Irresistible Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Recipe

The aroma of creamy butternut squash butter chicken wafts through the kitchen, mingling with spices that dance on your taste buds. Imagine a velvety sauce enveloping tender chicken pieces, creating a comforting embrace that feels like a warm hug after a long day.

This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, and you gather around the table with friends and family, laughter filling the air as you serve up bowls of this rich, delicious dish. The anticipation builds as everyone digs in, their faces lighting up at the first bite.

Last Thanksgiving, I introduced this dish to my family as an alternative to our usual turkey. The laughter was contagious as my uncle tried to figure out if he was eating butter chicken or pumpkin pie!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; adjust based on your crowd size for optimal satisfaction.

• Butternut Squash: Choose fresh ones that feel heavy for their size—your taste buds will thank you later.

• Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk adds creaminess and balances spices beautifully—don’t skimp on this!

• Fresh Ginger: Grate it fresh for a zesty kick; dried ginger just doesn’t have the same zing.

• Garlic Cloves: Use about three cloves for maximum flavor impact—because who doesn’t love garlic?

• Spices (Cumin, Coriander, Turmeric): These spices create a heavenly aroma and deepen the flavor profile; use them liberally!

• Lime Juice: A splash adds brightness and cuts through the creaminess; it’s like sunshine in a bowl!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken

First things first: let’s get cooking!

Prepare the Chicken: Start by cutting your boneless chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season generously with salt and pepper while imagining how tasty it’ll be.

Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large pot over medium heat, melt some oil. Add chopped onions and minced garlic until they become translucent and fragrant—it’s time to set the mood!

Add Spices: Toss in cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Stir vigorously until the spices bloom—a process that releases their robust flavors into your kitchen air.

Add Butternut Squash: Stir in diced butternut squash along with coconut milk. Let it simmer gently until the squash softens—about 15 minutes or so. You’ll see everything transform into creamy goodness.

Add Chicken: Incorporate your seasoned chicken pieces into the pot. Cook until they are no longer pink inside and coated with that luscious sauce—approximately 10-12 minutes.

Add Lime Juice: Finally, squeeze in fresh lime juice right before serving; it brightens all those dreamy flavors wonderfully!

Now you’re ready to dig into this spectacularly cozy dish that brings warmth to any occasion!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to lock in flavor, then simmer with butternut squash and spices until tender. Finish with cream for richness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken for tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist. Add spinach or kale for extra nutrients and color.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to maintain creaminess.

This recipe was born after a chilly evening when my friends gathered around for comfort food. Their smiles told me I had created something special—a warm hug in a bowl!

FAQ

Can I make creamy butternut squash butter chicken ahead of time?

Yes, preparing it a day in advance allows flavors to meld beautifully.

What can I serve with creamy butternut squash butter chicken?

Pair it with rice, naan, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Does this recipe freeze well?

Absolutely! Just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of creamy butternut squash butter chicken, a delightful fusion of tender chicken and velvety butternut squash enveloped in a rich, aromatic sauce. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests at your next gathering. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

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Ingredients

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• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 2 cups diced butternut squash
• 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
• 2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tsp cumin
• 2 tsp coriander
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat, then sauté chopped onions until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Stir in cumin, coriander, and turmeric; cook for about 1 minute.
4. Add diced butternut squash and coconut milk; simmer gently for about 15 minutes until the squash is tender.
5. Incorporate the seasoned chicken into the pot; cook for 10-12 minutes or until fully cooked.
6. Squeeze fresh lime juice just before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 75mg