After a hearty Thanksgiving feast, there’s nothing better than a comforting bowl of chili to round off the celebrations. This savory white chili not only adds a spicy kick to your meal but also creatively utilizes leftover turkey, transforming it into a delicious new family favorite.
Following the abundance of traditional Thanksgiving dishes, we craved something with a bit of heat. With plenty of leftover turkey on hand, we decided to whip up a white chili that perfectly incorporated the remaining meat. The result was unexpectedly delightful—rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.
This recipe is an excellent way to repurpose your holiday turkey, offering a warm and hearty dish that’s sure to become a staple in your family’s culinary repertoire. The beans achieve a creamy consistency as they simmer, while the blend of chili spices delivers the perfect balance of flavors. Enhanced by a touch of Rotel and a homemade seasoning blend, this chili has just the right amount of zest. Topped with shredded mozzarella and a dollop of sour cream, and served alongside a slice of cornbread, it’s pure comfort in a bowl.
Ingredients for Savory Leftover Turkey White Chili
- 2 lb (1 kg) white beans, dried
- 1 large (lg) onion
- 2 Tbsp (30 ml) garlic, diced
- 1 can (4 oz / 120 g) green chiles, mild
- 1 can (14.5 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes with green chiles
- 8 cups (2 liters) chicken broth
- 2 tsp (10 g) salt
- 1 tsp (5 g) white pepper
- 8 oz (230 g) cream cheese, room temperature
- 2 packets McCormick white chili seasoning
- 1-2 lb (0.5-1 kg) chopped turkey (chicken can be used as an alternative)
- 1 bag (approx. 2 cups / 200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- Optional: sour cream, crackers, cornbread
How to Prepare Savory Leftover Turkey White Chili
- Prepare the Beans: Begin by cleaning the white beans and covering them with water according to the package instructions. Bring the beans to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Add salt, pepper, chopped onion, and diced garlic. Allow the mixture to simmer uncovered for 1 ½ hours.
- Add Chicken Broth: As the liquid starts to reduce, gradually add chicken broth to maintain the desired consistency. Continue to simmer until the beans are tender, adding more water if necessary.
- Incorporate Green Chiles and Tomatoes: Once the beans are tender, add the can of mild green chiles and the diced tomatoes with green chiles to the pot.
- Season the Chili: Stir in the McCormick white chili seasoning packets, ensuring the spices are well distributed throughout the mixture.
- Add Chopped Turkey: Fold in the chopped turkey, allowing it to meld with the tender beans and absorb the flavorful broth.
- Simmer the Chili: Let the chili cook on low heat for the rest of the day. This extended simmering time allows the spices and flavors to fully develop and blend together.
- Incorporate Cream Cheese: Thirty minutes before serving, chop the cream cheese into small pieces and add it to the chili. Let it melt completely, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- Final Stir and Serve: Ensure the chili is well stirred to maintain a smooth consistency. Serve hot in bowls, topped with shredded mozzarella, a dollop of sour cream, and accompanied by crackers or a slice of cornbread if desired.
This savory leftover turkey white chili is more than just a post-Thanksgiving meal—it’s a testament to the creativity and warmth of holiday cooking. By transforming your turkey leftovers into a hearty chili, you not only reduce food waste but also create a dish that’s rich in flavor and comfort. Whether you’re enjoying it with family or serving it at gatherings, this chili is sure to impress and satisfy, making it a cherished addition to your recipe collection.
