Butternut Squash Chai Chili

As the crisp autumn air settles in, nothing beats the comfort of a hearty bowl of Butternut Squash Chai Chili. I mean, chai and chili just sound good together, am I right? This dish combines savoury ground turkey, nutrient-packed butternut squash, and the fragrant warmth of chai spices. It’s the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and savoury that will nourish your body and soul. Plus, the crispy roasted chickpeas add a delightful crunch, taking it to the next level.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal prep idea or a delicious dish to share with friends and family, this fall-inspired chili is sure to hit the spot.

Butternut Squash Chai Chili Recipe

Dairy-free & gluten-free

Prep time: 20 minutes| Cook time: 40 minutes | Serves 6

Ingredients:

• 15 oz can chickpeas
• 1 tsp salt, divided
• 1 tsp pepper, divided
• 3 tbsp avocado oil, divided
• 1 large onion, diced
• ½ lb ground turkey
• 3 large cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 cup white mushrooms, chopped
• 2 celery ribs, chopped
• 3 cups butternut squash (or your fav squash), diced into 1cm cubes
• 15 oz can diced tomatoes and the juice
• 1.5 cup chicken broth 
• ¼ tsp cardamom
• ¼ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp cloves
• ⅛ tsp nutmeg 
• ⅛ tsp ginger
• 2 bay leafs

Directions:

1. Make Crispy chickpeas: Preheat the oven to 400F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, a silicon sheet, or grease with oil. Drain and rinse chickpeas then pat dry with a tea towel. The drier they are, the crispier they get. Toss chickpeas in 2 tbsp oil, ½ tsp salt and ½ tsp pepper. Spread out on the baking sheet and cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until golden.
2. In a large pot, heat 1 tbsp oil over medium-low heat, add the onions and cook until tender, roughly 5 minutes. Add the ground chicken and cook until no longer pink.
3. Add the garlic, mushrooms, celery, butternut squash, tomatoes, broth, spices, ½ tsp salt and pepper and bay leaves and stir well to combine. 
4. Bring mixture to a boil then lower the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, until all of the vegetables are tender. 
5. Remove the bay leaves and serve.

Health Benefits of Butternut Squash

Butternut squash is a true nutritional powerhouse, packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that benefit your body in multiple ways. It’s especially rich in vitamin A, with a single cup providing over 400% of your daily recommended intake! Vitamin A plays a key role in immune support, helping your body fight off infections, and is essential for maintaining good vision and healthy skin. Beyond its vitamin A content, butternut squash is also high in vitamin C, which further boosts immune function and promotes healthy skin by supporting collagen production.

One of the standout features of butternut squash is its high fibre content. Dietary fibre aids digestion, keeps you feeling fuller for longer, and helps regulate blood sugar levels, making it an excellent choice for those managing diabetes or looking to maintain steady energy throughout the day. Its versatility makes it perfect for both savoury and sweet dishes, and in this chili, it adds a comforting, earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the chai spices.

Health Benefits of Ground Turkey in this Butternut Squash Chai Chili

Ground turkey is an excellent source of lean protein, offering around 20 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, making ground turkey a perfect choice for those looking to build muscle, recover after exercise, or maintain a healthy weight. 

Ground turkey is also rich in B vitamins, particularly niacin (vitamin B3) and vitamin B6, which play vital roles in your overall health. Niacin is important for brain function, healthy skin, and digestion, while vitamin B6 supports energy production and helps produce neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine that regulate mood and mental health. These vitamins are also crucial for metabolism and converting the food you eat into usable energy, which means ground turkey helps you feel energized and satisfied after meals.

By incorporating ground turkey into this chili, you’re not only adding flavour but also ensuring a nutrient-dense, high-protein meal!

Health Benefits of Chai Spices

The chai spices in this recipe—cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and ginger—are not only flavorful but also packed with health benefits that enhance both the taste and the nutritional profile of your meals.

• Cinnamon is known for its ability to help regulate blood sugar levels by increasing insulin sensitivity, making it a fantastic spice for those with diabetes or insulin resistance. It also has powerful antioxidant properties, which help fight inflammation and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• Ginger has long been celebrated for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. It can help ease nausea, improve digestion, and reduce symptoms of indigestion. Its warming nature also boosts circulation, making it ideal for cooler weather.
• Cloves are rich in antioxidants that protect your cells from oxidative damage and promote immune health. They also contain compounds with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, supporting both oral health and overall well-being.
• Cardamom is a spice often used in Ayurvedic medicine to support digestive health. It can help alleviate bloating, gas, and other digestive issues. Additionally, cardamom has been shown to have a mild blood pressure-lowering effect, making it a heart-friendly addition to your meals.
• Nutmeg provides a cozy warmth to the dish, while its medicinal properties include aiding digestion, reducing inflammation, and promoting relaxation. Nutmeg is also known to have relaxing effects, making it a good choice for evening meals that can help you wind down.

Together, these spices not only add depth and complexity to this chili, but they also work synergistically to boost your health, enhance digestion, and keep inflammation in check. With every spoonful, you’re not just enjoying the rich flavours but also nourishing your body with the healing power of these natural spices.

Join My Lunch & Learn: Meal Planning 101

Ready to take explore more delicious meals like this Butternut Squash Chai Chili? Join me for Lunch & Learn Meal Planning 101! During this informative session, you’ll discover how meal planning can transform your health, save you money, and reduce stress around mealtime.

I’ll share practical strategies for creating balanced, nutrient-dense meals. I like to use seasonal ingredients like butternut squash, and we’ll discuss how to make the most of your time in the kitchen with batch cooking, prepping ahead, and smart grocery shopping. You’ll also learn about the health benefits of incorporating fresh, whole foods into your diet, and how meal planning can help you stay on track with your wellness goals without feeling overwhelmed.

Sign up now and start planning meals that are not only delicious but also good for your body, your budget, and your busy schedule!

Drop an email to info@jesselanewellness.com or visit my Corporate Wellness page to learn more.

More Comforting Fall Recipes to Warm You Up

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If you’re craving a soup that’s both vibrant and comforting, this Coconut Curry Corn Soup is just what you need. Packed with sweet corn, creamy coconut milk, and a hint of warm curry spice, this soup delivers a perfect balance of flavours. It’s a deliciously cozy dish that feels light yet satisfying, making it an ideal choice for cool fall evenings. Whether you’re serving it as a main or a side, this soup will brighten up your table and your taste buds!

Healthy Shepherd’s Pie

Healthy Shepherd’s Pie is the ultimate cozy meal, perfect for when you’re craving something hearty and wholesome. This version is made with a delicious mixture of tender lamb and veggies. It is topped with a buttery layer of mashed potatoes. It’s comfort food at its finest, but with simple, nutritious ingredients that make it a great choice for any night of the week. Whether you’re warming up in the winter or looking for a satisfying meal year-round, this dish has you covered!

Vegan Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Get ready to enjoy a bowl of Vegan Broccoli Cheddar Soup that’s creamy, comforting, and completely plant-based! This dairy-free version of the classic soup combines tender broccoli with a rich, velvety “cheddar” made from wholesome ingredients like cashews and nutritional yeast. It’s perfect for when you’re craving something cozy but still want to keep things light and nutritious. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly day or looking for a quick lunch option, this soup is guaranteed to hit the spot!

Creamy Lentil Curry

This Creamy Lentil Curry is the perfect warming meal, featuring some of the same delicious spices that make the Butternut Squash Chai Chili so irresistible. The hearty lentils are cooked in a fragrant coconut curry sauce. They are infused with chai-inspired spices like cinnamon, cumin, and a hint of ginger, creating a comforting, flavorful dish. With its rich, creamy texture and aromatic blend of spices, this curry is the ultimate cozy dinner when you’re craving something wholesome and satisfying. Pair it with rice or enjoy it on its own—either way, it’s a delicious lunch or dinner option!