Panera Turkey Chili Recipe - Hearty and Delicious Homemade Chili

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chili on a cool day, and Panera’s turkey chili has gained a devoted following for its hearty, nutritious ingredients and delicious flavors. Recreating this Panera turkey chili recipe at home is easy, and it brings the same comforting taste you love from the restaurant to your own kitchen. With lean ground turkey, beans, and a variety of colorful vegetables, this chili is packed with protein, fiber, and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Panera Turkey Chili Recipe

This Panera turkey chili recipe has become a favorite among chili lovers, offering a healthier twist on traditional beef chili. Here’s why you’ll love making it at home:

• Healthy and Filling: This recipe uses lean ground turkey and beans, making it high in protein and fiber.
• Loaded with Flavor: The combination of spices, tomatoes, and vegetables creates a rich, savory taste that’s perfect for a cozy meal.
• Easy to Make: This one-pot recipe is simple to prepare and is great for batch cooking and meal prep.

Recipe Overview

Dish Name:

Panera Turkey Chili

Description:

This Panera-inspired turkey chili is a hearty, filling dish made with lean ground turkey, beans, tomatoes, and a variety of vegetables. It’s seasoned with chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika for a robust, savory flavor, perfect for a comforting meal.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Panera turkey chili recipe:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Sour cream, for serving (optional)

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can skip the turkey and add extra beans or a plant-based ground meat substitute. You can also adjust the level of spice by adding jalapeño peppers or hot sauce for a bit more heat.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
2. Add the Ground Turkey: Push the vegetables to one side of the pot, add the ground turkey, and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Beans and Tomatoes: Stir in the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce, mixing everything together.
4. Season the Chili: Add the chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Simmer the Chili: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the chili into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro, and add a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Tips

• For added depth of flavor, sauté the spices with the vegetables before adding the turkey.
• Let the chili simmer longer if you want a thicker consistency.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Serving Suggestions

This recipe serves six people. Turkey chili is delicious on its own but pairs well with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple side salad. You can also top it with shredded cheese, avocado slices, or green onions for added flavor.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of turkey chili contains approximately 300 calories, making it a nutritious, balanced meal that’s high in protein and fiber. Adjust portion sizes based on your dietary needs, and feel free to garnish with your favorite toppings.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat until hot, stirring occasionally. This chili also freezes well; just let it cool, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to three months.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

Yes! Sauté the vegetables and turkey first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

How do I make the chili spicier?

To add more heat, you can include diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to taste.

Conclusion

This Panera turkey chili recipe is a simple, satisfying dish that combines lean protein, beans, and veggies in a savory tomato base. Perfect for any occasion, this chili is an easy weeknight dinner or a delicious meal prep option. Try this recipe out, and let us know how it turns out in the comments! Don’t forget to follow our blog for more cozy and flavorful recipes like this one.