DFCI Zakim Center

White Turkey Chili

1 Apr, 2026

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups dried navy beans, sorted and rinsed
  • 8 cups water
  • 16 - 32 ounces chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon dried basil leaves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground red cayenne pepper
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 2 4-ounce cans chopped green chilies (do not drain)
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 pound turkey breast tenderloins cut into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese

Directions:

  1. Place beans and water in a 4-quart Dutch oven. Soak at least 8 hours but no longer than 10 hours; drain.
  2. Stir in remaining ingredients except turkey and cheese. Heat to boiling; reduce heat. Cover and simmer about 1 hour or until beans are tender.
  3. Stir in turkey. Simmer uncovered about 15 minutes or until turkey is no longer pink in the center.
  4. Sprinkle with cheese.

Yield:

8 servings

Nutrition Tip

Turkey is a great source of amino acids — the building blocks of protein. Turkey is also a source of L-tryptophan which can have a relaxing effect. Tryptophan helps with the production of serotonin, a mood regulator within the body.

Generally low in fat and high in protein, turkey is a good source of iron, zinc, phosphorus, potassium, and B vitamins.