Cozy Up with Harvest Turkey and Lentil Chili Recipe for Fall

Getufit Fitness & Nutrition
Sep 20
3 min read

As the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and gold, there's nothing better to welcome fall than a hearty bowl of chili. This Harvest Turkey and Lentil Chili is not only warm and comforting but also loaded with nutrition, making it the ideal meal for those cooler evenings. With a combination of ground turkey, lentils, and seasonal vegetables, this recipe promises to be a hit at your dining table.

Why Choose Turkey and Lentils?

Turkey is a great choice for lean protein. It delivers essential nutrients while minimizing saturated fat. For example, just one 3-ounce serving of ground turkey has about 22 grams of protein and only 7 grams of fat. Lentils, rich in fiber and iron, bolster your meal with plant-based protein and essential nutrients. In fact, one cup of cooked lentils contains around 18 grams of protein and 16 grams of fiber, promoting a healthy digestive system. The combination yields a filling dish that keeps you energized throughout the day, while lentils cook quickly, making this chili perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients You'll Need

To prepare this delicious Harvest Turkey and Lentil Chili, gather the following ingredients:

1 lb ground turkey
1 cup dried lentils (green or brown)
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
2 medium carrots, diced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro

Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by prepping all your ingredients. Dice the onion, bell pepper, and carrots, and mince the garlic. Rinse the lentils under cold water to remove any debris.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and carrots. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Turkey

Push the sautéed vegetables to the side of the pot and add the ground turkey. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This process takes about 5-6 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Lentils and Spices

After browning the turkey, stir in the rinsed lentils, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until the spices are well blended with the turkey and veggies.

Step 5: Pour in the Broth and Tomatoes

Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the chicken or vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.

Step 6: Simmer the Chili

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils become tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Once the lentils are cooked, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer a thicker consistency, let it simmer uncovered for an additional 10 minutes. Serve hot with your choice of toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped cilantro.

Serves 4

Close-up view of a steaming bowl of Harvest Turkey and Lentil Chili — A steaming bowl of Harvest Turkey and Lentil Chili garnished with cilantro

Tips for the Perfect Chili

Make it Ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day. Consider making a big batch and storing leftovers in the fridge. You can enjoy delicious meals throughout the week with minimal effort.
Customize Your Veggies: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding vegetables like zucchini, corn, or spinach. For instance, adding one cup of chopped spinach will give you extra vitamins and minerals without impacting the chili's flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Harvest Turkey and Lentil Chili is a delightful dish to warm you up as temperatures drop. Featuring rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, it's more than just a meal; it's an experience that embodies the essence of fall. Whether you're savoring it at home or sharing with friends, this chili is bound to impress. So gather your ingredients, settle in, and enjoy a bowl of this flavorful chili that celebrates the best flavors of the season!