Here’s a high-protein, nutrient-packed recipe for Ground Turkey Chili with Kidney Beans and a lighter, muscle-friendly Side of Cornbread
perfect for bodybuilders or anyone craving a hearty, balanced meal packed with protein, fiber, and complex carbs!
Ground Turkey Chili
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground turkey (93% lean)
- 1 onion (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 bell pepper (diced)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (no salt added)
- 1 can (14 oz) kidney beans (rinsed and drained)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Optional toppings: avocado, Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, or cilantro
Instructions
1. Sauté Veggies: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes.
2. Brown Turkey: Add ground turkey and cook until no pink remains, breaking it into crumbles.
3. Add Spices: Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast spices.
4. Simmer: Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes.
5. Serve: Top with avocado, Greek yogurt, or cilantro for added flavor and healthy fats.
Bodybuilder-Friendly Cornbread
Ingredients (Serves 6-8)
- 1 cup whole-grain cornmeal
- 1/2 cup whole-wheat flour (or almond flour for lower carbs)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (optional: use sugar-free syrup for fewer carbs)
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or unsweetened applesauce)
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
1. Mix Dry Ingredients: Combine cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: Whisk egg, almond milk, Greek yogurt, and honey.
3. Combine: Add wet ingredients to dry and stir until just mixed.
4. Bake: Pour into a greased 8x8 pan. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden.
Macros (Per Serving: 1.5 cups chili + 1 slice cornbread)
- Calories: ~450-500 kcal
- Protein: ~35-40g (turkey + beans)
- Carbs: ~45-50g (beans + cornbread)
- Fats: ~10-12g (olive oil + turkey)
Why This Meal is Great for Bodybuilders
- High Protein: Ground turkey and kidney beans provide ~40g protein per serving for muscle repair and growth.
- Fiber & Complex Carbs: Beans and whole-grain cornbread fuel workouts and support digestion.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil and optional avocado add heart-healthy fats for hormone balance.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Both chili and cornbread freeze well for quick meals.
Pro Tips
- Boost Protein: Add a scoop of unflavored collagen or protein powder to the chili.
- Lower Carbs: Skip the cornbread and serve chili over cauliflower rice.
- Spice It Up: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.
Enjoy this hearty, muscle-building combo on rest days or post-workout! 🍲🌽💪