Turkey Sweet Potato Chili : The Best Easy Healthy Fall Dinner

Fall calls for cozy sweaters, crisp air, and comforting bowls of chili simmering on the stove. And when you’re looking for something hearty, healthy, and full of flavor, this Turkey Sweet Potato Chili is exactly what you need. Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich sweet potatoes, and cozy spices, this bowl of goodness delivers the ultimate balance between indulgence and nourishment.

Whether you’re planning family meals, weeknight dinners, or make-ahead lunches, this chili is a go-to for easy healthy fall dinners. It’s perfect for those who love fall cooking recipes healthy and flavorful without the fuss.

Great for anyone on a health journey, parents looking for kid-approved meals, or meal-preppers seeking nutrient-dense dishes, this chili recipe ticks all the boxes. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and high in protein.

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Why Turkey Sweet Potato Chili Is the Ultimate Fall Dinner

This dish captures everything we love about fall healthy recipes dinner. The ground turkey brings lean, filling protein. Sweet potatoes offer earthy sweetness, balancing the gentle spice of chili powder and paprika. You also get a beautiful medley of vegetables — including carrots, which add a natural sweetness and enhance the hearty texture.

Unlike traditional chili, which often uses red meat and lots of beans, this version feels lighter yet still filling. It’s a fantastic one-pot meal to cozy up with during chilly nights, and also works great as a part of your fall time meals rotation.

Need more warm, satisfying meals? Try Slow Cooker Chicken Potatoes Green Beans for another nourishing and comforting option.

Ingredients for Turkey Sweet Potato Chili

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this warm and comforting chili. Don’t be intimidated — most of these are pantry staples or fridge regulars.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 medium sweet onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 2 medium potatoes)
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth

Optional: Add chopped kale or spinach during the last 5 minutes for extra greens.

This is a great example of sweet potato fall recipes that use up seasonal produce in a creative, cozy way. You can even prep extra sweet potatoes and use them in Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup or Sweet Potato Cinnamon Roll Cake.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Turkey Sweet Potato Chili

Making this sweet potato taco soup–style chili couldn’t be easier. Follow these simple steps to create the perfect pot of chili.

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, stirring and breaking it apart, until no longer pink.

Step 2: Add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion softens and becomes translucent, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 3: Stir in the sweet potatoes, carrots, and all the spices (chili powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper). Cook for another 5 minutes to allow the vegetables to start softening and absorb the spices.

Step 4: Pour in the canned tomatoes (with juices), beans, and broth. Stir everything together well and bring to a gentle boil.

Step 5: Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30–35 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes and carrots are tender and the chili thickens.

Step 6: Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve hot, topped with avocado, cilantro, or shredded cheese if desired.

It’s a one-pot wonder that’s even easier than Vegetarian Baked Ziti, and just as family-friendly.

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Healthy Fall Cooking Tips for This Chili Recipe

If you’re looking for ways to enhance your healthy fall meals, this chili offers a few clever hacks:

• Boost the greens: Toss in kale or baby spinach during the last few minutes of simmering.
• Add whole grains: Stir in a scoop of cooked quinoa or brown rice for added fiber and texture.
• Skip the beans: Prefer low-carb? Omit the beans and double the sweet potatoes or carrots.

And if you want another cozy, veggie-packed idea, pair this with Roasted Butternut Squash for the perfect fall meal combo.

Make It Your Way: Substitutions & Variations

Like many easy fall recipes dinner healthy lovers, you may want to tweak it to suit your pantry or preferences.

• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or extra cayenne.
• Vegan/Vegetarian: Swap the turkey for lentils or crumbled tofu. Use veggie broth instead of chicken broth.
• No sweet potatoes? Try butternut squash or pumpkin cubes for a similar flavor and texture.

You can even take inspiration from dishes like Sweet Chili Meatballs to create a chili version using ground chicken and spicy sweet glaze.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Turkey Sweet Potato Chili

Here are a few helpful tips to keep your chili from turning out bland or mushy:

• Undercooked sweet potatoes: Don’t rush the simmer. Let the potatoes and carrots soften fully to release their sweetness.
• Over-seasoning early: Chili spices intensify with simmering, so wait until the end to adjust.
• Skipping the sauté: Browning the onion and garlic before adding liquids enhances the chili’s depth.
• Too much liquid: Start with 1 ½ cups of broth and add more if needed. The chili should be thick and hearty, not soupy.

Serving Suggestions: Sides & Toppings That Work Best

While this chili is satisfying on its own, these simple pairings can take it up a notch:

• Toppings: Avocado slices, chopped cilantro, Greek yogurt or sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, or hot sauce.
• Sides: Cornbread, tortilla chips, or Garlic Herb Jalapeño Cheddar Beer Bread.
• Dessert: Finish with cozy fall flavors like Pumpkin Cream Puffs or Apple Pie Dip.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers Properly

This chili is even better the next day! Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Cool completely, then freeze in single portions for up to 3 months.
• To reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between.

This is a perfect meal-prep dish, just like Freezer Breakfast Sandwiches.

Can I Make This Turkey Sweet Potato Chili in a Crock Pot?

Absolutely. This is one of those fall chili recipes crock pot–ready meals. Here’s how:

• Brown the turkey and onion first on the stovetop.
• Add everything into your slow cooker, cover, and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
• Stir well before serving and top as desired.

Prefer something even more hands-off? Try Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal for a breakfast twist.

Fall Cooking Recipes Healthy Pairings and More Ideas

This chili pairs well with a wide variety of fall dishes that complement its hearty, savory notes. Consider:

• Mini Pumpkin Bread with Cinnamon Swirl
• Pumpkin Dump Cake for dessert
• Sweet Potato Toast as a simple side
• Slow Cooker Candied Cinnamon Pecans for a snack while it simmers

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

You don’t need much for this recipe, just a few basics:

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Can opener
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Optional: slow cooker or instant pot

Nutrition Benefits of Sweet Potatoes and Lean Turkey

Sweet potatoes are loaded with beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamin C, making them one of the most powerful fall superfoods. Pairing them with lean ground turkey — rich in protein, B vitamins, and zinc — makes this chili incredibly nutrient-dense.

This meal is also low in saturated fat, high in complex carbs, and filled with fiber from the beans and veggies.

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FAQs About Turkey Sweet Potato Chili

Can I freeze this chili?
Yes! It freezes beautifully. Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 3 months.

Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild kick. Add more cayenne or jalapeño for extra heat.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, swap the turkey for lentils, tofu, or additional beans and use vegetable broth.

Can I add corn or bell peppers?
Absolutely! Both add sweetness and texture.

How can I make it thicker?
Simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes or mash a few sweet potatoes into the chili.

Final Thoughts: Try This Easy Fall Recipe and Share It

This Turkey Sweet Potato Chili is one of those easy fall recipes dinner healthy and hearty — perfect for chilly evenings, busy families, or anyone craving a clean comfort meal. It’s simple, delicious, and deeply satisfying.

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it, pin it to your favorite fall board, and subscribe for more seasonal favorites like Pumpkin Cheesecake Truffles or Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls.

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