As the holiday season draws to a close, many of us find ourselves with an abundant supply of cooked turkey. While turkey sandwiches are a classic way to enjoy these delicious leftovers, why not transform them into something truly exciting and satisfying? This Leftover Turkey Chili recipe offers a fantastic solution, repurposing your holiday remnants into a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for any chilly evening. It’s a simple yet incredibly rewarding way to breathe new life into your Thanksgiving or Christmas feast, offering a warm embrace that makes every bite feel like a celebration.
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Don’t let that delicious leftover turkey go to waste, and certainly don’t feel obligated to eat turkey sandwiches for days on end! This chili recipe is designed to take your holiday turkey from good to absolutely glorious. If you started with a particularly flavorful turkey, such as one prepared using a Cajun Turkey recipe, you’re already ahead of the game. That inherent flavor will infuse your chili with an unparalleled depth, creating a dish that’s rich, savory, and wonderfully complex.
Beyond its delicious taste, this turkey chili is a testament to resourceful cooking. It’s an economical and environmentally friendly choice, reducing food waste while providing a hearty, nutritious meal for your family. Imagine the rich aroma filling your kitchen as humble leftovers are transformed into a culinary masterpiece that feels both gourmet and homey.
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How to Make Leftover Turkey Chili
Crafting this flavorful leftover turkey chili is a straightforward process, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the use of pre-cooked turkey, which significantly cuts down on overall preparation time. You’ll find detailed measurements and full instructions in the recipe card at the bottom of this post, but let’s walk through the essential steps to create this hearty dish.
Sautéing Aromatics
- Begin by placing a sturdy Dutch oven or a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add a touch of olive oil, allowing it to shimmer before introducing your chopped onions and bell peppers. Sauté these vibrant vegetables for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften, become translucent, and release their enticing aromas. This initial step is crucial for building a foundational layer of flavor for your chili.
- Once the peppers and onions are fragrant, add the minced garlic to the pot. Stir it in for another minute, being careful not to let it brown, as burnt garlic can turn bitter. The garlic will instantly elevate the aromatic profile of your chili.
Building the Base
- Now, it’s time to bring all the components together. Pour in the broth (turkey, chicken, or vegetable broth all work beautifully), add your pre-cooked turkey, drained beans (kidney and black beans are excellent choices), chili seasoning, petite diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Give everything a good stir to ensure all the ingredients are well combined and coated with the spices.
Simmering to Perfection
- Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and allow your chili to gently simmer for 20-25 minutes. This simmering period is essential for the flavors to meld and deepen, transforming individual ingredients into a harmonious and rich stew. The turkey, already cooked, will absorb the chili’s delicious liquid, becoming even more tender and infused with every spice.
Achieving the Perfect Chili Consistency: How to Thicken
One of the keys to a truly satisfying chili is its texture – thick, hearty, and comforting. The best way to ensure your leftover turkey chili reaches this ideal consistency is to be mindful of your liquid measurements from the outset. In this particular recipe, I recommend using just 1 cup of broth. This precise amount, combined with the natural liquids from the diced tomatoes and the body of the tomato sauce, prevents the chili from becoming too watery. As the chili simmers on the stove, these ingredients naturally break down and release their starches, contributing to a rich, thick texture. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors concentrate and the chili thickens to a luscious, spoon-coating consistency. If, by chance, your chili seems too thin for your liking after simmering, you can always uncover it and let it cook for a few more minutes, allowing some of the excess liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, for an even quicker fix, you can mash a small portion of the beans against the side of the pot to release their starches, or stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with an equal amount of cold water for a smooth, lump-free thickening agent.
Choosing Your Beans: A Guide to Legumes in Chili
Beans are a cornerstone of any great chili, offering a wonderful source of plant-based protein, fiber, and a delightful texture that complements the tender turkey. The good news is, you have immense flexibility when it comes to selecting the type of beans for your leftover turkey chili. Almost any variety will pair beautifully with the robust flavors of the dish. My personal favorites for this recipe are a combination of red kidney beans and black beans. Kidney beans provide a classic chili aesthetic and a creamy, substantial bite, while black beans add a slightly different earthy note and a softer texture. However, don’t feel limited to these choices! Pinto beans offer a milder, creamy flavor, cannellini beans are tender and buttery, and even specialty chili beans (often seasoned) can be a great addition. You can also experiment with other legumes like chickpeas or great northern beans if you’re feeling adventurous. Just remember one crucial step: if you’re using canned beans, always be sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly before adding them to your chili. This removes excess sodium and any starchy liquid, ensuring a cleaner, fresher taste.
Mastering the Spice Level: From Mild to Fiery
Chili is a dish that truly shines when its spice level is tailored to individual preferences. Whether you love a fiery kick or prefer a gentle warmth, adjusting the heat in your leftover turkey chili is incredibly simple. As a devoted fan of spicy chili, I often incorporate a full tablespoon of red cayenne pepper into my recipe. This amount delivers a noticeable, invigorating heat that warms you from the inside out. If you’re new to spicy foods or prefer just a hint of warmth, I recommend starting with a conservative teaspoon of cayenne pepper. You can always taste the chili as it simmers and gradually add more cayenne in small increments until you reach your desired level of spice. For those who prefer no heat at all, simply omit the cayenne pepper entirely. It’s also worth noting that chili powder itself can vary in heat, even if it’s generally considered mild. If you are particularly sensitive to spice, it’s a good idea to test your chili powder first or opt for a brand explicitly labeled as “mild.” Remember, it’s much easier to add more heat than to take it away, so always start small and build up.
Slow Cooker vs. Stovetop: Is a Slow Cooker Necessary?
A common question when making chili, especially with pre-cooked meat, is whether a slow cooker is essential. For this Leftover Turkey Chili, the answer is no, it’s not strictly necessary. Since your turkey is already fully cooked from its holiday debut, the primary goal of cooking the chili is to allow the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soften, rather than to cook the meat through. This means you can achieve a delicious and perfectly cooked chili quickly on the stovetop in a large pot or Dutch oven, as detailed in the instructions. The simmer time on the stovetop is more than sufficient for all the ingredients to come together beautifully. However, if you enjoy the convenience of a slow cooker or prefer the deep, slow-developed flavors that come from extended cooking, you certainly can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Simply sauté your aromatics (onions, peppers, garlic) on the stovetop first to lock in those initial flavors, then transfer all ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. While it’s not a requirement, a slow cooker can be a great option for hands-off cooking, allowing the chili to simmer gently throughout the day.
What to Serve with Your Hearty Turkey Chili: Side Dish Pairings
A bowl of warm, robust leftover turkey chili is a satisfying meal in itself, but it truly becomes an experience when paired with the right accompaniments. These side dishes not only complement the rich flavors of the chili but also add textural variety and complete the meal beautifully.
Cornbread Variations
Cornbread is the quintessential partner for chili, offering a slightly sweet and crumbly contrast to the savory, hearty stew. You have several delicious options:
- Keto Low Carb Cornbread: For those mindful of carb intake, a keto-friendly cornbread provides all the flavor without the guilt.
- Air Fryer Cornbread: Quick and convenient, the air fryer can yield perfectly crispy-edged cornbread.
- Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread: Add an extra layer of flavor and a gentle kick with spicy jalapenos and sharp cheddar cheese baked right in.
- Southern Classic Homemade Cornbread: For a truly authentic experience, a traditional Southern cornbread, often baked in a cast iron skillet, is unbeatable.
Other Complementary Sides
- Southern Cornbread Dressing: While typically a holiday dish, its savory, herb-infused flavor can make an unexpectedly delightful side, especially if you have leftovers of that too!
- Crusty Bread or Tortilla Chips: A simple slice of crusty bread or a handful of tortilla chips are perfect for scooping up every last drop of that delicious chili.
- Simple Green Salad: A light, refreshing green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a welcome contrast to the richness of the chili.
Delicious Topping Ideas for Your Chili Bowl: Customization Galore
One of the most enjoyable aspects of serving chili is setting up a “chili bar” with a variety of toppings, allowing everyone to customize their bowl to their heart’s content. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also add delightful textures and visual appeal.
- Shredded Cheese: A classic for a reason! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend melts beautifully into the warm chili, adding creamy, savory goodness.
- Plain Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream: A dollop of cool, tangy Greek yogurt or sour cream provides a creamy counterpoint to the chili’s heat and richness.
- Fresh Jalapenos: Thinly sliced fresh jalapenos (or pickled for a milder tang) offer a crisp texture and a burst of fresh, spicy flavor.
- Cooked and Crumbled Bacon: Crispy bacon bits add an irresistible smoky, salty crunch that elevates any chili.
- Sliced Avocado: Creamy, ripe avocado slices or diced avocado provide a smooth texture and a healthy dose of good fats, balancing the chili’s spice.
- Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh, chopped cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous note that cuts through the richness.
- Chopped Green Onions/Scallions: For a mild oniony bite and a pop of color.
- Crushed Tortilla Chips or Fritos: For an extra crunchy texture and salty flavor.
Storage and Meal Prep: How Long Does Leftover Turkey Chili Last?
Proper storage is crucial for enjoying your delicious leftover turkey chili safely and maximizing its lifespan. Since this recipe uses pre-cooked turkey, it’s important to consider the initial freshness of your holiday turkey. Generally, cooked turkey is safe to consume for up to 3-4 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. While reheating and cooking the turkey again in the chili might theoretically extend its shelf life slightly, it’s safest to adhere to the 4-day guideline from the initial cooking of the turkey. Therefore, if you prepare this chili within a day or two of your holiday meal, you can enjoy it for several days. If you don’t anticipate finishing the chili within this timeframe, freezing it is an excellent and highly recommended option.
Refrigeration Tips
To store leftover turkey chili in the refrigerator, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. This prevents condensation and helps maintain the chili’s quality. Store it in the coldest part of your fridge and consume within 3-4 days for optimal taste and safety.
Freezer Friendly: Extend Your Chili’s Lifespan
Turkey chili freezes exceptionally well, making it a fantastic meal prep option. Freezing allows you to enjoy portions of this hearty dish for months to come. I highly recommend using dedicated freezer soup molds from Amazon, which are perfect for portioning and easy storage. These molds allow you to freeze individual servings, making reheating a breeze. Simply pop out a frozen block of chili, and you’re ready to go. When properly stored in airtight containers or freezer bags, this chili will remain fresh in the freezer for up to several months, typically 2-3 months for best quality, though it will remain safe beyond that. To reheat, simply defrost the chili overnight in the refrigerator, then warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Freezing ensures that no single bite of your precious holiday turkey goes to waste!
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More Inspiring Recipes: Chili Creations
If you’ve fallen in love with the comforting warmth of chili, explore these other fantastic recipes:
- Instant Pot White Chicken Chili
- Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili
- Keto Low Carb Chili
- Instant Pot Beef Chili
- Pumpkin Chicken Chili
- Sweet Potato Chili
- Creamy Seafood Chili
- Buffalo Chicken Chili
- Chili Cheese Fries
- Slow Cooker Crockpot Chili Mac
- Butternut Squash Chili
More Inspiring Recipes: Creative Leftover Meal Ideas
Maximize your ingredients and minimize food waste with these ingenious recipes designed for delicious leftovers:
- Leftover Turkey Nachos
- Leftover Turkey and Rice Soup
- Turkey Bone Broth
- Leftover Ham and Cheese Panini
- Grand Marnier Cranberry Sauce
- Turkey and Cheese Sliders
More Inspiring Recipes: Delightful Turkey Dishes
If you’re a fan of turkey, whether for the holidays or year-round, these recipes offer a variety of ways to enjoy this versatile protein:
- Smothered Turkey Wings
- Baked Turkey Wings
- Air Fryer Turkey Legs
- Air Fryer Turkey Wings
- Air Fryer Turkey Breast
- Slow Cooker Crockpot Turkey Breast
- Cajun Spiced Roasted Turkey
- Leftover Turkey Nachos
- Leftover Turkey Wild Rice Soup
- Turkey Bone Broth Recipe
- Instant Pot Turkey Breast
- Stuffed Turkey Legs
- Slow Cooker Turkey Legs
- Traeger Smoked Turkey
You can also explore The Best Healthy Chili Recipes, learn to make Homemade Chili Seasoning, prepare Slow Cooker Crockpot Chicken and Rice, or master How to Make a Charcuterie Cheese Board.
Leftover Turkey Chili
By Brandi Crawford
This Leftover Turkey Chili recipe is perfect for when the holiday feasts come to an end and we find ourselves with an abundance of leftover turkey. Transform those holiday remnants into something exciting and delicious. Whether you’re looking to repurpose your Thanksgiving or Christmas meal, or you simply want to enjoy a warm and satisfying meal on a chilly evening, this is a comforting dish that brings new life to your leftovers.
Rated 5 out of 5 stars based on 6 votes.
Pin Recipe
Equipment
- Cast Iron Dutch Oven
- Freezer Soup Molds
- Soup Bowls
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 cup chopped onion
- ½ cup chopped red pepper
- ½ cup chopped green pepper
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 cup broth (Turkey, chicken, or vegetable)
- 4 cups cooked turkey meat
- 1 (16 oz) can kidney beans (drained)
- 1 (16 oz) can black beans (drained)
- 1 (16 oz) can petite diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
Spices
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano (dried or ground)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon red cayenne pepper (optional, use 1 tablespoon for spicy)
Instructions
- Place a Dutch oven or soup pot on medium-high heat. Add the olive oil, onions, and peppers. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Add in the garlic and stir for about 1 minute.
- Add in all of the remaining ingredients (broth, cooked turkey, beans, chili seasoning, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce) and stir thoroughly to combine. Lower the heat to medium-low and cover.
- Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chili is warm, the vegetables are tender, and the flavors have fully melded.
Notes
Instead of making your own chili seasoning from individual spices, you can use a pre-made chili packet if you wish. When using a packet, I would recommend starting with ½ of the pack and adjusting to your taste preferences as necessary.
Nutrition
Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 292 kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 3g
Nutrition Data Disclaimer
Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is typically calculated using third-party tools like MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information for a given recipe, you should calculate it with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.
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