Hearty Butternut Turkey Chili: A Comforting Delight

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Hearty Butternut Turkey Chili is a nutritious and filling dish perfect for any occasion. This comforting butternut chili combines the rich flavors of ground turkey and tender butternut squash, creating a delightful meal that warms both the heart and the soul. Whether you’re looking for a healthy turkey chili dish or a spicy butternut turkey chili to spice up your weeknight dinners, this recipe is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Hearty Butternut Turkey Chili

This hearty turkey chili recipe is packed with flavors and nutrients that make it a standout dish. First, it’s loaded with protein thanks to the lean ground turkey, making it perfect for a healthy meal. The inclusion of butternut squash not only adds a delightful sweetness but also contributes essential vitamins and minerals, making this a nutritious turkey chili with squash. It’s an easy hearty turkey chili recipe that can be prepared in one pot, saving you time on cleanup. Plus, the combination of spices like chili powder and smoked paprika ensures every bite is bursting with flavor! This comforting butternut chili is also perfect for meal prep, as it stores well for days.

Ingredients for Hearty Butternut Turkey Chili

Gather these items:

1 pound lean ground turkey
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
Optional toppings: avocado, shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, sour cream

How to Make Hearty Butternut Turkey Chili Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Step 2: Add the ground turkey to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Add the diced butternut squash to the pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and the kidney beans. Stir to combine.
Step 6: Add the chicken broth, and stir well to incorporate all ingredients.
Step 7: Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
Step 8: Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the butternut squash is tender.
Step 9: In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the corn. Allow it to heat through.
Step 10: Before serving, taste the chili and adjust seasoning if needed.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Hearty Butternut Turkey Chili

Keep these in mind:

This chili can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings such as avocado or fresh cilantro for added flavor.
For an extra kick, consider adding jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce for a spicy butternut turkey chili.

Best Ways to Serve Hearty Butternut Turkey Chili

This turkey chili with butternut squash is delicious on its own, but here are some serving ideas:

Top with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream for a creamy finish.
Serve with crusty bread or cornbread for a hearty meal.
Garnish with fresh cilantro or avocado for a refreshing touch and to enhance the flavors of this comfort food turkey chili with butternut squash.

How to Store and Reheat Hearty Butternut Turkey Chili

This dish is perfect for meal prep! Simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. This one-pot butternut turkey chili recipe makes it easy to enjoy delicious meals throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hearty Butternut Turkey Chili

What is hearty butternut turkey chili?

Hearty butternut turkey chili is a nutritious and filling dish that combines ground turkey with diced butternut squash, beans, and spices, creating a comforting meal that is both flavorful and healthy.

Can I make hearty butternut turkey chili ahead of time?

Yes! You can make this chili ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months, making it a convenient meal prep option.

How do I avoid common mistakes with hearty butternut turkey chili?

To avoid common mistakes, be sure to season adequately and allow the chili to simmer long enough for the flavors to meld together. Adjust spices to your taste preferences for the best results.

Variations of Hearty Butternut Turkey Chili You Can Try

Here are some delicious variations to consider:

Try adding black beans or pinto beans for a different texture.
Incorporate different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
Make it a low-calorie turkey chili with squash by using less oil and low-sodium broth.

For more delicious recipes, check out our Grilled Cheese Patty Melts or Pumpkin Chicken Chili. You can also explore Baked Pears with Feta and Honey for a delightful dessert option.

For more information on the health benefits of butternut squash, visit Healthline.