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Turkey Chili with Smoked Paprika and Cinnamon

This turkey chili combines lean ground turkey with aromatic spices like smoked paprika and cinnamon, simmered to develop a hearty yet vibrant flavor. The dish results in a thick, tender chili with a rich, flavorful sauce and chunks of cooked turkey throughout.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering.
  2. Add the chopped onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
    1 tablespoon olive oil
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it releases a fragrant aroma.
    1 tablespoon olive oil
  4. Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with your spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
    1 tablespoon olive oil
  5. Sprinkle the smoked paprika and cinnamon over the cooked turkey, stirring well to evenly coat the meat with the spices. Allow the spices to toast slightly for 1 minute, releasing their aroma.
    1 tablespoon olive oil
  6. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the broth, stirring to combine everything smoothly.
    1 tablespoon olive oil
  7. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover partially and let it cook gently, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens and flavors meld, about 20 minutes.
  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring to incorporate the seasonings evenly.
    1 tablespoon olive oil
  9. Uncover the skillet and give the chili a final stir. The sauce should be rich and slightly thickened, with the turkey chunks tender and flavorful.
  10. Serve hot in bowls, garnished with your favorite toppings if desired. Enjoy the hearty, spice-infused chili with family or friends!