Apple Sage Turkey Chili is like a warm hug in a bowl, bursting with flavors that dance on your taste buds. Imagine the crispness of fresh apples mingling with savory turkey and aromatic sage, creating a comforting aroma that wraps around you like your favorite cozy blanket. savory side dish perfect breakfast pairing This dish is perfect for those chilly evenings when you want to impress your guests or just need a little soul-soothing comfort food. quick and easy meal.
Every time I make Apple Sage Turkey Chili, I’m transported back to family gatherings where laughter fills the air and everyone eagerly anticipates what’s simmering in the pot. The blend of sweet and savory hits all the right notes, making it ideal for game nights, casual dinners, or even a festive Thanksgiving twist. great appetizer choice Trust me; once you take that first spoonful, you’ll be counting down to your next bowl!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Apple Sage Turkey Chili is incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights
- The unique flavor profile blends sweetness with savory depth, making it unforgettable
- Its vibrant colors and aromas will have everyone at the dinner table eager for a taste
- Versatile enough to serve on its own or with crusty bread, this chili adapts to any occasion effortlessly
I remember the first time I served this at my friend’s potluck. Everyone couldn’t stop raving about how unique it was!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Turkey: Lean and flavorful, it’s the star protein for this chili; opt for fresh if possible.
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Apples: Sweet varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji add an amazing contrast; peel them for best texture. For more inspiration, check out this sticky honey chicken recipe recipe.
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Onion: A medium yellow onion works beautifully here; sauté until soft for maximum sweetness.
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Sage: Fresh sage enhances the dish’s aroma; chop finely to release its wonderful fragrance.
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Garlic: Minced garlic brings depth; use fresh cloves for that irresistible aroma while cooking.
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Canned Tomatoes: Use diced tomatoes for acidity; they create a rich base and balance the sweetness.
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Beans: Black beans or kidney beans add texture; rinse them well before adding to the pot. For more inspiration, check out this country ranch green beans recipe.
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Chili Powder: A key spice that gives heat; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
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Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness; it helps meld all flavors together.
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Olive Oil: A splash is needed for sautéing vegetables and enhancing flavors beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sauté Your Base Ingredients: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add diced onions and minced garlic, stirring until they become fragrant and translucent.
Add Ground Turkey and Spices: Toss in ground turkey and cook until browned. Sprinkle chili powder over meat while cooking for extra flavor depth.
Incorporate Apples and Tomatoes: Stir in diced apples and canned tomatoes, allowing them to mingle with the turkey mixture as they soften slightly.
Add Beans and Broth: Pour in rinsed beans alongside chicken broth—this adds body to your chili while ensuring each bite is hearty.
Simmer Away!: Bring everything to a gentle boil then reduce heat. Allow chili to simmer uncovered for 30 minutes so flavors can develop beautifully.
Finish with Fresh Sage!: Just before serving, stir in chopped fresh sage. This will elevate your chili with aromatic freshness—trust me on this one!
Get ready to enjoy a bowl of comforting Apple Sage Turkey Chili that will surely have everyone coming back for seconds!
You Must Know
- Apple sage turkey chili is hearty and warming, perfect for chilly nights
- The sweet and savory blend of flavors creates a comforting bowl that feels like a hug
- Plus, you can customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by browning the turkey in a pot, then add onions and garlic for flavor. After that, toss in the spices and let them bloom before adding apple and broth for a well-rounded taste.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground turkey with beef or even lentils for a vegetarian option. You can also enhance the chili with beans, corn, or additional spices like cumin for extra warmth.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve maximum flavor, allow your chili to simmer longer; this deepens all those delicious notes
- Always season gradually—taste as you go!
- Don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor
Cooking this apple sage turkey chili always brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone rushed to grab a bowl first. Their smiles said it all, making every effort worth it.
FAQ
Can I use other meats instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Ground beef or chicken works well if you prefer different flavors.
How do I make it spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for some extra kick!
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes! Freeze individual portions for easy meals later on when hunger strikes.

Apple Sage Turkey Chili
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Warm up with this delicious Apple Sage Turkey Chili, a delightful blend of sweet apples, savory turkey, and fragrant sage. Perfect for chilly evenings or impressing guests, this hearty dish will become a family favorite. Its unique flavor profile and vibrant colors will have everyone at the table eager for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 medium Honeycrisp or Fuji apples, peeled and diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup black beans or kidney beans, rinsed
- 2 teaspoons chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant and translucent.
- Stir in ground turkey and cook until browned, adding chili powder for extra flavor.
- Mix in diced apples and canned tomatoes; let them soften slightly.
- Add rinsed beans and chicken broth; stir to combine.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30 minutes.
- Just before serving, stir in fresh chopped sage for aromatic freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg