Imagine a bowl of chili so incredibly satisfying that it transforms an ordinary weeknight meal into a culinary adventure. This Chipotle Turkey Chili with Butternut Squash and Swiss Chard isn't just another recipe—it's a flavor explosion that combines the smoky heat of chipotle, the hearty richness of ground turkey, and the unexpected sweetness of butternut squash. Whether you're a spice lover, a health-conscious foodie, or simply someone who craves a comforting meal with a gourmet twist, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup butternut squash, diced
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups swiss chard, chopped
- 2 tbsp chipotle in adobo sauce
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by dicing butternut squash, chopping onion, mincing garlic, and chopping swiss chard. Set aside.
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey and cook, breaking into crumbles, until browned and no longer pink (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the turkey. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until onions become translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in chipotle in adobo sauce, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to distribute spices evenly.
- Add diced butternut squash and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to slightly soften.
- Pour in diced tomatoes and drained black beans. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- In the last 5 minutes of cooking, fold in chopped swiss chard and let it wilt into the chili.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or chipotle sauce as needed.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Chili will thicken slightly as it cools.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or shredded cheese.
Tips
- Browning the turkey is crucial for developing deep flavor. Ensure your pan is hot and don't overcrowd to achieve a nice golden-brown color.
- Adjust the chipotle in adobo sauce according to your heat tolerance. Start with less and add more if you want extra kick.
- For a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes to reduce and concentrate the flavors.
- Swiss chard adds amazing nutrition and color, but you can substitute with spinach if needed.
- Make this chili ahead of time—it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
- For added texture, consider topping with crispy tortilla strips, diced avocado, or a sprinkle of queso fresco.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 65mg
