Not all chili recipes are built for a keto lifestyle. This smoky, rich, low-carb turkey chili is designed with that in mind. It’s hearty without beans, intensely flavorful, and remarkably simple to prepare in just one pot. Each spoonful delivers satisfying depth thanks to a layered spice blend, while lean ground turkey keeps it high in protein and keto-friendly. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this dish proves that going low-carb doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort food classics.
Why Make Keto Turkey Chili
If you’re watching your carbs but crave that warm, satisfying bowl of chili, this recipe is your answer. No beans, no added sugar, no fillers—just pure, robust flavor from ground turkey, aromatic onions, and carefully balanced spices. This keto chili is also versatile: serve it on its own, top it with shredded cheese and sour cream, or use it to fill low-carb tortillas for a chili wrap.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s break down the essentials for this keto-friendly chili. You won’t need anything complicated, but every ingredient plays a role in delivering bold, satisfying flavor:
- Avocado oil: Neutral, high-smoke-point oil perfect for sautéing.
- Ground turkey (2 pounds): Lean, high-protein base that absorbs spices beautifully.
- Onion (½, chopped): Adds sweetness and depth.
- Crushed tomatoes (28 oz can): Rich, thick texture without added sugar.
- Salt and black pepper: Foundational seasoning.
- Onion powder & garlic powder: Enhances the aromatic base.
- Paprika & smoked paprika: Layers of sweetness and smokiness.
- Cumin powder: Earthy, warm backbone.
- Chili powder & cayenne pepper: Brings heat and classic chili character.
Choosing the Best Ingredients
Ground turkey keeps this recipe lean, but don’t skimp on quality. Look for at least 85% lean to retain moisture and flavor. Avocado oil is ideal for keto cooking because of its healthy fats and neutral taste, but olive oil can substitute in a pinch. For crushed tomatoes, check the label—avoid brands with added sugar to keep carbs low.
Step-by-Step Cooking Method
Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium heat in a large pot or Dutch oven.
- Add the chopped onion with a pinch of salt and garlic powder. Cook until the onions turn translucent, releasing their sweetness and building the base flavor.
Brown the Turkey
- Add the ground turkey to the pot.
- Sprinkle in onion powder, paprika, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir frequently to break up the meat and evenly distribute spices. Cook until the turkey is browned with no pink remaining.
Add Tomatoes and Simmer
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Stir well to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding extra chili powder or cayenne for more heat.
- Reduce heat to low and let the chili simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes. This step concentrates flavors and thickens the sauce without any fillers.
Tips for Perfect Keto Chili
- Toast your spices briefly after adding them to the pot—this unlocks their oils and intensifies their aroma.
- Simmer uncovered to reduce liquid naturally and avoid a watery chili.
- Adjust heat level by modifying cayenne and chili powder quantities.
- Make it richer by adding a tablespoon of butter or cream at the end if you prefer a creamier finish.
Variations and Add-Ins
This recipe is intentionally minimalist to keep it keto and approachable, but it’s highly adaptable:
- Extra Veggies: Add diced bell peppers or zucchini for volume without many carbs.
- Protein Swaps: Try ground beef, chicken, or even bison for different flavor profiles.
- Toppings: Avocado slices, shredded cheddar, sour cream, chopped cilantro, jalapeños—all keto-friendly additions that add freshness and richness.
- Slow Cooker Option: Brown the turkey and onions on the stove, then transfer to a slow cooker with tomatoes and spices. Cook on low for 4–6 hours.
How to Serve Keto Turkey Chili
While traditional chili might be served over rice or with cornbread, here are low-carb ways to enjoy it:
- In a bowl topped with cheese and sour cream for a classic presentation.
- Spooned over cauliflower rice for a filling meal.
- Wrapped in low-carb tortillas for a chili burrito.
- With a side of simple green salad to lighten the meal.
Storing and Reheating
One of the best things about chili is how well it keeps. This recipe is perfect for meal prep:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze in single-serving containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
This is a low-carb, high-protein, keto-friendly meal. Nutritional values vary slightly with brands and toppings, but here’s a typical breakdown per serving (assuming 6 servings):
- Calories: ~300–350
- Protein: ~30–35g
- Net carbs: ~6–8g
- Fat: ~15–20g
Final Thoughts
This keto turkey chili delivers all the savory satisfaction of classic chili without the carbs that can derail your goals. It’s designed to be easy, customizable, and perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. With its rich layers of spice and adaptable ingredients, it can become a staple in any low-carb kitchen.
Take a little time to toast your spices, let it simmer, and make it your own with toppings and variations. That’s how you turn a simple pot of chili into a standout meal that you’ll want to make again and again.
Keto Turkey Chili
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
- 2 pounds ground turkey lean (at least 85%)
- 0.5 medium onion chopped
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes no added sugar
Spices & Seasonings
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper adjust for heat preference
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Cooking Instructions
- Heat avocado oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add chopped onion, season with salt and garlic powder, and sauté until translucent and fragrant.
- Add ground turkey to the pot. Sprinkle in onion powder, paprika, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook while stirring frequently until the turkey is fully browned with no pink remaining.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Adjust seasoning to taste by adding more chili powder or cayenne if desired.
- Reduce heat to low and let the chili simmer uncovered for 20 minutes to thicken and develop flavor.
- Serve hot, optionally topped with keto-friendly garnishes such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado slices.
Notes
- Toast spices briefly after adding to enhance aroma and flavor.
- Simmer uncovered to allow sauce to thicken naturally.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to control heat level.
- Store leftovers in airtight containers refrigerated up to 5 days or freeze up to 3 months.
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