Last Updated on January 13, 2025 by Arif Chowdhury

When the weather turns chilly or you’re just craving a hearty meal, nothing beats a warm bowl of chili. But what if you could enjoy this comfort food without the extra calories? Enter ground turkey chili with diced carrots and celery!

This delightful dish is not only packed with flavor but also brings a nutritious twist to a classic favorite.

Let’s explore how you can make this satisfying meal that aligns perfectly with your weight loss goals.

The Benefits of Ground Turkey

Ground turkey has become a go-to ingredient for those looking to eat healthier. Why? For starters, it’s leaner than ground beef, making it a great option for lower-calorie meals.

According to the USDA, a 3-ounce serving of 93% lean ground turkey contains about 170 calories and 22 grams of protein. This high protein content is crucial for weight loss as it helps maintain muscle mass while keeping you feeling full longer.

Additionally, turkey is rich in B vitamins, particularly niacin and B6, which are essential for energy metabolism. Choosing turkey over fattier meats can significantly reduce your caloric intake while still providing the essential nutrients your body needs.

Why Add Carrots and Celery?

Adding diced carrots and celery not only enhances the flavor of your chili but also boosts its nutritional profile. Carrots are a fantastic source of beta-carotene, which your body converts into vitamin A.

This vitamin is crucial for vision, immune function, and skin health. A cup of chopped carrots has about 50 calories and provides over 200% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin A!

Celery, on the other hand, is often underestimated. With only about 14 calories per cup, it’s a great way to add volume to your chili without adding many calories. Plus, it’s hydrating and contains antioxidants that help combat inflammation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For a hearty chili that serves 6, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chili:

• 1 pound ground turkey (93% lean)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth

Optional Toppings:

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Avocado slices
• Lime wedges
• Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream

Cooking Time

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables (10 minutes)

• Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
• Cook the Onions and Garlic: Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
• Add Carrots and Celery: Toss in the diced carrots and celery. Sauté for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 2: Brown the Turkey (5 minutes)

Add Ground Turkey: Push the sautéed vegetables to the side of the pot and add the ground turkey. Cook for about 5 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula until it’s browned and no longer pink.

Step 3: Add the Remaining Ingredients (15 minutes)

• Combine Everything: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), kidney beans, black beans, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is combined.
• Pour in the Broth: Add the chicken or vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
• Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and gives the chili a thick, hearty consistency.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy! (5 minutes)

• Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or chili powder, depending on your preference.
• Dish It Up: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your choice of garnishes such as fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this ground turkey chili contains approximately:

• Calories: 240
• Protein: 25 grams
• Fiber: 10 grams
• Fat: 5 grams

Why This Recipe Works for Weight Loss

This ground turkey chili is a fantastic weight loss recipe for several reasons. First, it’s low in calories while being high in protein and fiber, both of which are vital for feeling full and satisfied.

A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that high-protein diets can help reduce hunger and promote weight loss.

The addition of nutrient-dense vegetables like carrots and celery means you’re getting more vitamins and minerals with fewer calories. This is a win-win for anyone looking to eat healthier without feeling deprived.

Tips for Customization

• Spice Level: If you like your chili with a kick, feel free to add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix.
• Vegetarian Option: For a meatless version, substitute the ground turkey with lentils or quinoa, and use vegetable broth.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to sneak in other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn. This is a great way to use up leftover veggies and add even more nutrients!

A Cozy and Nutritious Bowl

There’s something wonderfully comforting about a bowl of chili, especially when it’s packed with wholesome ingredients like ground turkey, carrots, and celery. This recipe not only warms you up but also supports your journey towards a healthier lifestyle without compromising on flavor.

So next time you’re in the mood for something hearty, remember this ground turkey chili recipe—it’s a delicious way to stay on track with your weight loss goals while enjoying every bite!