded turkey: The lean protein powerhouse that makes this chili hearty yet light.
- Cannellini or white northern beans: Creamy and soft, they provide a lovely body to the chili.
- Canned corn: Adds a touch of sweetness and a pop of color.
- Diced green chiles: Offers mild heat and a subtle smoky flavor.
- Chicken broth: Creates a flavorful, savory base and helps all flavors merge beautifully.
- Greek yogurt: Used to finish the chili with a creamy tang without overpowering the dish.
- Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy undertone essential for any chili.
- Oregano: Brings an herbal brightness that balances the spices.
- Chili powder: Builds up the chili’s signature mildly spicy warmth.
- Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky sweetness and rich color.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, ensuring every flavor shines just right.
- Optional toppings (cilantro, avocado, shredded cheese, jalapeños, green onion): Add personality and texture when serving.
How to Make White Bean Turkey Chili: Gluten-Free, 30 Minutes Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Your Aromatics
Begin by heating olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant — usually about 3 to 5 minutes. This simple step builds an aromatic foundation that gives the chili much of its flavor character.
Step 2: Incorporate Fresh Cilantro
Next, add the chopped cilantro to the pot and stir it into the softened onions and garlic for about a minute. This bright herbal note layers freshness into the dish and balances the spices to come.
Step 3: Add the Main Ingredients
Now, pour in your shredded turkey, drained cannellini beans, corn, diced green chiles, chicken broth, and all the delicious spices — cumin, oregano, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well so the flavors mingle evenly before bringing the pot to a simmer.
Step 4: Simmer and Mash
Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and cover your pot. Let the chili cook gently for 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Then, take a potato masher and mash some of the beans 3 to 4 times right in the pot; this thickens the chili and adds a wonderful textured creaminess.
Step 5: Final Simmer and Finish
Let the chili simmer uncovered for another 5 minutes to thicken further. Remove the pot from heat and gently stir in the creamy Greek yogurt. This step adds a silky texture and a refreshing tang, rounding out the dish beautifully.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle your White Bean Turkey Chili: Gluten-Free, 30 Minutes Recipe into bowls and get ready for the best part — adding your favorite toppings! Whether you go classic with cilantro and shredded cheese or fancy it up with avocado slices and jalapeños, this chili welcomes all delicious add-ons.
How to Serve White Bean Turkey Chili: Gluten-Free, 30 Minutes Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes elevate this chili from tasty to spectacular! Fresh cilantro adds a burst of green freshness, chopped green onions bring a mild sharpness, sliced jalapeños offer extra heat, creamy avocado imparts coolness, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese melts enticingly over the warm bowl. Don’t be shy—pile on your favorites for the ultimate chili experience.
Side Dishes
This chili shines brightly on its own, but pairing it with warm cornbread, a crisp green salad, or even simple tortilla chips takes the meal to the next level. The cornbread’s subtle sweetness contrasts beautifully with the chili’s smoky spices, while tortilla chips add an irresistible crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not turn this chili into a festive dip for a crowd? Serve it in a slow cooker with bowls of toppings and chips for a casual gathering. Alternatively, spoon it over baked sweet potatoes for a hearty, balanced meal stuffed with flavor and nutrition. The versatility and ease of this White Bean Turkey Chili: Gluten-Free, 30 Minutes Recipe make it perfect for many occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. This chili keeps wonderfully for up to 4 days, making it a fantastic choice for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze this chili for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before placing it in freezer-safe containers or bags. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat your chili gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the chili thickened too much in the fridge, add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Avoid boiling, especially after adding the Greek yogurt, to keep its creamy finish intact.
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Shredded chicken breast works just as well and will still make this chili hearty and delicious. Just swap it in with the same amount as turkey.
Is this recipe spicy?
This chili features a mild to moderate spice level thanks to the diced green chiles and chili powder. You can adjust the heat by adding more jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper according to your taste.
Can I make this chili vegan or vegetarian?
You can transform this recipe by replacing the turkey with hearty vegetables or plant-based protein like tempeh or mushrooms and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, sour cream is a great alternative that will provide similar creaminess and tang to finish the chili.
Can this chili be made thicker or thinner?
Definitely! To thicken, mash more beans or simmer uncovered longer. For a thinner chili, simply add extra chicken broth or water until you reach your preferred consistency.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you give this White Bean Turkey Chili: Gluten-Free, 30 Minutes Recipe a try — it’s one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Simple to prepare with clean ingredients and bursting with flavor, this chili truly earns a place in your regular lineup. Once you taste the blend of creamy beans, tender turkey, and perfectly balanced spices, you’ll understand why it’s a personal favorite that’s so easy to love.
Print
White Bean Turkey Chili: Gluten-Free, 30 Minutes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup/Chili
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and flavorful White Bean Turkey Chili that is gluten-free and ready in just 30 minutes. This comforting chili combines tender shredded turkey, creamy cannellini beans, and a blend of spices, simmered to perfection and finished with Greek yogurt for a creamy touch. Perfect for a quick, nutritious meal with optional toppings to customize your bowl.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 cup chopped cilantro
- 3–4 cups shredded turkey
Beans and Vegetables
- 3 (14 oz) cans cannellini beans or white northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn
- 2 (4.5 oz) cans diced green chiles
Liquids and Dairy
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
Spices
- 1/2 tablespoon cumin
- 1/2 tablespoon oregano
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- Cilantro
- Avocado
- Shredded cheese
- Jalapeños
- Green onion
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large stock pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Stir in the chopped cilantro and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma.
- Add Main Ingredients: Incorporate the shredded turkey, drained cannellini beans, canned corn, diced green chiles, chicken broth, and all the spices including cumin, oregano, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Simmer the Chili: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it cook for 25 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the chili to thicken.
- Mash Beans to Thicken: After simmering, use a potato masher to lightly mash some of the beans 3-4 times directly in the pot. This will help thicken the chili and add texture.
- Finish Cooking: Let the chili simmer uncovered for an additional 5 minutes. Then remove the pot from heat and stir in the Greek yogurt to add a creamy, tangy finish.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the chili into bowls and add your choice of optional toppings such as fresh cilantro, avocado slices, shredded cheese, jalapeños, or green onion for extra flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute shredded chicken breast for turkey if preferred.
- Frozen corn can be used instead of canned corn.
- Sour cream is a suitable alternative for Greek yogurt.
- For a thinner chili, add an extra cup of water or broth as desired.
