Leftover Turkey Chili

This Leftover Turkey Chili recipe is perfect for when the holiday feasts come to an end and we find ourselves with an abundance of leftover turkey. Transform those holiday remnants into something exciting and delicious. Whether you’re looking to repurpose your Thanksgiving or Christmas meal, or you simply want to enjoy a warm and satisfying meal on a chilly evening, this is a comforting dish that brings new life to your leftovers.

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If you have leftover turkey from Thanksgiving, no need to throw it out! There’s also no need to make turkey sandwiches every day either.

If you used my Cajun Turkey recipe then you are really in for a treat because you are starting with turkey that is loaded with flavor!

How to Make Leftover Turkey Chili

Detailed measurements and full instructions can be found in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

1. Place a Dutch oven or soup pot on medium-high heat. Add olive oil, onions, and peppers. Saute until translucent and fragrant.
2. Add in garlic and stir.
3. Add in broth, cooked turkey, beans, chili seasoning, beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Stir.
4. Simmer.

How to Thicken

The best way to get thick chili is to not go overboard with liquids. I only use 1 cup of broth in this recipe. The remaining liquid comes from the diced chilis and tomatoes and the tomato sauce, which will thicken as the chili simmers.

What Type of Beans to Use

You can use whatever you like. Just about anything will pair nicely. I like to use red kidney beans and black beans. You can also use chili beans or any legumes. Be sure to drain your beans first if used canned.

How to Make it Spicy

I’m a huge fan of spicy chili so I add a tablespoon of red cayenne pepper. If you want it to be slightly spicy, use a teaspoon and build from there if you wish.

If you don’t want it spicy omit the cayenne pepper completely. You may also need to test out the chili powder you use as well, if you are extremely sensitive to spice. Sometimes, people report chili powder as spicy, but it should not be.

Do You Need to Use a Slow Cooker?

No, your turkey is already fully cooked. You can slow cook if you wish, but not necessary. You need a large pot or Dutch oven.

What to Serve and Pair With the Chili

Keto Low Carb Cornbread
Air Fryer Cornbread
Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread
Southern Classic Homemade Cornbread
Southern Cornbread Dressing

Topping Ideas

• Shredded Cheese
• Plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
• Jalapenos
• Cooked and Crumbled Bacon
• Sliced Avocado

How Long Will it Last in the Fridge

How long is it good for? If you are using leftover turkey from the holiday, turkey lasts up to 4 days in the fridge. You can make an argument that reheating and cooking it again can extend the life, but not certain. If you don’t plan to eat the chili within that window, it works great for freezing and is safe to do.

Freezer Tips

I love to freeze it using these freezer soup molds from Amazon. It will freeze for up to several months. I like to defrost it overnight in the fridge and then reheat.

More Chili Recipes

Instant Pot White Chicken Chili
Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili
Keto Low Carb Chili
Instant Pot Beef Chili
Pumpkin Chicken Chili
Sweet Potato Chili
Creamy Seafood Chili
Buffalo Chicken Chili
Chili Cheese Fries
Slow Cooker Crockpot Chili Mac
Butternut Squash Chili

More Leftover Recipes

Leftover Turkey Nachos
Leftover Turkey and Rice Soup
Turkey Bone Broth
Leftover Ham and Cheese Panini
Grand Marnier Cranberry Sauce
Turkey and Cheese Sliders

More Turkey Recipes

Smothered Turkey Wings
Baked Turkey Wings
Air Fryer Turkey Legs
Air Fryer Turkey Wings
Air Fryer Turkey Breast
Slow Cooker Crockpot Turkey Breast
Cajun Spiced Roasted Turkey
Leftover Turkey Nachos
Leftover Turkey Wild Rice Soup
Turkey Bone Broth Recipe
Instant Pot Turkey Breast
Stuffed Turkey Legs
Slow Cooker Turkey Legs
Traeger Smoked Turkey

Check out The Best Healthy Chili Recipes here.
Check out my Homemade Chili Seasoning, Slow Cooker Crockpot Chicken and Rice and How to Make a Charcuterie Cheese Board here.