Unbeatable Award-Winning Chili
This unbeatable award-winning chili is a flavor-packed, cook-off champion featuring a blend of ground turkey meats, bold spices, and a secret ingredient that sets it apart. It’s hearty, savory, and perfect for chili lovers looking for depth and warmth in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey thighs or chicken thighs
- 1 lb ground turkey breast or chicken breast
- 2 cans 14 oz each diced tomatoes
- 1 can 14 oz kidney beans
- 1 can 14 oz white beans
- 6 oz tomato paste
- 32 oz chicken broth
- 1 large onion finely minced
- 1 jalapeño pepper chopped
- 1 green bell pepper chopped
- 8 cloves garlic finely minced
- 4 tbsp chili powder
- 1½ tsp cayenne pepper
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tsp brown sugar
- 2 tsp cocoa powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese for serving
- 8 tbsp sour cream for serving
Instructions
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large Dutch oven; sauté onion and bell pepper over medium-high heat for 5 minutes.
- In a separate pan, heat 2 tbsp olive oil; cook ground turkey meats until browned.
- Add cooked meat to the pot with the onion and pepper mixture.
- Dilute tomato paste with 1 cup chicken broth and add to pot.
- Stir in chili powder, cayenne, smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, brown sugar, cocoa powder, remaining chicken broth, and salt.
- Add garlic, jalapeño, tomatoes, and beans; bring to a boil.
- Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally; add broth if too thick.
- Adjust seasoning, serve topped with shredded cheddar and sour cream.
Notes
The cocoa powder adds a rich depth and subtle sweetness that rounds out the chili. Use ground chicken if preferred. For a spicier version, add more jalapeño or cayenne.