Instant Pot Turkey Chili

Why Make This Recipe

Instant Pot Turkey Chili is a delicious and nutritious meal that can be made quickly and easily. Many people love chili because it is hearty, filling, and perfect for colder weather. This version, made with ground turkey, is a healthier alternative to traditional chili that often uses beef. The addition of quinoa and sweet potatoes not only boosts the flavor but also packs in essential vitamins and minerals. The Instant Pot makes the cooking process simpler and quicker, allowing for tender meat and melding of flavors in a fraction of the time you would normally spend on the stovetop.

This recipe is great for meal prep for the week, perfect for feeding a crowd, or just to satisfy your chili cravings. In addition, it can easily be adapted to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. With its wholesome ingredients and the ease of preparation, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and time again.

How to Make Instant Pot Turkey Chili

The process of making Instant Pot Turkey Chili is straightforward, making it accessible to cooks of all skill levels. Have everything ready before you start, and follow these steps for a tasty result.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 medium sweet potato, diced
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for sautéing

Directions

1. Prepare the Instant Pot: Start by setting your Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. This allows you to prepare your ingredients easily.

2. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add olive oil to the Instant Pot. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until translucent, which will take about 3-5 minutes.

3. Cook the Ground Turkey: Next, add the ground turkey to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Brown the turkey for about 5-7 minutes until it is no longer pink.

4. Mix in the Vegetables and Grains: Add your diced sweet potato, rinsed quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir everything together well until combined.

5. Add Spices: Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the chili.

6. Seal and Cook: Close the lid of the Instant Pot and make sure the valve is set to ‘Sealing.’ Set the pot to ‘Manual’ and cook for 15 minutes.

7. Release Pressure: Once the cooking time is up, perform a quick release of the pressure by carefully turning the valve to ‘Venting.’ Be cautious as steam will escape.

8. Final Touches: Once the pressure is released, open the lid and give the chili a good stir. Taste your chili and adjust the seasoning with more salt or spices as necessary.

9. Serve Hot: Ladle the chili into bowls. You can enjoy it on its own or with toppings like cheese, sour cream, or avocado.

How to Serve Instant Pot Turkey Chili

Instant Pot Turkey Chili can be served in various ways. Here are some ideas for serving:

• With Toppings: You can top your chili with cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions, or avocado for added flavor and texture.
• With Bread: Serve the chili alongside warm cornbread or crusty bread. This makes for a hearty meal.
• With Rice or Tortilla Chips: Another option is to serve it on a bed of rice, or with crunchy tortilla chips on the side.
• In a Burrito or Taco: You can use the chili as a filling for burritos or tacos. Add your favorite toppings for a delicious meal on the go.

How to Store Instant Pot Turkey Chili

Storing your Instant Pot Turkey Chili is simple. Here are some best practices for keeping it fresh:

• In the Refrigerator: After the chili has cooled down, transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to reheat thoroughly before enjoying it again.

• In the Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the chili. Pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for about 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

• Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, you can reheat the chili on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water if it has thickened too much while stored.

Tips to Make Instant Pot Turkey Chili

To ensure your chili turns out perfectly, here are some helpful tips:

• Use Lean Ground Turkey: For a healthier option, use lean ground turkey. However, you can also use extra-lean ground beef or chicken if preferred.

• Adjust the Spices: If you like your chili spicy, feel free to add more chili powder or even some diced jalapeños. Conversely, if you’re serving children or those who prefer milder flavors, reduce the spices.

• Beans and Quinoa: Make sure to rinse the beans and quinoa thoroughly to remove any excess sodium or residue. This helps enhance the flavors of your chili.

• Customize Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini if you prefer or have them on hand. This allows for more variety and nutrition.

• Let it Rest: If you have the time, letting the chili rest for a while before serving enhances the flavors, as it allows the ingredients to meld together.

Variations

While this recipe is delicious as is, feel free to get creative! Here are some variations you might consider:

• Vegetarian Version: Make it vegetarian by omitting the turkey and using more beans or lentils for protein. You can also substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.

• Different Beans: Instead of black beans, try using kidney beans, chickpeas, or pinto beans. This gives the chili a different flavor and texture.

• Spicy Chili: Add more spices like cayenne pepper or hot sauce to kick up the heat. Add small amounts gradually, adjusting to your taste.

• Sweet Potato Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of sweet potatoes, you could substitute them with regular potatoes or even butternut squash for a different taste.

FAQs

Can I make this chili in advance?

Yes! This chili can be made in advance and is perfect for meal prep. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop further. Store in the fridge or freeze it for later.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free! The ingredients used, such as turkey, beans, quinoa, and vegetables, do not contain gluten. Always double-check your broth and canned goods to ensure they are labeled gluten-free.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! If you’re feeding a crowd or want leftovers, feel free to double the ingredients. Just ensure that your Instant Pot can handle the increased volume. You might need to extend the cooking time slightly as well, but keep an eye on it.

How spicy is this chili?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preferences. This recipe provides a mild heat due to the chili powder. If you love spice, feel free to add more or include jalapeños or cayenne pepper.

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey with ground beef, chicken, or even sausage if desired. Each type of meat will bring about a different flavor profile, so choose what you like best.

What can I serve with this chili?

Instant Pot Turkey Chili can be enjoyed on its own or with sides like cornbread, rice, tortilla chips, or even a salad. Feel free to pair it with various toppings, such as cheese, sour cream, or avocado.

With this simple and delicious recipe, Instant Pot Turkey Chili is sure to become a staple in your home. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!

Print