Instant Pot Turkey Chili

why make this recipe

Turkey chili is a favorite for many families. It’s warm, filling, and can easily be made in one pot, which means fewer dishes to wash afterward. Making turkey chili in an Instant Pot is not only quick but also locks in all the flavors, making each bite delicious. The combination of healthy ingredients like ground turkey, sweet potatoes, quinoa, and black beans makes this dish nutritious and satisfying.

Using the Instant Pot takes away the long cooking time typical of chili dishes, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal in a fraction of the time. Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day, making it a great choice for meal prep.

how to make Instant Pot Turkey Chili

Making your own turkey chili in an Instant Pot is simple and requires just a few easy steps. Below are the detailed instructions to ensure you achieve a great result every time.

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 cook the vegetables and meat before pressure cooking.

2. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Pour a little olive oil into the pot and heat it up. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir them around and cook until the onions become translucent. This will take about 2-3 minutes. Sautéing the garlic and onion first gives the dish a rich flavor base.

3. Cook the Ground Turkey: Add the ground turkey to the pot. Cook it until it’s fully browned. Stir occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

4. Mix in the Vegetables and Grains: Next, add the diced sweet potato, rinsed quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon to mix everything together until well combined.

5. Add Spices: Now it’s time to season your chili. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to ensure that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

6. Seal and Cook: Close the lid of the Instant Pot securely. Turn the valve to the sealing position. Set the pot to ‘Manual’ mode and cook for 15 minutes. The high pressure will help all the flavors meld together while cooking the ingredients thoroughly.

7. Release Pressure: Once the cooking time is up, carefully perform a quick release of pressure. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for safety when releasing pressure.

8. Final Touches: Open the lid and give the chili a good stir. Taste it and adjust any seasonings if needed. If you prefer it spicier, feel free to add a pinch more chili powder!

9. Serve Hot: Ladle the chili into bowls and enjoy it hot. You can garnish it with some chopped greens, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream if you like.

how to serve Instant Pot Turkey Chili

Turkey chili is versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are some ideas:

• Toppings: Enhance your chili with toppings such as shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, green onions, or cilantro. Each topping can add different flavors and textures.

• Side Dishes: Serve the turkey chili with crusty bread or corn muffins for a hearty meal. You could also add a fresh garden salad to balance the dish.

• Containers: If you are having guests over, consider serving the chili in a large bowl allowing everyone to help themselves. For individual servings, use nice bowls to make it feel special.

• With Rice: You can serve the chili over a bed of rice or quinoa for added bulk and a different texture.

how to store Instant Pot Turkey Chili

Storing turkey chili is straightforward. After your chili has cooled down, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container, as the chili may expand slightly in the fridge.

Refrigeration

• In the Fridge: The stored chili can last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to consume it during this time for best quality.

Freezing

• Freezing Leftovers: If you want to keep the chili for a more extended period, you can freeze it. Place it in a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label it with the date so you know when to use it.

• Reheating: When you’re ready to eat your frozen chili, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. If it seems too thick after thawing, add a little chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

tips to make Instant Pot Turkey Chili

1. Customize the Heat: If you like spicy foods, consider adding jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce before serving. On the other hand, you can keep it mild by adjusting the amount of chili powder or choosing a milder variety.

2. Add Extra Veggies: Get creative and add more vegetables if you’d like. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even carrots can be delicious additions. Just dice them and add them in when you mix in the grains and beans.

3. Flavor Variations: Try different beans, like kidney beans or pinto beans, in place of black beans for a different taste. Experimenting with spices can also give you various flavor profiles.

4. Make it a One-Pot Meal: If you want to make this a complete meal in one pot, consider adding some corn or diced bell peppers during the cooking process.

5. Use Leftovers Creatively: If you have leftover chili, use it in different ways the next day. Try it as a filling for burritos, on top of baked potatoes, or even in quesadillas for an easy meal.

variation

While Instant Pot Turkey Chili is delicious on its own, here are a few variations you may want to try:

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground turkey with more beans or lentils. This ensures you maintain the protein content while keeping the dish meat-free.

• Spicy Chicken Chili: Instead of turkey, use ground chicken, and add more chili powder or spicy peppers for a kick.

• Pumpkin Chili: Incorporate canned pumpkin puree into the recipe. This adds creaminess and a subtle flavor that perfectly complements the spices.

• Tex-Mex Style: Add taco seasoning instead of the chili powder and cumin for a Tex-Mex twist. You can mix in some tortilla chips for added crunch.

FAQs

Can I make this chili ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare turkey chili ahead of time! The flavors often get better as it sits, making it a perfect dish for meal prep. You can store it in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze it for later use.

Can I use other meats instead of turkey?

Absolutely! This recipe can work well with ground beef, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes. Just make sure to cook the meat fully for best results.

Is this turkey chili gluten-free?

Yes, this Instant Pot Turkey Chili is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Always check the labels of the canned goods you use to ensure they are gluten-free.

Can I adjust the recipe to make a larger batch?

Yes, you can easily double the ingredients. Just ensure not to overload the Instant Pot; keep an eye on the maximum fill line. If you prepare a larger batch, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly.

What toppings pair well with turkey chili?

Toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, and fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions work beautifully with turkey chili. You can also use corn chips for crunch!

By following this easy recipe, you will surely enjoy making and sharing Instant Pot Turkey Chili with family and friends. Enjoy the warmth and hearty flavors all in a matter of minutes!

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