Spiced Turkey Chili with Cocoa & Cinnamon

Deeply warming, high-protein, and perfect for batch cooking through the holidays.

When the air turns crisp and evenings stretch longer, this is the kind of meal that feels like a hug.
This Spiced Turkey Chili with Cocoa & Cinnamon is rich, smoky, and full of quiet luxury — a little sweet, a little heat, and deeply comforting. The cocoa doesn’t make it taste like chocolate; it just adds a silky depth, like something you’d find simmering in a chic mountain café.

It’s high-protein, freezer-friendly, and feels indulgent without being heavy — ideal for cozy nights or meal prep during the holiday rush.

Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 1 pound ground turkey (lean or 93%)

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained

• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained

• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1 tablespoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon cayenne (optional, for spice)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• Fresh lime juice, to taste

• Optional toppings: Greek yogurt, avocado, cilantro, shredded cheese, or pumpkin seeds

Instructions

1. Sauté the aromatics.
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

2. Brown the turkey.
Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until cooked through and lightly browned. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

3. Add the spices and cocoa.
Stir in chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cinnamon, and cocoa powder. Toast the spices for 30 seconds to deepen their flavor — this step is the secret to that rich, slow-cooked taste.

4. Simmer to perfection.
Add tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, beans, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chili will thicken and the flavors will deepen beautifully.

5. Taste and finish.
Stir in a squeeze of lime juice for brightness and adjust seasoning if needed.

Serving Ideas

Serve it with a sprinkle of sharp cheddar, a swirl of Greek yogurt, or buttery cornbread on the side.
If you want a Live Deliciously twist — top it with avocado slices, a drizzle of olive oil, and fresh herbs for that elevated touch.

Storage & Meal Prep

This chili tastes even better the next day. Store it in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Perfect for Sunday batch cooking or cozy weeknights when you want something hearty and grounding.

Live Deliciously Tip

Add a few dark chocolate chips while it simmers if you want a deeper, silkier finish. It’s not about sweetness — it’s about sophistication.