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
- 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. - Brown the turkey
Add ground turkey to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink. - Add seasonings
Stir in thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. - Combine beans & broth
Add the white beans and chicken broth. Stir well. - Simmer
Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes. - Stir in greens
Add the spinach and dried cranberries (if using). Simmer 2–3 minutes until the spinach wilts. - 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