Turkey Chilli with Mexican Beans

Light, loaded with protein, and bursting with flavour.

If you're after something comforting but not too heavy, this turkey and bean chilli is your new weeknight hero. It’s light on calories, big on flavour, and packed with protein—perfect fuel for the day, without leaving you feeling sluggish after.

By using lean turkey mince and Mexican-style beans, you still get all the richness and heartiness of a classic chilli, just in a fresher, lighter way. The spice mix is simple but powerful: smoked paprika, cumin, and a whisper of cinnamon bring warmth and depth, while tomato purée gives it that thick, satisfying base. A handful of fresh coriander at the end lifts everything.

Serve it with fluffy rice and a good dollop of guacamole, and you've got a full meal that’s nutritious, balanced, and seriously moreish.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Chilli:

• 500g lean turkey mince

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 heaped tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• ¼ tsp ground cinnamon

• 2 tbsp tomato purée

• 400g tin chopped tomatoes

• 400g tin mixed Mexican beans (drained and rinsed)

• Salt & pepper to taste

• Fresh coriander (a handful, chopped)

To Serve:

• Steamed rice

• Guacamole (store-bought or homemade)

Method

1. Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft and golden, about 5 minutes.

2. Add the garlic, paprika, cumin, and cinnamon. Stir for a minute until fragrant.

3. Add the turkey mince and cook until browned all over, breaking it up with your spoon.

4. Stir in the tomato purée, then add the chopped tomatoes and beans. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Simmer gently for 20–25 minutes until thickened and rich.

6. Just before serving, stir through the chopped coriander.

Why You'll Love It:

• Light but satisfying – no food coma here!

• High-protein for sustained energy

• Batch-friendly – great for meal prep

• Customisable – dial the spices up or down to your taste

Serve it up hot, topped with a spoon of guac, and maybe a squeeze of lime if you're feeling fancy. This is chilli done the feel-good way.