A Comforting Taste of Home: Panera Bread Turkey Chili

Nothing says comfort quite like a steaming bowl of chili. When I think of all the cold winter days spent snuggled up around the table with my family, memories of hearty home-cooked meals come to mind. And the beloved Panera Bread turkey chili recipe certainly lives up to the iconic meal I love so dearly.

This recipe is a flavorful take on chili that showcases the warm, spiciness of aromatic cumin and chili powder alongside the smoky notes of smoked paprika and garlic. Served with either a sprinkle of shredded cheese, diced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream, it’s a dish that truly satisfies.

Brimming with ground turkey, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and a few extra veggies, this dish is healthy while still feeling like a satisfying meal fit for any occasion. Even better, it’s simple enough to make in a few short steps, making it the perfect go-to on busy weeknights.

The cultural components of this recipe draw inspiration from all around the world, While the ground turkey and kidney beans bring a savory American flavor, the smoked paprika adds a subtle piquancy that’s reminiscent of Spanish and Cuban cooking. This flavor interplay truly makes it a chili for all to enjoy.

To make the Panera Bread turkey chili, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ pounds ground turkey
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 jalapeno, seeded and diced
• 2 (15 ounce) cans red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground pepper

Instructions

1. Place a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add in the oil and onion, cook for about 4 minutes
2. Add the oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and garlic, stir to combine
3. Add the ground turkey, red bell pepper, and jalapeno and cook until turkey is browned and vegetables are softened, 8-10 minutes
4. Add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, sugar, lime juice, salt, and pepper, stir
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 25-35 minutes
6. Serve with shredded cheese, diced green onions, and/or a dollop of sour cream, if desired.

I know this classic comfort food will undoubtedly bring a comforting taste to your table, no matter if it’s enjoyed solo or with friends and family around. Enjoy!