There’s nothing better than a big, hearty bowl of chili—especially when it’s packed with flavor, protein, and a little bit of sweetness. That’s exactly what this Sweet Potato Turkey Chili brings to the table. It’s cozy, filling, and surprisingly easy to throw together. Plus, it’s got that perfect balance of smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavors that make each bite ridiculously good. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or just need a quick, wholesome dinner, this chili’s got your back. And the best part? It’s budget-friendly and made with simple, wholesome ingredients.
Try my Ground Turkey Tacos recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Easy & Quick – Ready in just 40 minutes, so you’re not stuck in the kitchen all night.
✅ Packed with Flavor – A perfect mix of smoky, savory, and slightly sweet goodness in every bite.
✅ Healthy & Hearty – High in protein, full of fiber, and naturally gluten-free. It’s comfort food without the guilt!
✅ Meal Prep Gold – Makes a solid batch, and it tastes even better the next day. Perfect for lunches on repeat.
✅ Budget-Friendly – Simple, affordable ingredients that won’t break the bank.
✅ Super Customizable – Want it spicier? Add some chili flakes. Prefer a thicker chili? Use less stock. This recipe works with you!
✅ One-Pot Wonder – Less mess, fewer dishes, and easy cleanup. A win-win all around!
Try my Turkey and Green Onion Breakfast Patties recipe.
What Makes This Chili So Good? Let’s Talk Ingredients!
Every great chili starts with awesome ingredients, and this one’s no different. Here’s why these key players make this recipe a total winner:
🥔 Sweet Potatoes – They add a natural sweetness that balances the smoky and savory flavors. Plus, they’re packed with fiber and vitamins, making this chili extra nourishing!
🦃 Lean Ground Turkey – A high-protein, low-fat alternative to beef that still brings all the hearty goodness. It soaks up all those delicious spices like a champ!
🌮 Taco Seasoning – The secret weapon! A blend of spices that gives this chili its bold, slightly smoky, and just-the-right-amount-of-kick flavor.
🧄 Garlic & Onion – The dynamic duo of flavor. They add depth, aroma, and a little bit of that “wow” factor to every bite.
🫘 Black Beans – Creamy, satisfying, and full of fiber and protein to keep you feeling full and happy.
🍗 Chicken Stock – Helps create a rich, flavorful base while keeping everything nice and cozy. You can add more or less depending on how thick you like your chili!
A handful of simple, wholesome ingredients, but together? They make one heck of a bowl of chili! 😋
NOTE: For measurements and rest of the ingredients check the recipe card below.
What You’ll Need To Do
Time required: 40 mins
1️⃣ Sizzle & Brown: Heat up a big ol’ pot over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the sliced onion, ground turkey, and a tablespoon of taco seasoning. Stir things around, adding a little water here and there to keep the turkey juicy. Cook until the turkey’s nicely browned and the onions are soft. Scoop everything out and set it aside.
2️⃣ Spice Up Those Sweet Potatoes: In the same pot (no need for extra dishes—yay!), throw in the sweet potatoes and the rest of the taco seasoning. Give ‘em a good stir so they soak up all that flavor.
3️⃣ Simmer & Soften: Once the sweet potatoes get a little color, add the minced garlic, 16 oz of water, and the chicken stock. Bring it all to a boil, then let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the sweet potatoes are super soft and mashable.
4️⃣ Blend & Bring It Together: Grab an immersion blender and blend the mixture to your preferred consistency. Want it silky smooth? Blend away! Like a few sweet potato chunks? No problem, keep it rustic. Now, toss the turkey and onions back in, add the black beans, and stir it all together. Let it simmer for a few more minutes—taste and tweak the seasoning if needed.
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy: Scoop into bowls, top with a tablespoon of Greek yogurt, and dig in! This chili is hearty, packed with flavor, and just the right amount of cozy.
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Recipe Swaps & Tweaks – Make It Your Own!
One of the best things about this Sweet Potato Turkey Chili is how easy it is to tweak based on what you have or what you love. Here are some fun swaps and adjustments:
🔄 Swap It Up!
- No turkey? No problem! Try ground chicken, beef, or even plant-based crumbles for a different take.
- Ditch the black beans? Use kidney beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas—all work great!
- No sweet potatoes on hand? Try butternut squash or pumpkin for a similar sweetness and texture.
- Need a vegetarian version? Skip the meat and add extra beans, lentils, or quinoa for a hearty plant-based chili.
🎛 Tweak It to Your Taste!
- Want it spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce.
- Prefer it thicker? Reduce the liquid a bit or let it simmer longer to thicken up.
- Craving extra smokiness? A little smoked paprika or chipotle powder can take it to the next level.
- More toppings, more fun! Try avocado, shredded cheese, crushed tortilla chips, or even a fried egg on top!
This recipe is super forgiving, so mix it up and make it exactly how you like it! 😋
Try my Tasty Turkey and Sun-Dried Tomato Pinwheels recipe.
Pro Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Turkey Chili
✅ Brown the Turkey First – Get that turkey nicely browned before setting it aside. It adds extra flavor and keeps the meat juicy!
✅ Cut Sweet Potatoes Small – The smaller you chop them, the faster they cook! Aim for bite-sized pieces to speed things up.
✅ Adjust the Liquid – If you like a thicker chili, start with less stock and add more as needed. For a thinner, soupier consistency, add extra stock or water.
✅ Let It Simmer – Even though this chili is quick, letting it simmer for a few extra minutes helps blend the flavors beautifully.
✅ Taste & Adjust – Chili is all about seasoning! Before serving, give it a taste and tweak with extra salt, taco seasoning, or a squeeze of lime for freshness.
✅ Make It Ahead – This chili gets even better after a day in the fridge! Perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
✅ Freezer-Friendly – Got extra? Freeze it in portions for a quick, no-fuss meal later. Just thaw and reheat!
A little patience and a few small tweaks can take this chili from good to absolutely next level! 😋🔥
Try my Turkey Meatballs with Cilantro Dip recipe.
Diet-Friendly Variations
With a few simple tweaks, you can make Keto, Low-Carb, and Paleo versions of this Sweet Potato Turkey Chili while keeping all the delicious flavors. Here’s how:
Keto Version (Very Low Carb & High Fat)
❌ Swap out the sweet potatoes – They’re too high in carbs. Instead, use cauliflower florets, diced zucchini, or bell peppers for a hearty texture.
❌ Ditch the black beans – Beans are higher in carbs, so replace them with extra ground turkey, mushrooms, or even chopped spinach for added bulk.
✅ Increase the fat – Use a little more olive oil and add some avocado or shredded cheese as a topping for that extra keto-friendly goodness.
Low-Carb Version (Moderate Carbs, Lower Than the Original)
✔️ Reduce the sweet potatoes – Instead of 24 oz, use about 8-10 oz and add more turkey or low-carb veggies to balance it out.
✔️ Limit the black beans – Use half a can or swap with mushrooms or diced zucchini for fewer carbs.
✔️ Thicken with alternative methods – Instead of blending sweet potatoes for thickness, try a little cream cheese or coconut cream for a rich texture.
Paleo Version (Whole Foods, No Dairy, No Legumes, No Processed Ingredients)
❌ Remove the black beans – Since beans aren’t Paleo-friendly, swap them with extra veggies like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms.
❌ Skip the Greek yogurt topping – Instead, use mashed avocado, coconut yogurt, or a drizzle of olive oil for creaminess.
✔️ Use a homemade taco seasoning – Many store-bought ones have additives. Just mix chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt for a Paleo-friendly spice blend.
✔️ Stick to natural ingredients – Use bone broth instead of regular chicken stock for extra nutrients and depth of flavor.
With these tweaks, you can enjoy a delicious Keto, Low-Carb, or Paleo version of this chili while keeping it hearty, flavorful, and satisfying! 🔥🍲😋
Tasty Ways to Serve Your Sweet Potato Turkey Chili
🍞 With Crusty Bread – A warm slice of sourdough, cornbread, or a toasted baguette is perfect for scooping up every last bite.
🍚 Over Rice or Cauliflower Rice – Serve it over white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a more filling meal.
🥑 Topped with Avocado – A few slices of creamy avocado or a scoop of guacamole take it to the next level.
🧀 Cheesy Goodness – Sprinkle cheddar, Monterey Jack, or cotija cheese on top for extra flavor.
🌮 As a Chili Taco Filling – Spoon it into lettuce wraps, low-carb tortillas, or hard taco shells for a fun twist.
🥗 With a Side Salad – A crisp side salad with a zesty lime dressing makes a refreshing contrast.
🥔 Stuffed in a Baked Potato – Hollow out a baked potato (or sweet potato) and load it up with chili and toppings.
🍳 With a Fried Egg on Top – A runny yolk over chili? Game changer! Perfect for a next-day breakfast.
🌮 Dipped with Tortilla Chips – Treat it like a chunky dip and scoop it up with crispy tortilla chips.
No matter how you serve it, this chili is pure comfort in a bowl! 😋🔥
Try my Ground Turkey and White Bean Soup recipe.
Drink Pairings for Sweet Potato Turkey Chili
🍷 Wine Pairings
- Zinfandel – A bold, fruity red that complements the smoky spices of the chili.
- Malbec – Rich, smooth, and full-bodied—perfect for balancing the chili’s slight sweetness.
- Syrah/Shiraz – A deep, peppery red that enhances the chili’s smoky and savory flavors.
- Chilled Rosé – If you want something lighter, a dry rosé can cut through the richness without overpowering.
🍺 Beer Pairings
- Amber Ale – Slightly malty and smooth, it pairs well with the sweet and smoky elements of the chili.
- Mexican Lager (like Modelo or Pacifico) – Crisp and refreshing, it balances the spices.
- Smoky Porter – If you want to lean into the smoky flavors, this is a great pick.
🍹 Non-Alcoholic Options
- Lime Sparkling Water – A crisp, bubbly drink that refreshes the palate between bites.
- Homemade Lemonade – The slight sweetness and citrusy kick pair well with the chili’s heat.
- Hibiscus Iced Tea – Tart and floral, it’s a great contrast to the rich, spicy flavors.
- Virgin Michelada – Tomato juice, lime, Worcestershire, and spices over ice—like a beer-based cocktail without the beer!
- Apple Cider (Hot or Cold) – A cozy, slightly sweet option that plays well with the chili’s flavors.
No matter what you’re sipping on, this chili is gonna hit the spot! 🔥🍲🍷
Try my Turkey and Broccoli Stir Fry recipe.
How to Store & Reheat Your Sweet Potato Turkey Chili
🧊 Refrigerator (Short-Term Storage)
- Let the chili cool completely before storing.
- Transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
- Reheat in a pot over medium heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
❄️ Freezer (Long-Term Storage)
- Portion the chili into individual airtight containers or freezer bags for easy meal prep.
- Lay freezer bags flat for space-saving storage.
- Label with the date—it stays fresh for up to 3 months!
- To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm it on the stove or microwave.
🔥 Bonus Tips
- If the chili thickens too much after storing, add a splash of chicken stock or water when reheating.
- Avoid freezing with Greek yogurt—add it fresh when serving.
- Freeze in silicone muffin trays for single-serve portions—perfect for quick meals!
Meal-prep friendly and freezer-ready—this chili is the gift that keeps on giving! 🍲❄️🔥
Final Thoughts
And just like that, dinner (or meal prep for the week) is done! This Sweet Potato Turkey Chili is proof that healthy food doesn’t have to be boring—it’s hearty, packed with flavor, and just the right amount of comfort in a bowl. Plus, it tastes even better the next day, so don’t be afraid to make extra. Give it a go, top it with a dollop of Greek yogurt, and let me know how it turns out. Trust me, you’re gonna love it!
Recipe Card
Sweet Potato Turkey Chili
Chili, but make it healthy! This easy Sweet Potato Turkey Chili is packed with lean protein, fiber, and big bold flavors 🌶️. Perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep—plus, it tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients
Instructions
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1️⃣ Cook the Turkey and Onions
In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion, ground turkey, and 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning. Cook, stirring occasionally, and add small amounts of water as needed to prevent the turkey from drying out. Continue cooking until the turkey is browned and the onions are soft. Remove from the pot and set aside.
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2️⃣ Sauté the Sweet Potatoes
Using the same pot, add the chopped sweet potatoes along with the remaining 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning. Stir well to evenly coat the sweet potatoes with the seasoning.
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3️⃣ Simmer Until Soft
Once the sweet potatoes begin to brown, add the minced garlic, 16 ounces (480 ml) of water, and the chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for approximately 10 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and easily mashable.
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4️⃣ Blend and Combine
Using an immersion blender, puree the mixture until it reaches the desired consistency. If preferred, leave some chunks of sweet potato for added texture. Return the cooked turkey and onions to the pot, then add the drained and rinsed black beans. Stir well to combine, and let the chili simmer for a few more minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste.
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5️⃣ Serve and Garnish
Portion the chili into serving bowls and top each with 1 tablespoon of Greek yogurt. Serve warm and enjoy.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 5
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 443kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 15g24%
- Total Carbohydrate 44g15%
- Protein 33g66%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
