Football season is fast approaching and it’s time to get your (kitchen) game face on and make this yummy treat for your family. Classic Turkey Chili is a favorite all year, but especially during football season. Touchdown!!
This turkey chili recipe is considered classic because it is a true hearty chili con carne with both meat and beans in it. Easy to make for a weeknight meal or game day Sunday, there are a few surprises in the recipe (coffee and brown sugar) which add a delectable sweet and smoky flavor to the chili. Believe me, these ingredients kick the chili up a notch, but if you want it less sweet, just add less brown sugar.
In addition to this Classic Turkey Chili, have other yummy game day favorites available for snacking such as a fresh veggie tray, cheese and crackers, and fresh fruit, and you will have a hearty meal that will take you from coin toss to the last touchdown!
Classic Turkey Chili
- 2 Tbsp. Olive Oil
- 3 Garlic Clove, finely chopped
- 2/3 c. Finely chopped Onion
- 2 Tbsp. Balsamic Vinegar
- 1 lb. Ground Turkey Meat (93% lean)
- 1 Can Petite Cut Tomatoes
- 2 Stalks Fresh Corn (or 3/4 cup frozen corn)
- 1/2 c. Strong Brewed Coffee
- 1/2 c. Brown Sugar
- 2 Tbsp. Chili Powder
- 2 tsp. Cayenne Pepper
- 2 tsp. Cumin
- 1 Can Pinto Beans
- 1 Can Chili Beans
- 1 Can Kidney Beans
Heat the olive oil in a saute pan on medium-low heat. Add the garlic and onion and saute for 3-5 minutes, until the onion is opaque. Add the turkey and cook until brown, using a wooden spoon to break up the turkey. While the turkey is browning, shuck the corn, wash, and with a knife, cut the kernels off the cob.
When the beef is browned, add both cans of tomatoes and the corn. Cook for 10 minutes. Stir in the coffee. Add the brown sugar, and all the spices. Continue to simmer for about 20 minutes. Add the cans of beans and simmer for another 15 minutes. The longer you let it simmer on low, the better the flavors are! Garnish the chili with green onion and cheddar cheese and service with cornbread or corn chips.
(This recipe was updated in 2019 but was originally featured in August 2014.)
Need a few more game day recipe ideas?
- Creamy Macaroni and Cheese
- Bacon Apple Brie Bites
- Jalapeno Spinach Balls
