Spicy Butternut Squash Chicken Chili – Cozy & Healthy Fall Recipe

When the crisp air begins to sweep through the trees, nothing feels more inviting than a warm bowl of comfort food. That’s where Spicy Butternut Squash Chicken Chili comes in—a wholesome combination of tender chicken, sweet roasted squash, and rich spices, creating a perfect balance between coziness and bold flavor. This dish takes the earthy sweetness of Butternut Squash Soup With Chili and infuses it with the hearty depth of a classic chili, blending two seasonal favorites into one nourishing bowl. Among Chicken And Butternut Squash Recipes Healthy, this one stands out for being both warming and wonderfully satisfying.

A Cozy Bowl That Started in My Kitchen

It all began on a chilly October evening when the first frost touched the lawn and I found myself craving something deeply comforting. I had roasted Chicken Butternut Squash earlier that day, and the scent of caramelized edges filled my kitchen. With a few pantry staples and a pinch of creativity, I stirred together what would later become my signature Butternut Squash Soup With Chili—a dish that was hearty like stew yet soothing like soup.

As the squash softened and blended into the simmering broth, the aroma of garlic, onions, and chili powder wrapped around the kitchen like a warm blanket. The first spoonful was a revelation: spicy, sweet, smoky, and velvety all at once. It felt like capturing autumn in a bowl. That moment sparked a tradition that has carried on for years—each fall, when the nights grow longer, this comforting Chicken Butternut Squash chili becomes a weekly staple.

There’s something incredibly grounding about cooking with seasonal ingredients. Butternut squash, with its natural sweetness and colorful vibrancy, pairs beautifully with lean chicken—creating a meal that tastes indulgent yet feels nourishing. This cozy bowl reminds me of the rhythm of fall, the joy of gathering around the table, and the simple pleasure of good food made from the heart.

Spicy Butternut Squash Chicken Chili

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• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This hearty chili combines roasted butternut squash, lean chicken, beans, and warm spices for a cozy, healthy fall meal. It’s a one-pot recipe that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

4 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 large onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced

1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes

1 (15 oz) can white beans, drained and rinsed

3 cups low sodium chicken broth

2 tablespoons chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

salt and black pepper to taste

1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

fresh cilantro for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F and roast butternut squash tossed in olive oil, salt, and pepper for 25–30 minutes until tender.

2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat, sauté onion until translucent, then add garlic and cook one minute.

3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne, toasting spices for 30 seconds.

4. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until edges are no longer pink.

5. Pour in roasted squash, diced tomatoes, beans, and chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes.

6. Optional: puree a portion of the chili with an immersion blender for creaminess and stir back in.

7. Stir in lime juice, adjust seasoning, and let rest for five minutes before serving.

8. Serve topped with cilantro and optional avocado or Greek yogurt.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: main course
• Method: stovetop
• Cuisine: american

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6
• Sodium: 550
• Fat: 9
• Saturated Fat: 2
• Unsaturated Fat: 5
• Trans Fat: 0
• Carbohydrates: 28
• Fiber: 7
• Protein: 28
• Cholesterol: 70

Keywords: butternut squash chicken chili, spicy squash chili, fall comfort food, healthy chili recipe, one pot meal, lean protein chili

Why This Butternut Chicken Chili Stands Out from Traditional Chili Recipes

While traditional chili leans on beef and beans, this Butternut Chicken Chili changes the game with its lighter, brighter, and more nutrient-rich twist. The roasted squash provides a natural sweetness that balances the spices, while shredded chicken brings lean protein without heaviness. The layers of flavor—earthy cumin, smoky paprika, and a touch of heat—turn what could be an ordinary weeknight meal into something exceptional.

Among Chicken And Butternut Squash Recipes Healthy, this one shines because it’s as wholesome as it is satisfying. It offers that comforting chili richness while delivering vitamins A and C, lean protein, and fiber—all in one harmonious bowl. The contrast between the creamy squash base and the bold chili spices creates a depth of flavor that surprises and delights every time.

This recipe resonates with families who want something hearty yet health-conscious—perfect for busy nights, meal prep, or curling up by the fireplace. It’s proof that healthy comfort food doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor; instead, it celebrates it. Once you’ve tasted this Spicy Butternut Squash Chicken Chili, traditional chili might just take a back seat this season.

Essential Ingredients for Spicy Butternut Squash Chicken Chili

The magic of any great Butternut Squash Soup Chicken or Butternut Chicken Chili lies in the harmony of its ingredients. Each component contributes to the cozy, balanced flavor that makes this dish unforgettable.

Each ingredient in this Butternut Chicken Chili has a role to play, blending sweetness, protein, and warmth into one nourishing pot of flavor.

Kitchen Tools That Make the Process Easier

• Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot – ideal for browning chicken, sautéing vegetables, and simmering steadily.
• Sharp chef’s knife and cutting board – for efficient prep of your squash and aromatics.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – to stir and scrape up the delicious browned bits.
• Blender or immersion blender – optional, for a creamier texture.

Quick Prep Tips: Roast squash ahead to enhance its sweetness; buy pre-cubed squash for faster prep; and use shredded rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time. The process remains simple and approachable while yielding restaurant-quality comfort.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

Preparing and Cooking the Perfect Batch

1. Roast the squash. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Drizzle cubed squash with olive oil, season, and roast for 25–30 minutes until caramelized.
2. Sauté aromatics. In a Dutch oven, cook onion until translucent, then add garlic for one minute more.
3. Add the spices. Toast chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne to open their flavors.
4. Add chicken. Stir until lightly browned on the edges.
5. Combine and simmer. Add roasted squash, tomatoes, beans, and broth. Simmer 25–30 minutes, occasionally stirring.
6. Optional blend. Puree part of the chili for creaminess while keeping chunks for texture.
7. Adjust seasoning. Taste, season, and finish with a splash of lime juice for brightness.

The result is a thick, golden-orange chili, cozy and rich with smoky spice and velvety sweetness—a true embodiment of autumn comfort.

Tips for Serving, Storing, and Reheating

• Toppings: Add cilantro, avocado, or Greek yogurt for balance and contrast.
• Pairings: Enjoy with crusty bread, cornbread, or a crisp salad.
• Storage: Refrigerate up to four days or freeze up to three months; thaw and warm on the stove with a splash of broth.

For extra nourishment, stir in spinach or kale before serving, or swirl in coconut milk for a dairy-free richness. This Spicy Butternut Squash Chicken Chili offers cozy layers of spice and sweetness, ideal for chilly nights or make-ahead meals that keep comfort within reach.

Nutrition Breakdown and Health Benefits

Each bowl of Spicy Butternut Squash Chicken Chili packs a colorful medley of vitamins, protein, and fiber—the hallmark of Chicken And Butternut Squash Recipes Healthy. Tender chicken fuels lean protein needs, while butternut squash infuses the chili with nutrients that support immunity and bright flavor. Beans round out the fiber and texture, satisfying cravings without heaviness.

This flavorful one-pot meal delivers comfort with nutrient-dense benefits—perfect for cool-weather wellness or a weeknight craving for warmth.

FAQs and Final Thoughts

Can I make this chili vegetarian? Yes. Substitute the chicken with extra beans or lentils and use vegetable broth. It remains hearty and richly flavored.

Is it gluten-free and dairy-free? Absolutely. This Butternut Squash Soup With Chili is naturally free from gluten and dairy when certified ingredients are used.

How can I control the spice level? Start mild by reducing chili powder or skipping cayenne. Increase heat with chipotle or jalapeño if desired.

Can I use leftover cooked chicken? Shredded rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken works beautifully—stir it in near the end to warm through gently.

How long will it last? Store airtight up to four days refrigerated or three months frozen—quality and flavor stay rich with each reheat.

Final Thoughts: A bowl of Spicy Butternut Squash Chicken Chili is more than just a comforting meal—it’s a celebration of fall ingredients, simple techniques, and vibrant health. Among beloved Chicken And Butternut Squash Recipes Healthy for cozy evenings, this one turns ordinary moments into soul-warming memories. Grab your spoon and savor every bite—the season’s best flavors await.