Just when you thought your recipe box was full, here comes one more chili you need to try.

This Game Day Turkey Chili has been my go-to for years, and it never misses. It’s packed with lean turkey, hearty beans, and plenty of veggies, but what really sets it apart is the flavor – thanks to a little tomato paste and an unexpected dash of cocoa powder that adds a rich, complex depth. It’s wholesome, satisfying, and exactly the kind of meal you’ll want simmering on the stove when the weather cools down.

While it’s perfect for game day (even if you have no idea who’s playing), this chili is a winter staple in my kitchen. It’s the kind of dish that fills your home with cozy, savory smells and brings everyone to the table – whether you’re cheering for your team or just here for the snacks.

😍 Why You’ll Love My Game Day Turkey Chili

This isn’t just another chili recipe – it’s the one you’ll find yourself coming back to, game day or not. It’s hearty, wholesome, and packed with flavor that hits all the right notes. The secret? A touch of cocoa powder and tomato paste for that rich, deep taste that feels like it’s been simmering for hours (even if it hasn’t).

It’s a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re hosting a big game-day bash or just want something cozy simmering on the stove for a quiet night in. Loaded with lean turkey, beans, and plenty of veggies, it’s as nourishing as it is satisfying. Plus, it’s practically foolproof and flexible – use what you’ve got on hand and make it your own.

Top it off with your favorite fixings: crushed tortilla chips, creamy avocado, melty cheese, or a dollop of sour cream, and you’ve got a bowl of comfort that everyone will dive into, even if they’re not paying attention to the score.

🗒️ Ingredients

Ground turkey – Lean, flavorful, and hearty enough to keep even the biggest appetites satisfied.

Beans – The dynamic duo that brings fiber, protein, and that classic chili heartiness.

Green pepper – Fresh and crisp, adding a pop of color and subtle sweetness.

Jalapeño peppers – Just the right kick to keep things interesting (adjust if you’re feeling bold—or not).

Celery stalks – Adds a little crunch and a lot of depth, because celery’s more than just a garnish.

Large onion – The unsung hero that brings everything together with savory, aromatic goodness.

Garlic cloves – Because no chili is complete without that punchy, garlicky magic.

Chili powder – The bold, smoky backbone of your chili, bringing warmth to every bite.

Ground cumin – Earthy and rich, cumin gives your chili that signature depth of flavor.

Unsweetened cocoa powder – The secret ingredient that adds a rich, velvety depth—trust me on this one.

Ground cloves – A tiny pinch for a warm, unexpected hint of spice (totally optional, but fun).

Diced tomatoes and their juices – Juicy, tangy, and the perfect base to bring everything together.

Tomato paste – Adds that concentrated, tomatoey goodness that takes the flavor up a notch.

Extra virgin olive oil – The trusty sidekick that keeps everything sizzling and flavorful.

👩‍🍳 How to Make My Game Day Turkey Chili

🔥 In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey with a generous pinch of salt. Cook, breaking it up as you go, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Remove from the pot and set aside.

🍅 If the pot looks dry, add a little more oil. Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for about 30 seconds to deepen the flavor.

🧅 Add the onion, celery, green pepper, jalapeños, and garlic. Sauté until the veggies are soft and translucent, about 6 minutes.

🧂Stir in the chili powder, cumin, cocoa powder, cloves (if using), another pinch of salt, and a few cracks of black pepper. Let everything cook for about a minute until fragrant.

🥄 Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and give everything a good stir. Let it cook for another minute to bring the flavors together.

🥫Add the turkey back into the pot along with the beans and 3-4 cups of water. Stir, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

⏲️Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for about an hour, letting all the flavors meld.

🥄 Before serving, give it one last taste to check the seasoning.

🥣 Ladle into bowls and pile on your favorite toppings—sliced green onions, shredded cheese, sour cream, crushed tortilla chips, avocado, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime.

🥳 Grab a spoon and enjoy!

🎩 Tips and Tricks

• Adjust the heat by adding more or less jalapeños, or toss in a pinch of cayenne if you like it fiery.
• Got extra time? Let the chili simmer even longer (up to 2 hours) for an even richer taste.
• This chili is even better the next day, so go ahead and make it ahead of time – it reheats beautifully.

🌟 Variations

Smoky Chipotle Chili: Add a couple of chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy twist. It gives the chili a deep, smoky heat that’s hard to resist.

Sweet Potato & Turkey Chili: Toss in diced sweet potatoes for a touch of natural sweetness and extra heartiness. They pair perfectly with the spices and add a pop of color.

White Turkey Chili: Skip the tomatoes and use white beans, green chilies, and a splash of chicken broth for a creamy, comforting white chili version.

🤲 Substitutions

• Use ground beef, chicken, or a plant-based alternative if that’s more your style.
• Any beans will work – black, pinto, kidney, or even chickpeas if that’s what you’ve got.
• No tomato paste? No problem. While it adds depth, you can skip it or use a little ketchup or extra diced tomatoes in a pinch.
• Dial up the heat with more jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne, or keep it mild by omitting the spicy peppers altogether.
• Out of cocoa powder? Leave it out, or try a tiny splash of brewed coffee for a similar richness.
• Crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, or even fresh chopped tomatoes will do the trick.
• Use avocado oil, canola, or whatever neutral oil you have on hand.
• Substitute fresh garlic for garlic powder (about 1 teaspoon) to keep that flavor in play.
• No cumin? Try ground coriander or chili powder for a different but still delicious flavor profile.
• Swap the water for chicken or vegetable broth for an even richer, heartier flavor.

📓 Best served with

• Crushed tortilla chips
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream
• Sliced green onions
• Fresh cilantro
• Avocado slices
• Lime wedges
• Jalapeño slices
• Cornbread
• Warm, crusty bread
• Rice or quinoa

👝 How to Store Leftover Turkey Chili

Let the chili cool completely before storing. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making it even better the next day.

For longer storage, freeze the chili in individual portions or larger containers, depending on your needs. It’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge or reheat straight from frozen on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

🧠 Common Questions