Name: Cozy Up with Easy Healthy Butternut Squash Turkey Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Olive Oil; 1 pound Ground Turkey (93/7) (or ground chicken or beef); 3 cloves Garlic (minced) (or 1 tsp garlic powder); 1 medium Onion (diced) (or shallots); 1 cup Bell Pepper (diced) (any color or zucchini); 2 tablespoons Chili Powder (or mix paprika and cayenne); 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (optional); 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (or regular paprika); 1 teaspoon Cumin (or ground coriander); to taste Salt; to taste Black Pepper; 1 can (15 oz) Kidney Beans (or black beans or chickpeas); 1 can (14.5 oz) Diced Fire Roasted Tomatoes (or regular diced tomatoes); 1 can (6 oz) Tomato Paste (or crushed tomatoes); 2 cups Chicken Broth (or vegetable broth); 3 cups Butternut Squash (cubed) (or sweet potatoes)

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There’s nothing quite like the sweet, earthy aroma of butternut squash simmering away on the stove, especially when the air turns crisp and the leaves start to fall. One evening, searching for comfort after a long day, I whipped up this Easy Healthy Butternut Squash Turkey Chili, and it transformed my kitchen into a cozy haven. With its hearty texture and rich flavors, this dish is more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl.

What I love most about this chili is how it marries the classic boldness of chili with the wholesome goodness of butternut squash, making it gluten-free, dairy-free, and incredibly satisfying. Plus, it takes just a short time to prepare whether you’re using the stovetop or a slow cooker, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends. Get ready for a warm and comforting dish that will bring a smile to your face and deliver all the nutrition you need!

Why is Easy Healthy Butternut Squash Turkey Chili a must-try?

Comforting flavors: This chili combines the heartiness of traditional chili with the sweet creaminess of butternut squash.
Quick prep: In as little as 30 minutes on the stovetop, you can enjoy a warm and satisfying meal.
Versatile: Feel free to swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs—it’s easy to personalize!
Crowd-pleaser: Whether feeding your family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Nutritious: Each bowl is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins—a guilt-free way to indulge in comfort food.
If you’re looking for more hearty options, check out my other cozy recipes that are perfect for chilly evenings!

Easy Healthy Butternut Squash Turkey Chili Ingredients

For the Base

Olive Oil – Adds healthy fat and helps sauté; avocado oil can also be used.
Ground Turkey (93/7) – Provides lean protein and a hearty base; consider ground chicken or beef as alternatives.
Garlic (minced) – Enhances flavor depth; you can use garlic powder (1 tsp) if you’re in a pinch.
Onion (diced) – Adds sweetness and texture; shallots can be a milder substitute.
Bell Pepper (diced) – Contributes sweetness and color; any color bell pepper or even zucchini can work.

For the Seasonings

Chili Powder – The key spice for chili flavor; mix paprika and cayenne for a similar effect if needed.
Onion Powder – Enhances overall flavor; feel free to omit it if it’s not available.
Smoked Paprika – Adds a delightful smokiness to the dish; regular paprika can be substituted if necessary.
Cumin – Offers earthy undertones; ground coriander can be used as an alternative.
Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning to taste; you can use sea salt or kosher salt for added flavor.

For the Chili

Kidney Beans (15 oz can) – Adds protein and fiber for a hearty touch; black beans or chickpeas make good substitutes.
Diced Fire Roasted Tomatoes (14.5 oz can) – Provides acidity and texture; regular diced tomatoes or tomato sauce work well too.
Tomato Paste (6 oz can) – Thickens chili and intensifies tomato flavor; additional crushed tomatoes can replace it.
Chicken Broth (2 cups) – Adds depth of flavor; swap for vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Butternut Squash (cubed, 3 cups) – Adds sweetness and texture; sweet potatoes or regular potatoes can be good alternatives.

With these wholesome ingredients, your Easy Healthy Butternut Squash Turkey Chili is just around the corner!

How to Make Easy Healthy Butternut Squash Turkey Chili

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Watch as it shimmers, creating the perfect foundation for your chili.
Add ground turkey to the pot; season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, breaking it into small pieces until it’s nearly cooked through.
Incorporate minced garlic, diced onions, and diced bell peppers into the mix. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions are tender and fragrant.
Mix in chili powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, black pepper, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Cook for an additional 3 minutes to allow the spices to bloom.
Add chicken broth and cubed butternut squash to the pot. Stir everything together, creating a symphony of colors and aromas.
Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the butternut squash is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.

Optional: Garnish with sliced avocado or fresh cilantro for an extra flavor boost.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

This Easy Healthy Butternut Squash Turkey Chili is a fantastic choice for meal prep aficionados! You can chop the vegetables (onions, bell peppers, and butternut squash) and refrigerate them for up to 3 days in advance, which saves valuable time on busy weeknights. Additionally, you can cook the entire chili and let it cool before storing it in an airtight container for up to 6-7 days in the fridge or freeze portions for up to 4 months. To serve, simply reheat the chili on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Trust me, it will be just as delicious, making your dinner effortless yet satisfying!

Expert Tips for Easy Healthy Butternut Squash Turkey Chili

Cook Thoroughly: Always ensure ground turkey reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Season Gradually: Add seasonings in layers, tasting as you go to avoid overpowering the dish. Adjust to suit your palate for the best chili experience.
Simmer Longer: If time allows, let the chili simmer longer for a deeper flavor. This helps meld all the ingredients beautifully.
Avoid Mushy Squash: Cut butternut squash into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking. Avoid overcooking or it can turn mushy.
Personalize It: Feel free to swap out beans or add extra veggies. Zucchini and carrots work wonderfully to sneak in more nutrition.
Chili Consistency: If your chili is too thick, add a splash of broth or water. For a thicker chili, simply let it simmer uncovered longer.

Easy Healthy Butternut Squash Turkey Chili Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful chili and make it unique to your taste!

Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to up the heat level and tantalize your taste buds.
Veggie Boost: Stir in shredded carrots or diced zucchini for extra nutrition and beautiful color. Each veggie adds its unique texture and flavor.
Vegan Option: Replace ground turkey with lentils or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty vegan twist, making it just as filling and delicious.
Beans Galore: Mix and match beans; black beans or chickpeas can easily substitute kidney beans, bringing different flavors and textures to each bowl.
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley added at the end can brighten flavors and add a fresh pop to your chili. A little goes a long way!
Sweet Balance: For a subtle sweetness, toss in a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey to complement the squash’s natural sweetness.
Creamy Goodness: Stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or coconut cream when serving for a creamy finish that enhances the chili’s richness.
Citrus Zing: A squeeze of lime juice adds a refreshing zing, cutting through the richness and elevating the overall flavor profile.

With these variations, your Easy Healthy Butternut Squash Turkey Chili will be as unique as your culinary inspirations!

How to Store and Freeze Easy Healthy Butternut Squash Turkey Chili

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 6-7 days. Make sure it cools completely before refrigerating to preserve its freshness.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze in airtight bags for up to 3-4 months. Label with the date for easy reference when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until steaming hot, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Texture Tip: If the chili thickens in the fridge or freezer, add a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating to restore its comforting consistency.

What to Serve with Easy Healthy Butternut Squash Turkey Chili?

As the rich aroma of chili fills your kitchen, consider these delightful pairings to elevate your meal.

Creamy Avocado Toast: The smoothness of ripe avocado complements the spiciness of chili perfectly, adding a fresh twist to each bite.
Cornbread Muffins: These subtly sweet muffins are a classic side, soaking up the chili while providing a delightful contrast in texture. Freshly baked, they’re simply irresistible!
Crispy Tortilla Chips: Crunchy and salty, these chips are great for dipping into the chili, adding a fun texture while enhancing the overall flavor experience.
Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of warm bread pairs beautifully with chili, offering a comforting side that everyone will love.
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a zesty vinaigrette brings refreshing crunch and bright flavors that balance the heartiness of chili.
Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant rice dish adds brightness and complements the chili’s warmth, making every spoonful feel special.
Spicy Pickles: Adding a touch of acidity, spicy pickles can cut through the richness and add a delightful kick alongside the chili.

Consider these pairings to create a complete meal that warms your heart and delights your taste buds!

Easy Healthy Butternut Squash Turkey Chili Recipe FAQs

What type of butternut squash should I use for optimal sweetness?
I recommend choosing a butternut squash that feels heavy for its size with a smooth, beige skin. Avoid squashes with dark spots or blemishes, as these can indicate overripeness or spoilage. When cubing, look for flesh that is bright orange to ensure it’s sweet and tender!

How should I store leftover chili?
You can store your Easy Healthy Butternut Squash Turkey Chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 6-7 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating to keep it fresh. For longer storage, you can freeze it!

Can I freeze the chili, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your chili, let it cool completely, then transfer it into airtight freezer bags or containers. Lay the bags flat in the freezer for easy stacking. It should hold its quality for up to 3-4 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating!

What should I do if my chili turns out too thick?
If your chili is thicker than you’d like, simply stir in a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up as you reheat. Letting it simmer uncovered for a few minutes can also help if you’ve got time, as that will allow some of the liquid to evaporate.

Are there any common allergens in this recipe?
This recipe is generally safe for many diets, being gluten-free and dairy-free. However, it does contain beans, which some may be sensitive to. If you’re cooking for someone with prevalent allergies, always check your ingredient labels for any hidden allergens, particularly in canned goods.

Can I add vegetables to the chili without compromising flavor?
Very much so! Feel free to sneak in some extra veggies such as zucchini or carrots. Just dice them small and add them during the sautéing stage with the onions and peppers. This will enhance the chili’s flavor while boosting its nutrition, keeping every bite wholesome and delicious!