Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming dish that warms you from the inside out, you’ve found it! This Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken is a delightful combination of tender chicken and a rich, spiced sauce. The butternut squash adds a natural sweetness that balances perfectly with the spices, making every bite feel like a warm hug. It’s the kind of meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something comforting yet special.

I love making this dish because it’s simple to prepare and bursting with flavors that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it comes together in just under an hour, making it a fantastic option when time is tight but you still want to impress your loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in about 55 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and mild spices, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
• Make Ahead: The flavors only get better as they sit, so it’s great for meal prep or leftovers!
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients like butternut squash and coconut milk, this dish is both delicious and nourishing.
• Versatile: Enjoy it over basmati rice or with warm naan—either way, it’s a comforting meal!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make our Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken. Each one brings its own special flavor to the dish!

For the Chicken:

• 1 1/2 pounds (675g) boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup butternut squash puree (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
• 1/2 cup tomato puree
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

To Garnish:

• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
• Cooked basmati rice or naan, for serving

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: Feel free to use chicken breast instead of thighs if you prefer leaner meat.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or peas toward the end of cooking for extra nutrition and color.
• Change up the spices: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some cinnamon or cardamom for a different flavor twist.
• Make it vegan: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use plant-based butter for a vegan-friendly version.

How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Sautéing onions until they are soft brings out their natural sweetness, setting a lovely base for our sauce.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Ginger

Stir in the ginger and garlic, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. These aromatics add depth and flavor that makes your kitchen smell amazing!

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the pan and cook until they are browned on all sides, around 8-10 minutes. Browning the chicken not only enhances its flavor but also gives it that lovely golden color we all crave.

Step 4: Spice It Up

Stir in garam masala, turmeric, cumin powder, coriander powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is well-coated in those wonderful spices. This step infuses all those flavors directly into the chicken.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Reduce heat to low, then add butternut squash puree, coconut milk, and tomato puree. Stir well to combine everything into a creamy mixture. We’re building layers of flavor here that meld beautifully as they simmer together!

Step 6: Simmer Away

Allow the mixture to simmer for about 20 minutes while stirring occasionally. This helps thicken the sauce while ensuring that your chicken is thoroughly cooked through.

Step 7: Make It Creamy

In the final few minutes of cooking, stir in butter until melted. This creates a luxurious creamy texture that makes this dish irresistible.

Step 8: Final Seasoning

Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired. A quick taste test ensures every bite is just right before garnishing with fresh cilantro leaves.

Step 9: Serve Hot

Serve hot with basmati rice or naan on the side. Enjoy this comforting meal with family or friends—it’s sure to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken

Creating the perfect creamy butternut squash butter chicken is all about balancing flavors and textures, and these tips will help you achieve that delicious harmony!

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices can make a significant difference in flavor. They release more essential oils and aromas, elevating your dish from good to fantastic.
• Don’t rush the browning: Take your time when browning the chicken. This step not only adds color but also deepens the flavor of your dish, making it richer and more satisfying.
• Simmer gently: Cooking the sauce over low heat allows the flavors to meld beautifully. A gentle simmer ensures that the chicken becomes tender without drying out.
• Adjust sweetness: If you find the sauce too sweet due to the butternut squash, balance it with a squeeze of lemon or lime juice. This acidity can brighten up the dish and enhance its overall taste.
• Make it ahead: This recipe tastes even better the next day! Consider making it in advance and storing it in the fridge overnight to allow all those lovely flavors to develop fully.

How to Serve Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken

Serving this creamy butternut squash butter chicken is not just about taste; it’s also about presentation. Here are some delightful ideas to make your meal memorable!

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro leaves: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness, enhancing both the visual appeal and flavor profile.
• Chili flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of chili flakes on top can add a spicy kick that complements the creaminess of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Basmati rice: Fluffy basmati rice is a classic pairing that soaks up all that delicious sauce, making each bite wonderfully satisfying.
• Naan bread: Warm naan bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce. It adds a delightful texture contrast while being an excellent vessel for scooping up every last bit.
• Roasted vegetables: A side of roasted seasonal vegetables brings added nutrition and vibrant colors to your plate. Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the buttery flavors of the chicken.
• Cucumber salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with yogurt dressing offers a cool contrast to the rich curry. It helps cleanse your palate between bites, enhancing your overall dining experience.

Now you’re ready to impress family and friends with this comforting yet exotic dish! Enjoy every bite of your creamy butternut squash butter chicken!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken is a fantastic option for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, ensuring you have delicious, healthy meals ready to go throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool down before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months for best flavor.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of coconut milk if it seems too thick.
• Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to heat evenly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I make Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken dairy-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is already dairy-free thanks to the use of coconut milk. Just ensure any additional ingredients you choose are also dairy-free.

How can I customize my Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken?

You can add your favorite vegetables like spinach or bell peppers during cooking. Adjust spices according to your taste preference; more chili powder will give it a kick!

What sides pair well with Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with basmati rice or naan. You can also serve it with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts if you prefer. Just be mindful that they may cook faster than thighs, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This creamy butternut squash butter chicken stores well and freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl! With its delightful blend of spices and creamy goodness, it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to share your experiences or any personal twists you add—happy cooking!