As the evening settles in and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like the cozy embrace of one-pot meals. Enter my Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken—a dish that redefines comfort food with its nourishing blend of flavors. This recipe is not just about indulgence; it delivers a delightful twist by incorporating nutrient-rich butternut squash into the classic butter chicken. Not only is it quick to whip up, perfect for busy weeknights, but it also leaves you feeling satisfied and guilt-free. Plus, with gluten-free options using creamy coconut milk, everyone can enjoy this wholesome dinner. Curious how a handful of ingredients turns into a bowl of pure warmth? Let’s dive in! Why is this butternut squash buttery? Comforting, creamy goodness: This Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken envelops you in warmth with its luscious sauce, perfect for chilly nights. Nutritious twist: Butternut squash adds delightful sweetness and nutrition, making it a wholesome alternative to traditional recipes. Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it caters to those busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor or comfort. Versatile options: You can easily cater to vegetarians by swapping chicken for tofu or chickpeas, ensuring everyone at the table is happy. Crowd-pleaser: Rich, spiced flavors combined with creamy texture guarantee this dish will have friends and family coming back for seconds! Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Ingredients For the Chicken Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs – Tender and juicy; ideal for absorbing the rich flavors of this creamy butternut squash butter chicken. Vegetable Oil – High smoke point for sautéing; ensures onions and spices cook perfectly without burning. For the Sauce Onion – Sweetens the dish and forms the savory backbone of the sauce when sautéed; finely chop for even cooking. Garlic – Adds depth and complexity to the sauce; minced to release maximum flavor. Fresh Ginger – Provides a warm, zesty brightness; grated for smooth infusion into the sauce. Butternut Squash Puree – Contributes natural sweetness and creaminess; use homemade or store-bought for ease. Full-Fat Coconut Milk – Enriches the sauce with a creamy texture that’s dairy-free; heavy cream can be swapped for a richer taste. Tomato Puree – Provides acidity to balance the sweetness; essential for a well-rounded flavor profile. For the Spices Garam Masala – Offers a warm, complex flavor; adjust to suit your taste. Turmeric – Adds a vibrant color and earthy undertone; use according to preference. Cumin – Enhances the overall flavor; adjust according to taste. Coriander – Provides an aromatic warmth to the dish; use fresh for the best flavor. Chili Powder – Brings a gentle heat; modify based on spice tolerance. Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to personal taste. For Garnish and Serving Fresh Cilantro – Brightens the dish while adding color and freshness; chop finely for a beautiful garnish. Basmati Rice or Naan – Perfect for soaking up the creamy butter chicken sauce; choose your favorite for serving. Dive into this delightful recipe, and you’ll discover just how comforting homemade meals can be! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Step 1: Heat the Oil Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. This step lays the savory foundation for your Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken. Step 2: Add Aromatics Next, stir in 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the spices to release their enticing aromas. The combination of garlic and ginger will enhance the flavor profile of your dish beautifully. Step 3: Cook the Chicken Introduce 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken thighs to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally until it’s browned on all sides. Avoid stirring too frequently to develop a lovely crust, which will add depth to your Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken. Step 4: Season the Chicken Sprinkle in your spices: 2 teaspoons of garam masala, 1 teaspoon of turmeric, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of coriander, and ½ teaspoon of chili powder along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir for 1 to 2 minutes, ensuring the chicken is well-coated in the vibrant spices, enhancing the richness of the sauce. Step 5: Incorporate the Sauces Reduce the heat to low and add 1 cup of butternut squash puree, 1 can of full-fat coconut milk, and ½ cup of tomato puree to the skillet. Gently stir these ingredients together until thoroughly combined, creating a luscious base. This mixture adds creaminess to your Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken. Step 6: Simmer for Perfection Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 20 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it cooks; stir occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens to a silky consistency. The flavors will meld beautifully, creating a comforting aroma throughout your kitchen. Step 7: Finish with Butter Once the chicken is fully cooked, stir in 2 tablespoons of butter for a velvety finish. This final touch will elevate your sauce, giving it a rich, glossy texture. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed to perfect your Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken. Step 8: Garnish and Serve When ready to serve, chop fresh cilantro to sprinkle on top of your dish. Serve your warming Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken hot, alongside cooked basmati rice or warm naan to soak up the delicious sauce, making each bite a comforting delight. Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Variations Embrace the opportunity to make this recipe your own by adding your favorite flavors and dietary tweaks! Vegetarian Delight: Substitute chicken with cubed tofu or chickpeas for a hearty, plant-based meal that maintains all the comfort of the original dish. Gluten-Free Option: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a naturally gluten-free, creamy texture that everyone will delight in. Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper to the spice mix for those who crave an extra heat level in their curry. Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or curry leaves to elevate the aromatic profile of the dish, giving it a delightful twist. Creamy Tomato Variant: Blend some roasted red peppers into the sauce for an added smoky flavor and vibrant color that pairs beautifully with the butternut squash. Nutty Crunch: Toss in some slivered almonds or roasted cashews before serving for a nutty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. Tropical Twist: Mix in some pineapple chunks for a unique fruity flavor that perfectly balances the spiced creaminess of the dish. Coconut Flour Alternative: For a thicker sauce, whisk in a tablespoon of coconut flour, creating an even richer texture that hugs the tender chicken or tofu. If you’re exploring more variations, consider trying this with a side of my delicious Honey Pepper Chicken or the comforting Buffalo Chicken Mac. Each offers their unique twist on flavors that beautifully complement your creamy butternut squash butter chicken! Storage Tips for Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Fridge: Store leftover creamy butternut squash butter chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures the flavors meld beautifully while keeping it fresh. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of coconut milk or water if the sauce thickens too much. Stir occasionally for even heating. Meal Prep: Perfect for meal prep! Make ahead of time and enjoy a comforting, nutritious dinner ready to heat and serve. Expert Tips for Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Perfect Chicken: Ensure chicken is cooked through with a meat thermometer; the safe internal temperature is 165°F to avoid undercooked meat. Stir Gently: Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent the sauce from sticking to the pan and promote even cooking for your creamy butter chicken. Thicker Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer without a lid to reduce liquid and achieve that luscious creamy texture. Adjust Spices: Start with smaller amounts of spices like garam masala and chili powder, allowing you to customize the flavor profile of your Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken. Meal Prep Friendly: For a make-ahead meal, refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days as flavors deepen, enhancing the overall taste when reheated. Vegan Option: Substitute chicken with cubed tofu or chickpeas, using the same cooking method for a delicious vegetarian version. What to Serve with Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Imagine enjoying a cozy dinner spread that perfectly complements the richness of this vibrant dish. Basmati Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, it soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully, making each bite a delightful experience. A must-have for any butter chicken! Warm Naan Bread: Soft and pillowy, naan is perfect for scooping up the sauce; its slightly chewy texture provides a satisfying contrast to the dish. Steamed Broccoli: This green veggie adds a splash of color and a fresh crunch that balances the dish’s richness, elevating your meal’s nutrition. Quinoa Salad: A light and protein-packed choice, the nuttiness of quinoa pairs well with the spices in the butter chicken, keeping the meal wholesome without feeling heavy. Garden Salad: A refreshing mix of greens and seasonal veggies adds a crisp and bright touch, balancing the meal’s warmth and comfort. Coconut Mango Smoothie: For a delightful drink, this creamy, tropical smoothie brings sweetness that beautifully complements the spices in the butter chicken. Gulab Jamun: Finish off the meal with these rich, syrup-soaked dumplings, offering a sweet and indulgent contrast to the savory butter chicken. Make Ahead Options These Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the butternut squash puree and chop your onions, garlic, and ginger up to 24 hours in advance to save time on busy evenings. Additionally, you can marinate the chicken with the spices and refrigerate it for maximum flavor enhancement. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the oil in a pan, proceed to cook the marinated chicken, then add the prepped vegetables and sauces. Rest assured, this method maintains the dish’s integrity, yielding just as delicious a result as if made fresh, while allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal with minimal effort! Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs What type of butternut squash should I use? You can use either store-bought butternut squash puree or make your own by roasting or steaming peeled and cubed butternut squash until tender, then blending it until smooth. If buying, opt for brands with minimal additives for the best flavor and quality. How should I store leftovers? Store any leftover Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness and avoid moisture buildup. Can I freeze this dish? Absolutely! You can freeze the Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken for up to 2 months. Just let it cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and gently warm it on the stove, adding a little coconut milk or water if the sauce has thickened. What if my sauce is too thick? If you find that your sauce has thickened too much during cooking, simply stir in a splash of coconut milk or water while gently heating it back up. The moisture will help loosen the sauce without compromising the creamy texture. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? This dish is gluten-free if made with coconut milk. For those with nut allergies, be sure to check that your coconut milk is made in a facility without cross-contamination. For a vegetarian or vegan alternative, simply swap the chicken for cubed tofu or chickpeas and follow the same cooking instructions. What spices can I adjust for my taste? Feel free to modify the spice levels to your liking! Start with smaller amounts of garam masala and chili powder, taste-testing as you go. If you prefer it spicier, add more chili powder or even some freshly chopped chili peppers for a kick! Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken for Cozy Nights This Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken redefines comfort food, delivering a delightful twist with nutrient-rich butternut squash. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: IndianCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs Tender and juicy; ideal for absorbing the rich flavors.2 tablespoons vegetable oil High smoke point for sautéing.For the Sauce1 medium onion Finely chopped for even cooking.1 tablespoon minced garlic Adds depth and complexity.1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger Provides warm, zesty brightness.1 cup butternut squash puree Contributes natural sweetness.1 can full-fat coconut milk Enriches the sauce with a creamy texture.½ cup tomato puree Provides acidity to balance sweetness.For the Spices2 teaspoons garam masala Offers a warm, complex flavor.1 teaspoon turmeric Adds a vibrant color.1 teaspoon cumin Enhances overall flavor.1 teaspoon coriander Provides aromatic warmth.½ teaspoon chili powder Brings gentle heat.salt Essential for seasoning.pepper Essential for seasoning.For Garnish and Serving¼ cup fresh cilantro Chop finely for garnish.basmati rice or naan Perfect for soaking up the sauce. Equipment large skillet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsHeat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent.Stir in the minced garlic and grated fresh ginger. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes.Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs to the skillet and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally.Sprinkle in the spices: garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chili powder along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir for 1 to 2 minutes.Reduce heat to low; add butternut squash puree, coconut milk, and tomato puree. Stir until combined.Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.Once the chicken is fully cooked, stir in butter for a velvety finish. Adjust seasoning as needed.Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with basmati rice or naan. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg NotesEnsure chicken is cooked through with a meat thermometer; the safe internal temperature is 165°F. Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking. Perfect for meal prepping and have a comforting meal ready to heat and serve. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
