This Turkey & Pale Ale Chili is a fresh, lean twist on classic chili — made with ground turkey, white beans, bold spices, and a splash of pale ale for citrusy, malty depth.

It’s hearty without being heavy, loaded with flavor, and comes together fast for busy nights or weekend meal prep.

The pale ale brightens the chili without overpowering it, making it the perfect balance of comfort and zip.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1½ lbs ground turkey (dark meat preferred for more flavor)
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp ground coriander (optional, adds citrusy warmth)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 oz pale ale (or amber ale if you want more malt)
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can white beans or black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup chicken broth (or more as needed)
• Juice of ½ lime (to finish)
• Optional: 1 chipotle in adobo for smoky heat

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Turkey

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

Add ground turkey and season with salt and pepper. Cook, breaking it up, until browned — about 7–8 minutes. Remove and set aside if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Veg

Add onion and bell pepper to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes until softened.

Add garlic, tomato paste, and spices. Cook 1–2 minutes, until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Beer

Pour in the pale ale to deglaze the pot, scraping up browned bits.

Let simmer for 2–3 minutes to cook off alcohol.

Step 4: Add Everything Else

Return the turkey to the pot. Add tomatoes, beans, and broth.

Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add more broth if needed for consistency.

Step 5: Finish with Lime

Stir in lime juice just before serving for brightness.

Taste and adjust seasoning.

Serving Ideas

• Top With:
  • Shredded cheddar or pepper jack
  • Avocado slices or guacamole
  • Fresh cilantro and lime wedges
  • Greek yogurt or sour cream
• Serve With:
  • Cornbread or tortilla chips
  • Grilled corn or rice
  • A cold pale ale or amber lager

Beer Pairing

• Use in chili: Pale ale, blonde ale, or citrusy amber
• Serve with: The same beer, or go hoppier with an IPA if you like bitterness with spice

Avoid dark stouts or porters — they’ll overpower the light, fresh flavor of the turkey.

Final Thoughts

Turkey & Pale Ale Chili is proof that light doesn’t mean boring — it’s bright, balanced, and loaded with flavor thanks to the beer, spice, and citrus finish.

It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, freezing for later, or serving alongside your favorite brew on game day.

Cheers to chili that lifts you up instead of weighing you down! 🦃🍺🌶️

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