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Simple Turkey Chili Verde

Hearty Simple Turkey Chili Verde for Busy Weeknights

Enjoy a warm bowl of Simple Turkey Chili Verde, perfect for busy weeknights with a customizable flavor.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Resting Time 20 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Course dinner
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 4 bowls
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • - Large pot

Ingredients
  

Chili Base

  • 2 lbs Turkey Thighs can be swapped for ground turkey for quicker prep
  • 6 pieces Tomatillos can substitute with canned tomatillos if fresh ones are hard to find
  • 2 pieces Poblano Chiles can replace with bell peppers for a milder taste
  • 4 cloves Garlic or garlic powder as a quick substitute
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion can substitute with white onions
  • 1 piece Jalapeño remove seeds for a milder kick

Seasoning

  • 1 cup Cilantro can substitute with parsley
  • 1 2 Lime Juice fresh is best
  • 4 cups Chicken Stock or vegetable stock for a lighter option
  • 2 teaspoons Cumin can substitute with coriander
  • 1 teaspoon Chipotle Powder or paprika for a non-spicy alternative
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper adjust to taste

Final Touches

  • 1 teaspoon Sugar optionally omit if using sweeter tomatillos
  • 1 teaspoon Salt adjust according to preference
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground Cloves can be omitted if unavailable
  • 2 teaspoons Fresh Oregano use dried if fresh is not available
  • 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil or a neutral oil

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Begin by roasting poblano chiles over an open flame or under the broiler until their skins are blackened, about 5-7 minutes. Place them in a plastic bag to steam for easier peeling.
  • While the chiles steam, husk and halve the tomatillos. Broil them alongside crushed garlic until soft, about 5-7 minutes, to enhance their natural sweetness.
  • In a blender, combine the roasted poblanos, broiled tomatillos, garlic, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and sugar. Blend until smooth to create a vibrant verde sauce.
  • Cut the turkey thighs into 1-inch chunks and season with salt and black pepper. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the turkey until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
  • In the same pot, add chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cumin, cooking just until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  • Return the seared turkey to the pot and pour in the verde sauce, chicken stock, chipotle powder, oregano, bay leaves, cloves, and additional salt to taste.
  • Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, uncovered, on low heat for 3-4 hours until the turkey is tender and easily shredded. Adjust seasoning as needed, then remove bay leaves.
  • Ladle the hot chili into bowls, and serve with your choice of toppings, like diced avocado, sour cream, or shredded cheese.

Notes

For an extra burst of flavor, optionally top with fresh cilantro.
Keyword Chili Verde, comfort food, Healthy dinner, One-Pot Meal, Simple Turkey Chili Verde, Turkey Chili