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Smoky Turkey Chili (with Bacon and Chocolate)

Recipe by Family Tree Foodie

Smoky Turkey Chili with bacon and a hint of dark chocolate is a rich, hearty twist on classic chili. Made with lean ground turkey, warming spices, tender beans, and subtle sweetness from corn, this deeply flavorful chili is perfect for game day, cozy dinners, or make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

Meat & Bacon

  • 3 slices thick-cut bacon, diced
  • 1-1.5 lbs ground turkey (dark meat or 93% lean works best)

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned/drained)

Canned & Pantry

  • 1 (14 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
  • 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
  • 1 cup chicken stock or low-sodium broth
  • 2 (15 oz) can beans of choice (pinto, black, or kidney), drained and rinsed

Spices & Flavor

  • 2 TBSP chili powder
  • 3 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2  tsp brown sugar
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to heat preference)
  • 1.5 tsp kosher salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

The Secret Touch

  • 1–2 squares (about 1 oz) dark chocolate (70% is ideal)
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (brightens flavor at the end)

Instructions

1️⃣ Render Bacon & Brown Turkey

  1. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium heat, cook diced bacon until crispy.
  2. Add ground turkey to pot and cook until just browned, breaking up into bite-sized pieces. 

2️⃣ Sauté Vegetables

  1. Add onions, diced bell pepper and corn to the pot. Cook 5–6 minutes until softened.
  2. Stir in garlic and cook another 30–60 seconds until fragrant.

3️⃣ Season & Simmer

  1. Stir in smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, oregano, brown sugar, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Stir in tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce and cook 1–2 minutes to deepen flavor.
  3. Add fire-roasted tomatoes, chicken stock, and drained beans.
  4. Bring to a gentle simmer, partially covered, for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Taste for seasoning and adjust salt, spice, or sweetness as needed.

4️⃣ Add Chocolate & Brightness

  1. Remove from heat and stir in dark chocolate until melted.
  2. Add 1 tsp apple cider vinegar to balance richness.

5️⃣ Serve

  • Ladle into bowls.
  • Optional garnishes: shredded cheddar, avocado, sour cream, chopped fresh cilantro, or a few crispy tortilla strips.

Notes

 

Find it online: https://familytreefoodie.com/smoky-turkey-chili-with-bacon-and-chocolate/

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