Butternut Squash Green Chili: 6 Ways to Enjoy Comforting Flavor

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Butternut Squash Green Chili is a delightful dish that combines the sweet, nutty flavors of butternut squash with the warm, spicy notes of green chilies. This comforting recipe features tender chicken thighs simmered in a flavorful broth, making it perfect for chilly evenings. As the rich aroma fills your kitchen, you’ll feel the cozy embrace of this hearty meal. Let’s dive into how to create this deliciously satisfying soup!

Why You’ll Love This Butternut Squash Green Chili

This butternut squash chili offers numerous reasons to fall in love with it! First, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a healthy butternut squash chili option. Second, the creamy texture of the squash blends perfectly with the zesty green chilies, creating a balanced flavor. Third, it’s simple to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights. Fourth, it’s versatile; you can easily adjust the spice level by using different chiles. Fifth, this recipe is gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs. Lastly, it’s a delightful way to include more vegetables in your diet. Enjoy the warm embrace of this comforting soup!

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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 Perfect Butternut Squash Green Chili

Keep these in mind:

This soup is perfect for chilly evenings.
It is packed with protein and vegetables.
Adjust seasoning to your taste.
For a vegetarian butternut squash chili, substitute chicken with beans or lentils.
Feel free to add more vegetables such as carrots or zucchini for extra nutrition.

Best Ways to Serve Butternut Squash Green Chili

When serving your butternut squash green chili, consider these delightful options:

Top with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing finish.
Pair with crusty bread or tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch.
For added richness, serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.

How to Store and Reheat Butternut Squash Green Chili

To store your butternut squash chili, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in a microwave until heated through. This soup is also great for butternut squash green chili for meal prep and can be frozen for up to 3 months.

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. Ensure you season the broth well and allow the butternut squash to cook until tender, enhancing its sweetness and texture.

Can I make Butternut Squash Green Chili ahead of time?

Absolutely! This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just store in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve!

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

To avoid common pitfalls, be careful not to overcook the chicken; it should be tender but not dry. Also, adjust the spices gradually to prevent overpowering the dish.

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Variations of Butternut Squash Green Chili You Can Try

There are several delightful variations of this dish:

For a spicy butternut squash green chili, add jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
Create a butternut squash and green chili stew by adding more broth and a variety of vegetables.
Try a butternut squash chili variations with black beans or chickpeas for added protein.

For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe collection, or if you’re looking for a sweet treat, try our Salted Caramel Cookies. If you want to learn more about the health benefits of butternut squash, visit Healthline for detailed information.