If you’re craving a comforting, nutritious, and flavor-packed bowl of chili that doesn’t feel heavy, this Healthy White Turkey Chili with Avocado & White Beans is about to become your new favorite. Tender ground turkey simmers with creamy white beans, fire-roasted green chilies, aromatic garlic, onions, and warm spices in a light yet silky broth. Finished with fresh lime, cilantro, and creamy diced avocado, this chili delivers big flavor with wholesome ingredients. It’s high-protein, naturally gluten-free, meal-prep friendly, and perfect for chilly nights, weeknight dinners, or healthy lunches that still feel satisfying.
Why You’ll Love Healthy White Turkey Chili with Avocado & White Beans
This chili is the perfect balance of nutritious and comforting.
- Light yet creamy, satisfying without being too heavy.
- Packed with lean protein and fiber to keep you full.
- Made in one pot with simple ingredients.
- Fresh avocado adds richness without dairy.
- Perfect for meal prep, leftovers, and freezing.
- Ready in under an hour.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Unlike traditional chili, this recipe uses broth, white beans, and turkey for a lighter, brighter, and healthier flavor profile. The avocado topping adds creaminess without needing heavy cream, and the lime gives it a refreshing finish. It’s the type of meal that feels indulgent but fuels your body with nutrient-dense ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained & rinsed
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- Juice of 1 lime
- ½ cup Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
For Toppings
- Diced avocado
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Sliced jalapeño
- Shredded cheese (optional)
How to Make Healthy White Turkey Chili with Avocado & White Beans
- Cook the Turkey: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add onion and cook until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in cumin, oregano, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Coat turkey and onions evenly.
- Add Beans & Broth: Add white beans, green chilies, corn, and chicken broth. Stir well.
- Simmer: Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer 20–25 minutes until flavors meld and chili thickens slightly.
- Finish: Stir in lime juice. For a creamier texture, swirl in Greek yogurt.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with avocado, cilantro, jalapeño, or cheese.
Nutritional Information (Estimated per serving)
- Calories: 325
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 29g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sodium: 650mg
Tips for the Best Healthy White Turkey Chili
- Brown turkey well for deeper flavor.
- Add Greek yogurt at the end to avoid curdling.
- Mash some beans in the pot for a creamier texture without heavy cream.
- Add avocado right before serving to keep it fresh and green.
- Adjust broth to make chili thicker or thinner.
- Add lime last — it brightens the entire dish.
Variations & Substitutions
- Dairy-Free: Omit Greek yogurt or use coconut cream.
- Spicy Version: Add jalapeños, cayenne, or use spicy chilies.
- Vegetarian: Swap turkey for extra beans or plant-based crumbles.
- Low-Carb: Replace beans with cauliflower florets.
- Extra Veggies: Add zucchini, spinach, kale, or bell peppers.
- Creamier Option: Add 2 oz cream cheese at the end.
What to Serve with This Chili
- Warm cornbread or cornbread muffins
- Garlic bread or rolls
- Tortilla chips or baked pita chips
- Simple green salad
- Avocado lime rice or cilantro rice
- Grilled vegetables
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Curdling dairy: Add Greek yogurt off heat.
- Under-seasoning: Beans absorb flavor; adjust salt at the end.
- Boiling too hard: Simmer gently for best texture.
- Skipping fresh lime: It makes a huge difference.
- Adding avocado early: It will brown — add at serving time.
Storing Tips
- Store refrigerated for 3–4 days.
- Freezes beautifully for up to 2 months (without avocado).
- Reheat gently on the stove, adding broth if needed.
- Add fresh avocado and toppings after reheating.
Conclusion
This Healthy White Turkey Chili with Avocado & White Beans is nourishing, hearty, and incredibly satisfying — without feeling heavy. Each spoonful delivers creamy beans, savory turkey, bright lime, and cool avocado for the perfect contrast. Whether you’re craving comfort food, prepping lunches for the week, or serving your family a wholesome dinner, this recipe is a delicious, fulfilling choice you’ll want to make again and again.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of turkey?
Yes — shredded chicken works perfectly.
Is this chili spicy?
No — it’s mild, but you can add spice if you like.
Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Yes — brown turkey first, then cook on low 4–6 hours.
Can I thicken the chili more?
Mash some beans or simmer uncovered longer.
Can I freeze it?
Yes — freeze without dairy or avocado.
Can I use great northern beans or navy beans?
Absolutely — any white bean works.