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Fall Harvest Ground Turkey Chili Recipe

Fall Harvest Ground Turkey Chili Recipe

5.1 from 22 reviews

This Fall Harvest Ground Turkey Chili is a hearty and healthy dish perfect for cozy autumn evenings. Featuring lean ground turkey, nutrient-packed butternut squash, and a blend of warm spices, this chili is both flavorful and comforting. It’s a nourishing meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with protein and fiber, making it ideal for a nutritious dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein & Beans

  • 1 lb lean ground turkey
  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced

Spices & Seasonings

  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Liquids

  • 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cups chicken broth

Garnish

  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  2. Cook Turkey: Add the lean ground turkey to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for 6–7 minutes until the turkey is thoroughly browned. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  3. Add Vegetables: Stir in the diced butternut squash and bell pepper. Cook for another 4–5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to begin softening.
  4. Incorporate Spices: Add chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and ground cinnamon. Stir well to evenly coat all ingredients with the spices, enhancing the chili’s warm, complex flavor profile.
  5. Add Liquids and Beans: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Then add the drained and rinsed black beans and kidney beans. Stir to combine all components thoroughly.
  6. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let the chili simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the butternut squash is tender and the chili has thickened to your liking.
  7. Adjust Seasoning & Garnish: Taste the chili and adjust seasonings with extra salt or spices if desired. Serve hot garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, replace ground turkey with an additional can of beans and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
  • Add jalapeños or cayenne pepper if you prefer a spicier chili.
  • This chili freezes well and can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: Fall Harvest Ground Turkey Chili, Healthy Turkey Chili, Butternut Squash Chili, Gluten Free Chili