Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
Add the diced yellow onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink.
Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper, ensuring the turkey is evenly coated.
Add the diced zucchini to the pot and cook for another 2 minutes to slightly soften the vegetable.
Pour in the tomato puree and water, stirring well to combine all the ingredients into a thick chili consistency.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the zucchini is tender and the smoky flavors have fully melded.
Serve the chili hot in a bowl, garnished with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime if desired.