This Chicken Butternut Squash recipe is a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors, where tender chicken meets the creamy, nutty taste of roasted butternut squash. It’s a comforting, wholesome dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The vibrant colors and satisfying textures make it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate, ensuring everyone at the table will be asking for seconds.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will absolutely love this chicken butternut squash recipe for its incredible flavor profile and ease of preparation. The natural sweetness of the butternut squash beautifully complements the savory spices and juicy chicken, creating a harmonious dish that feels both indulgent and nutritious. It fits well into a healthy diet, packed with protein and vitamins, making it an ideal choice for those looking to maintain a balanced lifestyle without compromising on taste.
Tips and Tricks
- Choose fresh, firm butternut squash for the best flavor. If you’re short on time, pre-cut squash from the grocery store can be a great time saver.
- Marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking to enhance flavor and tenderness.
- For added depth, consider roasting the butternut squash with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Utilize a sharp chef’s knife to cut the squash and chicken, ensuring clean cuts and safety while prepping.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time; overcooking the chicken can lead to dryness, while undercooking the squash can result in a less enjoyable texture.
Make Ahead Tips
To make this recipe more convenient, you can prep the butternut squash and chicken a day in advance. Just cut the squash and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The chicken can be marinated overnight, allowing the flavors to develop. Both components will stay fresh for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply combine and roast!
Recipe Variations
- For a Mediterranean twist, add Kalamata olives and feta cheese before serving.
- You can swap chicken for turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
- Experiment with different spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or Italian seasoning to change the flavor profile.
- Instead of roasting, consider grilling the chicken and sautéing the squash for a lighter alternative.
How to Serve
Serve the chicken butternut squash dish hot from the oven on a large platter, garnished with fresh parsley or sage for a pop of color. Consider pairing it with a side of fluffy quinoa or a crisp green salad to balance the flavors. For added texture, sprinkle some toasted pumpkin seeds on top before serving.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a light-bodied white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors beautifully. Alternatively, a refreshing herbal iced tea can enhance the meal without overpowering it. As for side dishes, consider roasted Brussels sprouts or a warm crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. For dessert, a light fruit sorbet would provide a refreshing finish.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the chicken and butternut squash in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Equipment Needed
- A sharp chef’s knife for cutting the squash and chicken.
- A large baking sheet for roasting.
- Mixing bowls for marinating the chicken.
- Optional: A meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth for marinating instead of chicken broth. For a dairy-free version, simply omit any dairy-based garnishes. Make sure to check the labels of pre-packaged ingredients for allergens if you’re cooking for someone with food sensitivities.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the fall, you can add roasted apples or cranberries for a seasonal twist. In the spring, consider substituting the butternut squash with zucchini or asparagus for a lighter variation. Fresh herbs like basil or chives can also add brightness in the warmer months.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen butternut squash? Yes, frozen butternut squash can be used, but ensure it’s fully thawed and drained before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
- How long does it take to cook chicken? Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken; it typically takes 25-30 minutes at 400°F.
- What can I substitute for butternut squash? Sweet potatoes or acorn squash are excellent alternatives that offer similar flavors and textures.
How To Make chicken butternut squash recipe
Chicken Butternut Squash
This Chicken Butternut Squash recipe is a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors, where tender chicken meets the creamy, nutty taste of roasted butternut squash.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or sage for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and toss until evenly coated. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- While the chicken is marinating, prepare the butternut squash by peeling and cubing it into bite-sized pieces.
- Spread the butternut squash on a large baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
- Place the marinated chicken on the same baking sheet with the squash.
- Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the squash is tender and caramelized.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or sage, and enjoy your delicious chicken butternut squash dish!
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 185Total Fat 9gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 7gCholesterol 51mgSodium 122mgCarbohydrates 7gFiber 2gSugar 1gProtein 19g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This chicken butternut squash recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and nutrition. With its ease of preparation and endless possibilities for customization, it’s a dish you’ll return to time and time again. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to impress and nourish, leaving everyone satisfied and happy. Happy cooking!
