Welcome to the delightful dish of White Chili with Turkey. This light, flavorful dish is a fantastic alternative to traditional chili, making great use of leftover turkey. It's packed with a balance of spices and hearty white beans to keep you satisfied and wanting more.
Most ingredients for this White Chili with Turkey recipe should be readily available in your pantry or local grocery store. However, if you are not familiar with white beans such as cannellini or navy beans, they are a type of legume high in fiber, protein, and various nutrients. You can find them dried or canned in the beans and pulses section. Also, note that the turkey stock can be found in the soup aisle, but feel free to substitute it with chicken stock if preferred.
Ingredients for White Chili Recipe with Turkey
Dry white beans: These are the base of the chili, providing a heartiness and creaminess. You can use canned for convenience, but dried beans have a superior texture and flavor.
Turkey stock: This brings a depth of flavor and forms the broth of the chili. It can be homemade or store-bought.
Garlic: Adds a punch of flavor.
Onions: Gives the chili a sweet base flavor.
Extra virgin olive oil: Used for sautéing the onions and garlic, it adds richness.
Jalapeno or serrano pepper: Adds a kick of heat. Adjust to your spice preference.
Ground cumin, oregano, cloves, and cayenne pepper: This blend of spices contributes to the distinctive flavor of the chili.
Green chilies: These provide a gentle heat and tanginess.
Turkey: The star ingredient, leftover or freshly cooked turkey can be used.
Salt: Brings out the flavors of the other ingredients.
Monterey jack cheese, cilantro, green onions, avocado, and tomatoes or salsa: These are used as garnishes, adding freshness, creaminess and extra flavor.
One reader, Joelie Mattox says:
This white chili recipe with turkey is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the turkey adds a delicious twist. The blend of spices and the creamy texture make it a perfect comfort food. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Techniques for Preparing White Chili with Turkey
How to cook dry beans: Soak the dry white beans in water overnight. Drain and rinse the beans, then cook them in turkey stock with onions until they are very soft, which can take 1 to 3 hours or more, depending on the type of white beans used.
How to cook beans in a pressure cooker: Combine the soaked and drained beans, turkey stock, and onions in a pressure cooker. Cook on high pressure for 30 minutes, then let it release naturally for 10 minutes.
How to prepare the garnishes: Grate the Monterey Jack cheese, chop the cilantro and green onions, and slice the avocado. Optionally, prepare some fresh chopped tomatoes or salsa to serve with the chili.
How to serve the chili: Ladle the white turkey chili into bowls and top with grated cheese. Garnish with cilantro, chopped fresh tomato, salsa, chopped green onions, and/or avocados. Serve with fresh warmed flour tortillas or tortilla chips.
How To Make Turkey White Chili
Leftover turkey from Thanksgiving? Turkey white chili brings a new twist to the traditional chili with white beans, green chilis, and lots of garlic.
Serves:
Ingredients
- ½lbdry white beans,soaked overnight in water, drained
- 3cupsturkey stock
- 1garlic cloves,minced
- 1medium onions,chopped, divided
- 1tbspextra virgin olive oil
- 1jalapeno,or serrano pepper, stem and most seeds removed, chopped, optional
- 1tspground cumin
- 1tsporegano,dried
- pinchground cloves
- ¼tspcayenne pepper
- 2cansgreen chilies,chopped
- 2cupsturkey,diced cooked
- salt,to taste
For the Garnishes and Extras:
- 1½cupsmonterey jack cheese,grated
- ⅓cupcilantro,chopped
- ¼cupgreen onions,chopped
- 1avocado,pitted, peeled, and chopped, or guacamole
- tomatoes or salsa,chopped
- corn tortilla chips,and/or fresh warmed flour tortillas
Instructions
-
Combine soaked and drained beans, turkey stock, and half the onions in a large soup pot and bring to a boil.
-
Reduce heat and simmer until beans are very soft for 1 to 3 hours or more, depending on the type of white beans you are using.
-
Combine the beans and the turkey stock in a large soup pot and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer.
-
Heat olive oil in a skillet on medium heat, cook chopped jalapeño, and remaining onions in oil until tender. Add the minced garlic and cook a minute more. Add green chilies and seasonings and mix thoroughly.
-
Add the jalapeño onion mixture to the stock and beans. Add the turkey and salt to taste, and simmer for 10 minutes or more until the beans are thoroughly soft and the stew has thickened.
-
Serve topped with grated cheese. Garnish with cilantro, chopped fresh tomato, salsa, chopped green onions, and/or avocados.
-
Serve with fresh warmed flour tortillas or tortilla chips.
Nutrition
- Calories: 542.98kcal
- Fat: 26.16g
- Saturated Fat: 10.22g
- Trans Fat: 0.04g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 11.35g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.75g
- Carbohydrates: 41.63g
- Fiber: 10.91g
- Sugar: 5.88g
- Protein: 37.77g
- Cholesterol: 79.88mg
- Sodium: 880.96mg
- Calcium: 446.12mg
- Potassium: 1459.95mg
- Iron: 6.87mg
- Vitamin A: 112.78µg
- Vitamin C: 54.43mg
Technique Tip for Enhancing White Chili Flavor
When cooking your white beans, it's important to remember that the cooking time can vary greatly depending on the type of bean you're using. Cannellini beans tend to be tender and cook rather quickly, while navy beans take longer. To ensure your beans are cooked to perfection, make sure to check them frequently for tenderness. If they're still too hard after the suggested cooking time, simply continue to simmer them, checking every 10 minutes or so until they reach your desired level of tenderness.
Time-Saving Tips for Making White Chili
Prep ahead: Chop and prepare all the ingredients the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Use canned beans: Opt for canned white beans instead of dry beans to skip the soaking and cooking process.
Pressure cooker: Utilize a pressure cooker to expedite the bean cooking process, reducing the time needed to achieve tenderness.
Multi-task: While the chili simmers, prepare the garnishes and extras to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.
Leftover turkey: Utilize leftover cooked turkey to save time on cooking and preparation.
Substitute Ingredients For Turkey White Chili Recipe
dry white beans - Substitute with cannellini beans: Cannellini beans have a similar creamy texture and mild flavor, making them a great substitute for white beans in this recipe.
turkey stock - Substitute with chicken stock: Chicken stock can be used as a substitute for turkey stock, as it provides a similar savory flavor and richness to the dish.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a convenient alternative with a slightly milder flavor.
onions - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for onions, adding a mild, sweet flavor to the dish.
jalapeno or serrano pepper - Substitute with Anaheim pepper: Anaheim peppers can be used as a substitute for jalapeno or serrano peppers, offering a mild heat level and a slightly sweet flavor.
ground cumin - Substitute with coriander: Coriander can be used as a substitute for cumin, providing a warm, citrusy flavor to the dish.
oregano - Substitute with marjoram: Marjoram can be used as a substitute for oregano, offering a similar earthy and slightly sweet flavor.
ground cloves - Substitute with allspice: Allspice can be used as a substitute for ground cloves, providing a warm and aromatic flavor to the dish.
cayenne pepper - Substitute with paprika: Paprika can be used as a substitute for cayenne pepper, offering a mild heat and a rich, smoky flavor.
green chilies - Substitute with jalapenos: Jalapenos can be used as a substitute for green chilies, providing a similar level of heat and a fresh, bright flavor.
turkey - Substitute with chicken: Chicken can be used as a substitute for turkey, offering a similar lean and tender meat for the recipe.
monterey jack cheese - Substitute with pepper jack cheese: Pepper jack cheese can be used as a substitute for Monterey jack cheese, adding a spicy kick to the dish.
cilantro - Substitute with flat-leaf parsley: Flat-leaf parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro, providing a fresh and slightly peppery flavor to the dish.
avocado - Substitute with guacamole: Guacamole can be used as a substitute for avocado, adding a creamy and flavorful element to the dish.
tomatoes or salsa - Substitute with diced tomatoes with green chilies: Diced tomatoes with green chilies can be used as a substitute for tomatoes or salsa, providing a zesty and flavorful addition to the dish.
corn tortilla chips and/or fresh warmed flour tortillas - Substitute with tortilla strips: Tortilla strips can be used as a substitute for corn tortilla chips and fresh warmed flour tortillas, offering a crunchy and convenient option for serving with the white chili.
Presentation Ideas for White Chili with Turkey
Elevate the plating: When presenting the white chili, focus on creating a visually appealing plate. Use a wide-rimmed bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the dish. The white beans, turkey, and green chilies should be arranged thoughtfully to create an enticing presentation.
Garnish with precision: Add a touch of finesse to the dish by garnishing with finely chopped cilantro, green onions, and ripe avocado slices. The vibrant green hues will provide a striking contrast against the white chili, adding both visual appeal and fresh flavors.
Incorporate texture: Enhance the dining experience by serving the white chili with a side of warm, freshly made flour tortillas. The soft, pillowy texture of the tortillas will complement the hearty chili, offering a delightful contrast in both taste and mouthfeel.
Artful cheese placement: Grate Monterey Jack cheese with precision and sprinkle it delicately over the white chili. The cheese should be evenly distributed, adding a creamy richness to each spoonful of the dish.
Attention to detail: Pay attention to the rim of the serving bowl, ensuring it is clean and free from any spills or smudges. The attention to detail will demonstrate a high level of professionalism and care in the presentation of the dish.
Essential Tools for Making White Chili
Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile, all-purpose knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing.
Stock pot: A large, deep pot used for making stocks, soups, and stews.
Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and sautéing ingredients.
Wooden spoon: A kitchen utensil used for stirring, mixing, and tasting dishes.
Measuring cups and spoons: Used for accurately measuring ingredients for recipes.
Can opener: A tool used for opening canned ingredients.
Immersion blender: A handheld blender used for blending and pureeing ingredients directly in the cooking pot.
Ladle: A long-handled spoon with a deep bowl, used for serving soups and stews.
Tongs: Used for flipping, turning, and serving foods while cooking.
Grater: Used for grating cheese, vegetables, and other ingredients.
Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforations used for draining foods such as pasta or rinsing vegetables.
Oven: Used for baking, roasting, and broiling dishes.
Stove: A cooking appliance used for heating and cooking food in pots and pans.
Mixing bowls: Bowls used for mixing and combining ingredients.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle, used for making sauces, boiling liquids, and cooking small quantities of food.
Baking sheet: A flat, rectangular metal pan used for baking and roasting in the oven.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping and blending ingredients.
Meat thermometer: Used for checking the internal temperature of meats to ensure they are cooked to the desired level.
Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile, all-purpose knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing.
Storing and Freezing White Chili
Allow the white chili to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and potentially spoiling the chili.
For short-term storage, transfer the cooled chili to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will continue to meld and develop over time, making leftovers even more delicious.
If freezing, consider portioning the chili into individual serving sizes for easy reheating later. Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some headspace to allow for expansion during freezing.
Label the containers or bags with the date and contents to keep track of your frozen meals. White chili can be frozen for up to 3 months without significant loss of quality.
When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of turkey stock or water to adjust the consistency if it has thickened during freezing.
Avoid freezing chili with toppings like cheese, avocado, or sour cream, as these ingredients may not hold up well in the freezer. Instead, add fresh toppings when serving the reheated chili for the best texture and flavor.
If you have leftover turkey that you want to use in future batches of chili, you can also freeze the cooked turkey separately. Shred or chop the turkey, then store it in airtight containers or resealable bags for up to 3 months. Thaw and add to the chili during the last few minutes of cooking.
How To Reheat Leftover White Chili
Stovetop method: transfer the leftover white chili to a saucepan and reheat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the chili appears too thick, add a splash of turkey stock or water to thin it out. Heat until the chili is warmed through and bubbling gently.
Microwave method: place the desired amount of leftover white chili in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the chili is heated through. Be careful when removing the cover, as steam may escape.
Slow cooker method: transfer the leftover white chili to a slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cover and let the chili reheat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until it is warmed through. This method is ideal if you have a large quantity of leftover chili and want to keep it warm for an extended period.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover white chili to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and reheat for 15-20 minutes, or until the chili is heated through. Stir the chili halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
Garnish and serve: once the white chili is reheated, ladle it into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as shredded Monterey Jack cheese, chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream. Serve the chili with tortilla chips or warm flour tortillas on the side for a satisfying and comforting meal.
Interesting Fact About White Chili with Turkey
White chili is a popular dish in the Southern United States and is often made with chicken. However, using turkey as a substitute for chicken in this recipe provides a leaner and healthier alternative without compromising on flavor.
Is Making White Chili at Home Cost-Effective?
This white chili recipe with turkey is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as white beans and turkey, are affordable and readily available. The addition of vegetables and spices enhances the flavor without significantly increasing the cost. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20. The versatility of this dish makes it a great option for budget-conscious households. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Is White Chili with Turkey Healthy?
This white chili recipe with turkey is a relatively healthy dish, thanks to several nutritious ingredients:
- White beans are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals
- Turkey is a lean protein source, lower in fat compared to beef or pork
- Vegetables like onions, garlic, and jalapeños provide flavor and beneficial compounds
- Spices such as cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper offer antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties
However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the recipe even healthier:
- The recipe calls for Monterey Jack cheese, which can be high in saturated fat and sodium. Consider using a reduced-fat cheese or limiting the amount used.
- Depending on the turkey stock used, the sodium content might be high. Opt for low-sodium or homemade stock to control salt intake.
To further enhance the nutritional value of this white chili, you could:
- Increase the variety of vegetables by adding diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers to boost the fiber and nutrient content
- Incorporate more leafy greens like spinach or kale for added vitamins and minerals
- Replace some of the cheese with plain Greek yogurt for a creamy texture and a boost of protein
- Serve the chili with a side salad or extra vegetables to create a more balanced meal
- Choose whole-grain tortillas or chips for additional fiber
Editor's Opinion on This White Chili Recipe
As a culinary expert, I find this white chili recipe with turkey to be a delightful and flavorful dish. The combination of tender turkey, creamy white beans, and aromatic spices creates a comforting and satisfying meal. The use of fresh ingredients like jalapeño, garlic, and green chilies adds a vibrant kick to the dish. The garnishes of Monterey Jack cheese, cilantro, and avocado provide a beautiful contrast of textures and flavors. This recipe is a perfect balance of hearty and wholesome, making it a wonderful choice for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends and family.
Enhance Your Turkey White Chili Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Recipes to White Chili with Turkey
Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for White Chili
Why trust this Turkey White Chili Recipe:
This white chili recipe with turkey is a delicious and nutritious option for a hearty meal. The combination of white beans, turkey stock, and a variety of flavorful spices creates a rich and satisfying dish. The use of jalapeno and green chilies adds a delightful kick, while the garnishes of monterey jack cheese, cilantro, and avocado provide a burst of freshness. With a well-balanced blend of ingredients and clear, easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe promises a delightful culinary experience for anyone seeking a wholesome and flavorful meal.
Was this page helpful?
Have your own special recipe to share? Submit Your Recipe Today!
Related Recipes
Turkey Chili & Rice Tacos Recipe
Gluten-Free Crock Pot Turkey Chili Recipe
Ground Turkey Chili Recipe
Slow Cooker White Turkey Chili Recipe
Low Calorie Slow Cooker Chili Recipe
Low Calorie Slow Cooker Turkey Chili Recipe
Leftover Turkey Chili Recipe
Chef John’s Turkey Sloppy Joes Recipe
Laura’s Quick Slow Cooker Turkey Chili Recipe
Rocco DiSpirito’s Turkey Chili Recipe
White Chili with Ground Turkey Recipe
