Panera Turkey Chili Recipe – Healthy, Hearty, and Comforting Copycat

Panera’s Turkey Chili has earned a loyal following for a reason: it’s wholesome, filling, and loaded with flavor. This high-protein chili is a lighter take on traditional beef chili, featuring ground turkey, kidney and garbanzo beans, vegetables, and a flavorful blend of Southwestern-inspired spices in a rich tomato base. Now you can recreate this restaurant favorite right at home with this easy stovetop recipe.

Whether you’re craving something warm and healthy or doing a copycat Panera week, this turkey chili is a satisfying one-pot wonder that’s perfect for lunches, meal prep, or cozy dinners.

---

What Makes Panera’s Turkey Chili So Good?

Unlike heavier chili recipes, Panera’s version is both nutritious and delicious. It has a thick, almost stew-like consistency, with a variety of beans, chunks of vegetables, and lean ground turkey. It’s naturally gluten-free, high in fiber and protein, and balanced with just the right amount of heat and sweetness.

The best part? It’s just as good (if not better) made at home — and you can customize it to your liking while controlling the sodium and spice.

---

Ingredient Breakdown: Key Elements in the Copycat Chili

Let’s look at what you’ll need to recreate this dish with authenticity and flavor:

Ground Turkey

Lean 93% ground turkey gives the chili its hearty texture without the heaviness of beef. It’s protein-rich and lower in saturated fat.

Kidney Beans & Garbanzo Beans

Panera’s recipe features a double-bean combo for texture and fiber. Kidney beans add a creamy, meaty bite, while garbanzos (chickpeas) offer a mild nuttiness.

Corn

Sweet corn kernels balance out the savory spices and give the chili a little pop of texture. Frozen or canned both work fine.

Fire-Roasted Tomatoes

These add depth and a subtle smoky flavor that sets this chili apart from more basic versions.

Tomato Paste

Helps build a rich base and thickens the chili as it simmers.

Carrots, Onion & Green Bell Pepper

This trio of vegetables adds natural sweetness, crunch, and layers of flavor to the chili. Dice them evenly for consistent texture.

Garlic

Classic chili flavor essential—adds aromatic depth.

Spices: Chili Powder, Cumin, Paprika, Oregano

Panera’s chili has warm Southwestern flavors. This blend captures the balance of heat and earthiness without being overpowering.

Broth

Use low-sodium chicken broth for flavor and to keep the chili moist but thick. Vegetable broth also works.

Lime Juice & Honey (Optional)

A splash of lime juice at the end adds brightness, while a small drizzle of honey or brown sugar rounds out the acidity.

---

How to Make Panera Turkey Chili at Home (Step-by-Step)

This copycat recipe comes together in just under an hour, all in one pot.

1. Sauté the Aromatics

In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, green bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

2. Brown the Turkey

Push the vegetables to the sides and add ground turkey to the center. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned and no longer pink, about 8 minutes.

3. Add Spices and Tomato Paste

Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and tomato paste. Cook for 1–2 minutes to bloom the spices and deepen flavor.

4. Pour in Tomatoes and Broth

Add fire-roasted tomatoes (with juices), broth, and drained beans. Stir everything together.

5. Simmer

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chili will thicken as it cooks.

6. Add Corn and Final Seasoning

Stir in corn during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, lime juice, or a touch of honey.

---

Variations, Swaps & Custom Tips

Protein Swaps:

• Ground chicken for an even leaner version

• Plant-based crumbles or lentils for a vegetarian alternative

• Add diced cooked sweet potato for a meatless boost

Extra Veggies:

• Zucchini, chopped spinach, or mushrooms can be stirred in

• Add roasted red peppers or poblano for smoky heat

Spice It Up:

• Add chipotle powder, cayenne, or diced jalapeños

• A splash of hot sauce adds a vinegary kick

Make It Creamy:

• Stir in ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream before serving

• Top with shredded cheddar, avocado, or tortilla strips

---

How to Serve Panera-Style Turkey Chili

This chili is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it pairs perfectly with:

• Crusty whole grain bread

• Cornbread muffins

• Side salad with citrus vinaigrette

• Steamed brown rice or quinoa

• Tortilla chips for scooping

Top it with:

• Fresh cilantro

• A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt

• Sliced green onions

• Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack

---

Nutrition & Health Notes

This turkey chili is:

• High in protein from turkey and beans

• Rich in fiber from legumes and vegetables

• Lower in fat and calories than traditional beef chili

• Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free (if toppings are omitted)

To make it even healthier:

• Use extra-lean ground turkey (99%)

• Add more vegetables

• Skip sweeteners or use less salt by starting with low-sodium ingredients

---

FAQ – Panera Turkey Chili Recipe

1. Is Panera Turkey Chili spicy?

No, it’s flavorful with mild warmth from chili powder and paprika. To make it spicier, add cayenne, hot sauce, or chipotle powder.

2. Can I freeze this chili?

Yes! It freezes beautifully. Let cool fully, then freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat on the stove or microwave.

3. What kind of beans are in Panera Turkey Chili?

Kidney beans and garbanzo beans (chickpeas) are the signature combo. You can add black beans or pinto beans for variety.

4. Can I make it in the slow cooker?

Yes. Brown the turkey and sauté vegetables first, then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.

5. How long does it keep in the fridge?

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors get even better after a day or two.

6. Is this chili Whole30 or keto-friendly?

As written, it contains beans and corn, which are not keto or Whole30. To adapt it:

• Omit beans and corn

• Add extra vegetables

• Use compliant broth and tomato products

7. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. This chili scales easily—just use a larger pot and increase simmering time slightly to let everything meld.

Print