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Turkey Chili with Orange Juice

This turkey chili combines ground turkey and beans simmered with fragrant spices, then finished with a splash of fresh orange juice for brightness. The dish develops a thick, hearty texture with a vibrant, slightly tangy flavor profile and a rich, comforting appearance. It’s a quick, one-pot meal with a colorful and inviting look.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground turkey preferably lean
  • 1 cup cooked beans black beans or kidney beans work well
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes canned or fresh
  • 1 tablespoon cumin ground
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice preferably freshly squeezed
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. The meat will release its aroma and start to brown nicely.
  2. Add the diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, and cinnamon to the cooked turkey. Stir everything together well, allowing the spices to coat the meat evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly thickened.
  3. Pour in the cooked beans and stir to combine. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld and the chili thickens slightly.
  4. Remove the lid and stir in the fresh orange juice. Increase the heat slightly to allow the chili to bubble gently. Cook uncovered for another 3-5 minutes, until the mixture is heated through and slightly reduced, giving it a vibrant aroma and bright flavor.
  5. Taste the chili and season with salt and pepper as desired. Stir well to distribute the seasonings evenly.
  6. Serve the turkey chili hot, with a hearty, thick appearance and a bright, flavorful finish. Enjoy it topped with your favorite garnishes if desired.

Notes

For added flavor, consider garnishing with chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime before serving.