Creamy Butternut Squash Chicken Chili is a comforting and flavorful dish that warms your heart and fills your belly. This delightful chili combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash with tender chicken and creamy cannellini beans, creating a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Ideal for chilly evenings, this dish not only satisfies your taste buds but is also a nutritious option, making it a great choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Why We Love This Creamy Butternut Squash Chicken Chili Recipe
One of the main reasons you’ll fall in love with this Creamy Butternut Squash Chicken Chili is its versatility. Whether you’re looking to whip up a quick weeknight meal or want to impress guests, this recipe checks all the boxes. The incorporation of butternut squash brings a unique twist, enriching the chili with its creamy texture and slightly sweet flavor. Additionally, the spices used in the recipe provide just the right level of warmth without overwhelming your palate. Plus, it’s easy to make! You can prepare this dish in one pot, minimizing cleanup and allowing you to enjoy your meal faster.
Ingredients about Creamy Butternut Squash Chicken Chili
To create your delicious Creamy Butternut Squash Chicken Chili, gather the following ingredients:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 1 butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sour cream (for serving)
- Fresh herbs (for garnish)
- Tortilla chips (for topping)
How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Chicken Chili Directions
Making Creamy Butternut Squash Chicken Chili is straightforward. Start by gathering your ingredients and prepping the kitchen. First, grab a large pot and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until they are softened and fragrant, about 3 to 5 minutes. This will form the aromatic base for your chili.
Next, introduce the diced butternut squash and cubed chicken into the pot. Stir everything together, allowing the chicken to sear slightly while the squash begins to soften, which should take about 5 minutes. The combination of these ingredients will create a lovely color and flavor profile.
Once the chicken is lightly browned, pour in the chicken broth. Don’t forget to add the drained and rinsed cannellini beans, along with the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. These spices will enhance the dish’s depth and warmth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Bring the mixture to a boil. After reaching a boil, reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer for 25 to 30 minutes. This gentle simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully while the butternut squash becomes tender. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
When the butternut squash is soft, it’s time to stir in the sour cream. This ingredient will add creaminess and a slight tang to your chili. Mix it thoroughly until well incorporated, and then taste it to adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Finally, your Creamy Butternut Squash Chicken Chili is ready to serve! Ladle it into bowls, top it off with fresh herbs and a handful of crunchy tortilla chips for added texture and flavor. Enjoy the comforting warmth of this delightful dish!
How to Serve Creamy Butternut Squash Chicken Chili
Serving your Creamy Butternut Squash Chicken Chili is where you can get really creative. Start by choosing your favorite bowls. A rustic-style bowl adds a homely touch, perfect for this comforting dish. Ladle generous portions of chili into each bowl. The vibrant colors of the butternut squash and garnishes should be visually appealing.
Garnish each bowl with a dollop of sour cream. This not only adds flavor but also creates a beautiful contrast against the bright orange chili. Sprinkle fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, on top for an inviting finish. If you want some crunch, don’t hesitate to add a handful of tortilla chips either on top or served on the side.
Feel free to present your chili with sides like a fresh green salad or warm corn bread, enhancing your meal’s overall experience. Enjoy this dish both visually and with every satisfying bite!
Expert Tips: Creamy Butternut Squash Chicken Chili
To ensure your Creamy Butternut Squash Chicken Chili turns out great every time, consider these expert tips:
- Choosing the Right Squash: When selecting a butternut squash, look for one that feels heavy for its size and has a hard skin. This indicates freshness.
- Cutting the Squash: Use a sharp knife to carefully peel and dice the butternut squash. It can be tough to handle, so ensure your knife is sharp to make the process easier.
- Using Leftover Chicken: A great way to save time is to use leftover rotisserie chicken. Just shred the cooked chicken and add it to the pot during the last minutes of cooking to heat through.
- Adjusting Seasoning: Taste your chili before serving. Depending on your taste preference, you may want to add more spices or adjust the salt and pepper levels.
- Thickening the Chili: If you prefer a thicker chili, you can use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the butternut squash directly in the pot, which will create a creamy texture while still maintaining some chunky bites.
These tips will help you achieve the best results and make your chili experience even more enjoyable!
How to Store Creamy Butternut Squash Chicken Chili
Proper storage will allow you to enjoy your Creamy Butternut Squash Chicken Chili even later. Once the chili has cooled down, transfer it to an airtight container. Make sure to store it in the refrigerator if you plan to eat it within a few days. It will remain fresh for up to 4 to 5 days.
If you’d like to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just ensure that the chili is cooled completely before portioning it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Label the containers with the date, and it’s best to enjoy the frozen chili within three months for optimal flavor.
To reheat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the microwave. When reheating on the stovetop, do it over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure it heats evenly. Add a splash of chicken broth if the chili seems too thick after being frozen.
Variation of Creamy Butternut Squash Chicken Chili
While the base recipe for Creamy Butternut Squash Chicken Chili is delicious, there are plenty of ways you can customize it to suit your taste preferences. Here are some variations you might enjoy:
- Add More Vegetables: Consider adding more veggies such as bell peppers, corn, or spinach for extra nutrients and texture. Simply sauté them with the onion and garlic before adding the other ingredients.
- Spice Level: If you crave a bit more heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a few shakes of hot sauce to the chili. Adjust the spices to your desired level of warmth.
- Herb Variation: Instead of the fresh herbs listed, experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
- Swap the Chicken: For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chicken with chickpeas or cooked lentils which will still provide a hearty feel to your chili.
- Cream Variations: Change up the creaminess by using Greek yogurt or a non-dairy substitute for the sour cream. This will still provide that luxurious feel while catering to different dietary preferences.
Feel free to experiment and make this dish your own!
FAQ
What makes Creamy Butternut Squash Chicken Chili special? The combination of creamy butternut squash and tender chicken provides a uniquely comforting flavor. The chili is nutritious, warming, and perfect for any occasion.
Can I make Creamy Butternut Squash Chicken Chili ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare this chili in advance. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to enjoy it.
How do I make Creamy Butternut Squash Chicken Chili spicier? To spice up your chili, add jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or extra chili powder. Start with a small amount, taste, and adjust according to your heat preference.
Can I freeze Creamy Butternut Squash Chicken Chili? Absolutely! This chili freezes well. Be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’s best enjoyed within three months.
What can I serve with Creamy Butternut Squash Chicken Chili? This chili pairs well with warm, crusty bread, tortilla chips, or a fresh side salad. Enjoy it with your favorite toppings like sour cream and fresh herbs for added flavor.
Will this recipe work with other types of beans? Yes, you can substitute cannellini beans with kidney beans or black beans if you prefer. Each type will impart a slightly different flavor and texture, but all will be delicious!
Creamy Butternut Squash Chicken Chili
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 large butternut squash, peeled and diced Choose a squash that feels heavy for its size.
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed Use fresh or leftover rotisserie chicken.
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed You can substitute with other beans if desired.
- 1 medium onion, chopped Provides aromatic flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the overall flavor.
- 4 cups chicken broth Low-sodium preferred for better control over salt.
- 1 tsp cumin Adds warmth to the chili.
- 1 tsp chili powder Adjust according to your spice preference.
- to taste Salt and pepper Season according to your taste.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather your ingredients and prep the kitchen.
- Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add the diced butternut squash and cubed chicken into the pot, stirring everything together for about 5 minutes.
Cooking
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the drained and rinsed cannellini beans, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let simmer for 25 to 30 minutes.
- Once the butternut squash is soft, stir in sour cream until well incorporated. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Serving
- Ladle chili into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs and tortilla chips, and enjoy.
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