Fall is the perfect season for cozy meals that warm you from the inside out. That’s why I’m kicking off a brand-new blog series: Healthy Fall Recipes. Every Thursday, I’ll be sharing a new recipe designed to keep you fueled, satisfied, and inspired all season long.
To start, I’ve got a hearty and protein-packed dish that’s become one of my go-to comfort meals: Red Lentil & Turkey Chili. It’s simple, nourishing, and comes together in one pot—making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Red Lentil & Turkey Chili
This recipe is full of flavor and packs in protein from both lean ground turkey and red lentils. The lentils not only boost the nutrition but also add thickness and heartiness to the chili without needing extra fillers.
Ingredients
- 1 pack ground turkey breast (about 1.5–1.6 lbs)
- 2 bell peppers, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, chopped
- 1 box chicken bone broth
- 1 can fire-roasted tomatoes
- 1 cup dried red lentils (rinsed, no need to soak)
- Chili seasonings to taste (I like chili powder, cumin, granulated garlic, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne)
Directions
- Brown the turkey. In an Instant Pot (or large pot on the stove), brown the ground turkey until fully cooked.
- Add the veggies. Stir in the bell peppers, onion, and jalapeño.
- Mix in the rest. Add the broth, fire-roasted tomatoes, lentils, and seasonings. Give everything a good stir.
- Cook.
- Instant Pot: Set to the stew/chili function and let it cook. Allow the pressure to naturally release when done.
- Stovetop: Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender.
Tips
✨ This chili is great for meal prep—make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
✨ Measurements don’t have to be exact; it’s a flexible recipe that you can adjust based on what you have on hand.
✨ Top it with your favorite chili add-ons like avocado, shredded cheese, or Greek yogurt.
That’s it for the first installment of my Healthy Fall Recipes series! I hope you love this chili! Be sure to check back every Thursday in September for another cozy and nutritious recipe.
