Butternut Squash Green Chili: 6 Flavorful Recipes to Savor

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Butternut Squash Green Chili is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the sweetness of butternut squash with the zest of green chiles. This delightful meal melds tender chicken thighs, aromatic spices, and vibrant ingredients into a truly satisfying bowl. Perfect for chilly evenings, it offers not only warmth but also a host of nutritional benefits. Let’s dive into this flavorful recipe that will quickly become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Butternut Squash Green Chili

This butternut squash chili is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Here’s why you’ll adore it:

Rich in flavor with a perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
Nutrient-dense, packed with vitamins from squash and greens.
Easy to make, taking only about 40 minutes from start to finish.
Customizable for various diets, including vegetarian butternut squash chili.
Great for meal prep, it stores well for leftovers.
Provides a warm, cozy feeling, ideal for cold weather meals.

This dish is not just filling; it’s a wholesome blend of Mexican cuisine that satisfies both your hunger and your taste buds.

Ingredients for Butternut Squash Green Chili

Gather these items:

½ tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 large white onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, diced very small
¼ cup diced cilantro
1 (4 ounce) can mild green chiles or ¼ cup freshly roasted, seeded, and chopped hatch green chile
4-6 cups cubed butternut squash
1 ½ teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon oregano
4 cups (32 ounces) organic low sodium chicken broth
1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs
1 (15 ounce) can organic corn, drained (optional, omit if paleo)
1 small lime, juiced
½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
Freshly ground black pepper to taste

How to Make Butternut Squash Green Chili Step-by-Step

Step 1: Place a large dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat and add the olive or avocado oil. Once hot, add minced garlic, chopped onion, diced green bell pepper, and cilantro. Cook for a few minutes until the onion turns translucent and the mixture is fragrant.
Step 2: Immediately stir in the mild green chiles, cubed butternut squash, ground cumin, and oregano. Sauté everything together for a few minutes to toast the spices and slightly soften the squash.
Step 3: Pour in the low sodium chicken broth and add the boneless skinless chicken thighs. Add the drained organic corn if using. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and the juice of one small lime. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
Step 4: Bring the soup to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, cover the pot, reduce heat to low, and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through fully and the butternut squash to become tender. Check that the chicken is no longer pink inside.
Step 5: Using a slotted spoon, remove the cooked chicken thighs and transfer them to a cutting board. Shred the chicken finely with two forks, then return the shredded chicken back into the pot.
Step 6: Taste the soup and add more salt, pepper, or lime juice if desired. Serve hot, enjoying the warm and spicy flavors.

Pro Tips for the Best Butternut Squash Green Chili

Keep these in mind:

Perfect for chilly evenings.
This one-pot soup is packed with protein and vegetables.
Adjust seasoning to your taste; don’t hesitate to add more lime for brightness!
For a spicy butternut squash chili, consider adding jalapeños.

Best Ways to Serve Butternut Squash Green Chili

Here are some great serving suggestions:

Top with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for an extra kick.
Serve with tortilla chips for a delightful crunch.
Pair with a side salad for a balanced meal.

How to Store and Reheat Butternut Squash Green Chili

This chili stores wonderfully! After it cools, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through, ensuring it retains its flavor and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Butternut Squash Green Chili

What’s the secret to perfect Butternut Squash Green Chili?

The secret lies in the balance of flavors. Use fresh ingredients, and don’t skip the lime juice to enhance the overall taste. Incorporating different spices can also elevate this dish to a new level!

Can I make Butternut Squash Green Chili ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Butternut Squash Green Chili?

Avoid overcooking the butternut squash, as it can turn mushy. Also, adjusting the seasoning gradually will help you achieve the perfect flavor without overwhelming the dish.

Variations of Butternut Squash Green Chili You Can Try

Here are some creative twists:

For a gluten-free butternut squash chili, use certified gluten-free broth and seasonings.
Try adding black beans for a butternut squash chili with beans option.
Experiment with different types of squash for various textures and flavors.
Make it vegetarian by omitting chicken and adding more vegetables.

For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken or Pumpkin Sage Pasta. You can also learn about the health benefits of butternut squash to enhance your meals!