Leftover Turkey Chili

Name: Leftover Turkey Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded leftover turkey; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained; 1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes; 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color); 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Published: October 27, 2025

by samuel cullingham

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Leftover Turkey Chili is a warm bowl of comfort that envelops you like a cozy blanket on a chilly day. Imagine the rich, hearty aroma wafting through your kitchen, teasing your taste buds with promises of spicy warmth and savory depths that only leftover turkey can provide. The texture is a symphony of tender meat, plump beans, and vibrant veggies dancing together in perfect harmony, making it the ultimate dish to chase away the winter blues.

Now, let’s be real for a second — who doesn’t have an abundance of turkey after the holidays? Leftover Turkey Chili transforms what could be an uneventful fridge affair into an exciting culinary adventure. Picture yourself gathering around with family or friends, spoons clinking against bowls, laughter echoing as everyone digs into this scrumptious masterpiece. It’s more than just food; it’s nostalgia in a bowl, perfect for game nights or lazy Sundays. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more!

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Quick and easy to prepare: This Leftover Turkey Chili is a breeze to whip up, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish.

Flavor-packed goodness: Each bite bursts with bold flavors thanks to spices and fresh ingredients harmonizing perfectly.

Visually stunning: The vibrant colors of peppers, beans, and herbs make this chili not just tasty but also beautiful on your table.

Versatile dish: Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or make it vegetarian-friendly by swapping out turkey for beans.[/love_box]

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Leftover Turkey Chili:

Leftover Turkey: Shredded or diced turkey works best; use whatever you have left from your feast.
Canned Beans: A mix of black beans and kidney beans adds protein and texture; rinse them before adding.
Diced Tomatoes: Opt for fire-roasted diced tomatoes to enhance the smoky flavor profile.
Bell Peppers: Choose colorful bell peppers for sweetness and visual appeal; chop them finely.
Onion: A medium onion adds depth; sauté until translucent to bring out its natural sweetness.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds that aromatic punch; don’t skimp on this!
Chili Powder: This spice is essential; adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance.
Cumin: It brings earthiness to the chili; use ground cumin for a more robust flavor.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while maintaining moisture.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Leftover Turkey Chili:

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Toss in chopped onions and bell peppers. Sauté until they soften, about five minutes. Add minced garlic during the last minute so it doesn’t burn.

Step 2: Mix in the Spices

Sprinkle chili powder and cumin over the sautéed vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly while letting those spices toast for about one minute.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add shredded leftover turkey along with canned beans (drained), diced tomatoes (with juices), and chicken broth into the pot. Stir until combined.

Step 4: Simmer Away

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat. Reduce heat slightly and let it simmer uncovered for about ten minutes so all those flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Taste Test Time

Give your chili a taste test! Adjust seasoning with salt or additional spices if desired. If you want extra kick, toss in some hot sauce at this stage!

Step 6: Serve Up

Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes such as cilantro, sour cream, or cheese. Enjoy warm!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

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Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add in your leftover turkey to brown it slightly. Next, toss in the spices and tomatoes before adding beans and broth for a rich chili experience. Simmer gently to let the flavors meld.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to swap in different beans or add corn for sweetness. Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or cayenne for heat. Top with avocado, cheese, or fresh cilantro to customize your Leftover Turkey Chili to your taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store your Leftover Turkey Chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally for even warmth.

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I remember the first time I made Leftover Turkey Chili; my friends devoured it so quickly that I barely had time to snap a photo! Their compliments made me feel like a culinary superstar that day.

FAQs

What is Leftover Turkey Chili?

Leftover Turkey Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish made from turkey that remains after a big meal, often around the holidays. This chili combines cooked turkey with beans, tomatoes, and spices to create a warming meal that’s perfect for chilly days. It allows you to transform Thanksgiving leftovers into a new, exciting dish that everyone will love. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility; you can adjust the ingredients based on what you have at home, making it a practical solution to reduce food waste.

How do I store Leftover Turkey Chili?

To store Leftover Turkey Chili properly, let it cool down to room temperature before sealing it in an airtight container. You can refrigerate the chili for up to four days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Use freezer-safe containers or bags and label them with the date. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Proper storage ensures that your chili remains safe and delicious for future meals.

Can I customize my Leftover Turkey Chili?

Absolutely! One of the great things about Leftover Turkey Chili is its adaptability. You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or corn to enhance flavor and nutrition. Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste; adding jalapeños or cayenne pepper can give it a spicy kick. You can also swap out beans or use different types of broth for varied flavors. This flexibility allows you to create a unique dish every time you make chili from leftovers.

What toppings are best for Leftover Turkey Chili?

Toppings can elevate your Leftover Turkey Chili experience significantly. Popular choices include shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro. Avocado slices add creaminess, while tortilla chips provide a satisfying crunch. For those who love heat, sliced jalapeños or hot sauce works wonderfully as well. Experimenting with toppings allows you to personalize each bowl of chili and cater to everyone’s preferences at your table.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Leftover Turkey Chili is an excellent way to reinvent your holiday turkey into something delicious and comforting. By utilizing simple ingredients and allowing for customization, this dish not only saves you time but also reduces food waste effectively. Whether enjoyed straight from the pot or topped with your favorite garnishes, this chili is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Embrace this recipe for a delightful meal that showcases creativity while making the most of leftovers!