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Green Chile Ground Turkey Skillet Recipe

3.9 from 72 reviews

This flavorful and hearty Green Chile Ground Turkey recipe combines lean ground turkey with sautéed onions, red peppers, and a blend of spices, simmered with mild diced green chiles, enchilada sauce, black beans, and corn. Topped with melted pepper Jack cheese and fresh cilantro, it’s a comforting, protein-packed meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 11/2 cups finely diced red onion (1 large onion)
  • 1 red pepper (diced)
  • 1 pound ground turkey (93/7 lean)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Spices and Flavors

  • 1 tablespoon ground chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 3/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 3/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic

Additional Ingredients

  • 1 (4-ounce) can mild diced green chiles (drained)
  • 3/4 cup mild green enchilada sauce
  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 11/2 cups frozen corn (optional)
  • 11/2 cups freshly shredded pepper Jack cheese
  • 1 lime (optional, for juice)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro

Toppings (Optional)

  • Extra cilantro
  • Thinly sliced avocado or guacamole
  • Sour cream
  • Crispy tortilla strips

Instructions

  1. Cook Onion and Turkey: Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and red pepper. Sauté until tender, about 5 to 7 minutes. Push the vegetables to the sides and add the ground turkey to the center. Season with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Crumble the turkey with a wooden spoon and cook, breaking it down as it cooks.
  2. Add Seasonings: When the turkey is mostly cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes, drain any excess liquid if present. Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, and an additional 3/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Add the minced garlic and cook while stirring constantly for another 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Simmer: Add the drained diced green chiles and mild green enchilada sauce to the pot, scraping the bottom to release any browned bits. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Stir in the drained and rinsed black beans and frozen corn. Warm everything through for about 3 to 4 minutes. Mix in lime juice and chopped cilantro if using. Remove the pot from heat.
  4. Finish with Cheese: Evenly cover the mixture in the pot with shredded pepper Jack cheese. Cover the pot with a lid or foil and let it stand for 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt thoroughly. Remove the lid and stir gently if desired.
  5. Serve with Toppings: Serve hot topped with optional fresh cilantro, thinly sliced avocado or guacamole, sour cream, and crispy tortilla strips to add texture and extra flavor.

Notes

  • Use lean ground turkey (93% lean, 7% fat) for best texture and flavor.
  • If you prefer a spicier dish, swap mild diced green chiles for hot ones.
  • Freshly shredded pepper Jack cheese melts better and tastes more flavorful than pre-shredded.
  • Optional toppings like avocado, sour cream, and tortilla strips add creaminess and crunch.
  • Adjust salt and pepper seasoning based on taste preferences.

Keywords: green chile ground turkey, turkey recipe, Mexican ground turkey, healthy turkey skillet, quick dinner, one-pot meal