Description
This High Protein Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a nutritious meal. Made with lean ground beef or turkey, a colorful mix of bell peppers, and protein-packed beans, it’s seasoned with a blend of chili powder, cumin, and paprika for a warm, smoky taste. Simmered to perfection, this chili is ideal for gatherings or a comforting weeknight dinner, served with optional toppings like Greek yogurt and shredded cheddar cheese.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound lean ground beef or ground turkey
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Tomato and Broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup beef or chicken broth
Beans
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
Optional Toppings
- Greek yogurt
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and bell peppers and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook Ground Meat: Add the lean ground beef or turkey to the pot. Cook until the meat is browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pot.
- Add Spices: Sprinkle chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper over the cooked meat and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly and cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices, enhancing their flavors.
- Combine Tomato Ingredients: Stir in the tomato paste and diced tomatoes thoroughly. Pour in the beef or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add Beans and Simmer: Add the drained and rinsed kidney beans and black beans to the pot. Stir to combine, then reduce heat to low. Let the chili simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed by adding more salt, chili powder, or a splash of hot sauce to suit your preference.
- Serve: Spoon the hot chili into bowls and top with your favorite optional toppings such as Greek yogurt, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use lean ground turkey as a lower-fat alternative to ground beef.
- For a spicier chili, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- The chili thickens as it simmers; if it becomes too thick, add a little extra broth or water.
- Leftover chili tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to develop.
- Serve with cornbread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
