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Diabetic Chili

A hearty and healthy chili packed with lean protein and fiber-rich beans, perfect for managing blood sugar while satisfying your taste buds.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 284 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 500 g lean ground turkey or 93% lean ground beef Feel free to substitute ground chicken for turkey.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large bell peppers, diced
  • 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (no sugar added)
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken or beef broth
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp oregano
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional, for heat
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings

  • shredded cheddar cheese
  • Greek yogurt (as a sour cream substitute)
  • sliced avocado
  • fresh cilantro
  • diced jalapeño
  • lime wedges

Instructions
 

Sautéing

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey or beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for 5–6 minutes until browned and no longer pink.

Adding Veggies

  • Incorporate diced onion and bell peppers. Cook for 4–5 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. Add minced garlic, stirring until fragrant (about 30 seconds).

Spice It Up

  • Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Stir for 1 minute to let the spices bloom.

Combine the Sauces

  • Pour in the diced tomatoes and their juices, tomato paste, and broth. Stir until mixed.

Add the Beans

  • Mix in the drained kidney and black beans, ensuring they’re well coated.

Simmer to Perfection

  • Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Let the chili simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.

Final Adjustments

  • Taste your chili and adjust seasoning as needed. A squeeze of lime juice can brighten the flavor.

Serve

  • Ladle hot chili into bowls and top with Greek yogurt, cheese, avocado, cilantro, or jalapeño.

Notes

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This chili freezes well for up to 3 months. To enhance flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like oregano or thyme when it simmers.
Per serving: 18g net carbs, 24g protein, 10g fat, 284 calories. Calculated from the ingredient list.
Keyword Comfort Food, Diabetic Chili, Healthy Chili, Meal Prep, One Pot Meal