Instant Pot Chili with Ground Turkey

Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Turkey Chili Recipe

When it comes to weeknight dinners, few things hit the spot like a warm bowl of chili. But who wants to spend hours in the kitchen on a busy day? Enter the Instant Pot — your shortcut to a rich, flavorful chili that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

This Instant Pot Turkey Chili is not only speedy but also healthy and hearty. Ground turkey keeps it lean without sacrificing protein, while kidney beans and tomatoes add fiber and nutrients. The blend of classic chili spices gives you a comforting warmth and bold depth.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or craving a quick, wholesome dinner, this recipe fits the bill perfectly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb ground turkey (lean, 93% or higher)

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)

• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted if preferred)

• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste

• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water

• 2 tsp chili powder

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp oregano

• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Olive oil (for sautéing)

• Optional toppings: Greek yogurt or sour cream, shredded cheddar, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, lime wedges

Equipment

• Instant Pot or electric pressure cooker

• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula

• Measuring spoons and cups

• Knife and cutting board

Step-By-Step Instructions

Prepare and Sauté

Turn your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” setting and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Brown the Ground Turkey

Add the ground turkey to the pot, breaking it apart with your spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and no longer pink.

Add Seasonings and Tomato Paste

Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the meat and vegetables. Add the tomato paste and stir until combined.

Add Beans, Tomatoes, and Broth

Pour in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and chicken broth. Give everything a good stir, scraping the bottom to loosen any browned bits (this helps avoid the dreaded “burn” warning on the Instant Pot).

Pressure Cook

Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on high for 10 minutes. Once cooking is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.

Final Stir and Serve

Open the lid, stir your chili, and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, or fresh cilantro.

Tips for the Best Turkey Chili

• Don’t skip the natural pressure release: It helps the chili finish cooking gently and avoids splatters.

• Use lean ground turkey: It keeps the chili healthy and less greasy.

• Customize your beans: Kidney and black beans are classic, but pinto beans or chickpeas also work well.

• For thicker chili: After cooking, use the sauté function to simmer for a few minutes uncovered.

• Make it spicier: Add extra cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños with the vegetables.

• Prep in advance: Chop veggies and measure spices ahead of time for faster cooking.

Nutritional Benefits of Turkey Chili

Turkey chili offers a well-rounded nutritional profile:

• High protein: Ground turkey and beans make it filling and great for muscle repair.

• Rich in fiber: Beans help digestion and keep you full longer.

• Low fat: Lean turkey reduces saturated fat intake compared to beef chili.

• Packed with vitamins and minerals: Tomatoes and peppers provide vitamin C, antioxidants, and potassium.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute and will yield similar results.

What if I don’t have an Instant Pot?

No problem! You can make this chili on the stovetop or in a slow cooker. For stovetop, brown turkey and veggies in a pot, add ingredients, and simmer for 30-40 minutes.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! Store chili in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check canned goods labels to avoid cross-contamination.

Can I make it spicy?

Definitely! Add jalapeños, extra cayenne, or a dash of hot sauce for more heat.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Instant Pot turkey chili with:

• Warm corn tortillas or tortilla chips

• A side of steamed rice or cauliflower rice for low-carb

• Fresh avocado slices or guacamole

• Lime wedges for a citrusy kick

• A sprinkle of shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt

How to Meal Prep and Store

This chili is excellent for meal prepping. Portion into microwave-safe containers and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze single servings for convenient future meals.

Variations to Try

• Southwest Style: Add corn, black beans, and a splash of lime juice at the end.

• Veggie Boost: Add diced zucchini, carrots, or spinach during the sauté step.

• Cheesy Chili: Stir in shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese after cooking.

• White Turkey Chili: Swap beans and tomatoes for white beans and green chilies.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot Ground Turkey Chili is the perfect balance of health and comfort. It’s quick to make, packed with protein, and brimming with classic chili flavors. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a cozy bowl, this recipe won’t disappoint.

Try it tonight and discover how easy healthy comfort food can be!