Cozy Turkey & White Bean Holiday Chili (High-Protein, Comforting & GLP-1 Friendly)

Servings: 4–6 | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes

When the weather turns cold and schedules get busy, you need a meal that’s comforting, nourishing, and incredibly simple to make. This Turkey & White Bean Holiday Chili checks all the boxes — warm, high-protein, freezer-friendly, and gentle on the stomach for patients on GLP-1 medications.

With classic winter flavors like rosemary, thyme, garlic, and a hint of cranberry for brightness, this recipe brings a festive twist to a cozy weeknight meal.

⭐ Why This Recipe Works for a Weight-Care Plan

• Protein-forward: Keeps you full and supports metabolic health

• High fiber: Thanks to beans + vegetables

• Balanced flavors: Comforting without being overly rich

• GLP-1 friendly: Gentle, simple ingredients that digest well

• Busy-season approved: One pot, 30 minutes, minimal cleanup

🥣 Ingredients

Protein & Beans

• 1 lb lean ground turkey (93% or leaner)

• 2 cans (15 oz) white beans, drained & rinsed (cannellini or navy beans)

Vegetables

• 1 yellow onion, diced

• 2 carrots, diced

• 2 celery stalks, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Broth & Seasonings

• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• 1 cup frozen or fresh spinach

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp dried rosemary

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Festive twist

• ⅓ cup dried cranberries (optional — adds brightness but not sweetness overload)

🍲 Instructions

1. Sauté the vegetables
   
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5–6 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 additional minute.

2. Brown the turkey
   
   Add ground turkey to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink.

3. Add seasonings
   
   Stir in thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper.

4. Combine beans & broth
   
   Add the white beans and chicken broth. Stir well.

5. Simmer
   
   Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes.

6. Stir in greens
   
   Add the spinach and dried cranberries (if using). Simmer 2–3 minutes until the spinach wilts.

7. Taste & adjust
   
   Add salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Top with fresh parsley or chives

• Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness

• Serve with a small slice of whole-grain bread or a side salad

• For patients on GLP-1 medications: keep portions modest and enjoy slowly

💙 Maryland Weight Care Notes

This chili is:

✔ a great meal prep option

✔ freezer-friendly for up to 3 months

✔ adaptable — you can swap turkey for chicken or even tofu

✔ perfect for busy December nights when you want to stay nourished but not overwhelmed

✨ Ready to Feel Your Best This Winter?

If you want help building a sustainable nutrition plan — not a restrictive one — our team at Maryland Weight Care is here to support you.

👉 Book your free Intro Call with Dr. Parisi today: mdweightcare.com/free-consultation