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Easy One Pot Turkey and Butternut Squash Chili

turkey and butternut squash chili - featured image

A hearty, healthy chili made in one pot with lean ground turkey, butternut squash, beans, and smoky spices. Ready in about 45 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners and meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced (about 1 ½ cups)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 ½ pounds ground turkey (93% lean)
  • 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed (½-inch pieces)
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 can (15 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheddar, sour cream or Greek yogurt, sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Heat the oil over medium-high heat in a Dutch oven. Add the diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until translucent.
  2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the ground turkey. Break it apart and cook until no longer pink, about 6-7 minutes.
  4. Add the butternut squash and red bell pepper. Stir and cook for 2 minutes.
  5. Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for 1 minute.
  6. Pour in the fire-roasted tomatoes (with juices), drained beans, and chicken broth. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
  7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until squash is tender.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add a squeeze of lime for brightness if desired.
  9. Let rest off the heat for 5 minutes before serving. Serve with desired toppings.

Notes

For a thicker chili, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes. For a spicier version, add a diced jalapeño with the onion or stir in chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. This chili freezes well for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey chili, butternut squash chili, one pot chili, healthy chili, easy chili recipe, fall chili, meal prep chili