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Easy Chicken Butternut Chili Recipe

A delightful combination of sweet butternut squash and savory spices, this Chicken Butternut Chili is a kid-approved favorite that's budget-friendly and quick to prepare.

By Marlene Dufour ·FEB 6, 2026 ·Updated SEP 25, 2026 ·Be the first to rate
Easy Chicken Butternut Chili Recipe
01Why this one

Why You’ll Love This Dish

Chicken Butternut Chili is a delightful combination of flavors that not only warms the soul but also nourishes the body. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick meal during a busy weeknight. What makes it exceptional is its balance of sweet butternut squash with savory spices, making it a kid-approved favorite. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and can be made in less than an hour.

02Before you cook

The Cooking Process Explained

Making Chicken Butternut Chili is a straightforward process that anyone can appreciate. Start by preparing your ingredients, and then you’ll be ready to cook up a storm. This dish comes together seamlessly in a rich sauce, where every ingredient plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall taste.

Key Ingredients

Gather these items before you start cooking:

  • 1 tablespoon canola oil
  • 2 medium carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery ribs, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cups cubed peeled butternut squash
  • 1 medium tomato, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 envelope reduced sodium chili seasoning mix
  • 2 cups chicken stock
  • 1 cup cubed cooked chicken breast
  • Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

You might also find that incorporating different vegetables can elevate the dish even further, as suggested in Cajun White Chicken Chili.

Directions to Follow

  1. In a large saucepan, heat the canola oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped carrots, celery, and onion, sautéing them until they become tender, about 6 to 8 minutes.
  3. Stir in the cubed butternut squash, chopped tomato, tomato paste, the chili seasoning mix, and chicken stock. Bring this mixture to a boil.
  4. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer, covered, until the butternut squash is tender, which should take about 20 to 25 minutes.
  5. Finally, add the cubed cooked chicken, stirring to heat through. Serve with a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro.
03At the stove
Chicken Butternut Chili
The recipe

Chicken Butternut Chili

Rate it ·Dinner · Main Course · American
Prep
15 MIN
Cook
30 MIN
Total
45 MIN
Serves
4

01Ingredients

4 servings

Main Ingredients

02Method

  1. Cooking

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03Recipe notes

  1. 01For an even richer flavor, try roasting your butternut squash before adding it to the chili. You can also experiment with different spices or add beans for an added protein boost. This chili can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
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04After dinner

Best Ways to Enjoy It

This Chicken Butternut Chili is best enjoyed hot and can be paired with various sides. For a complete meal, consider serving it with cornbread or a fresh garden salad. You can also top it with shredded cheese, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.

How to Store & Freeze

To keep your Chicken Butternut Chili fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will last for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it later, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Always remember to label your containers with the date, so you know when to use them.

Recipe Variations

Get creative with this recipe by experimenting with different spices or adding beans for an added protein boost. You can also swap the chicken for shredded turkey or make it vegetarian by omitting the meat and using vegetable stock instead.

Common Questions

Can I make this chili in advance?

Absolutely! This chili tastes even better the next day, so feel free to prepare it ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and reheat whenever you’re ready to enjoy.

Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Yes, frozen butternut squash works perfectly in this recipe, making it even more convenient.

What can I substitute for onions?

If you’re not a fan of onions, you can replace them with leeks or simply omit them.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chicken Butternut Chili is a versatile and comforting meal that’s perfect for any time of year. For more ideas, check out Butternut White Chicken Chili and my White Chicken Chili. Both offer unique flavors that make them worth a try!

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