Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash Recipe

Introduction

Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash is a delicious and effortless meal that combines sweet and tangy flavors with hearty vegetables. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a comforting dish waiting for you at dinner time. The slow cooker does all the work, delivering tender chicken and perfectly cooked squash every time.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
2. Step 2: Layer the cubed butternut squash on top of the chicken.
3. Step 3: In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and chicken broth.
4. Step 4: Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken and squash in the crockpot.
5. Step 5: Drizzle olive oil on top to add moisture and flavor.
6. Step 6: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
7. Step 7: Check that the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) using a meat thermometer.
8. Step 8: Shred the chicken directly in the crockpot or serve the breasts whole with the squash and sauce.
9. Step 9: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh butternut squash for the best flavor and texture.
• For extra spice, add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
• Try substituting chicken thighs or turkey breasts for a different protein option.
• Incorporate additional vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for more variety.
• Serve over brown rice, quinoa, or whole-grain couscous to boost fiber and make it a complete meal.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Reheat thoroughly before serving, either in the microwave or on the stovetop.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Yes, frozen butternut squash can be used. Just keep in mind it may require a slightly shorter cooking time since it is already precut and partially cooked.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is safe to eat and perfectly tender.

Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash Recipe

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Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash is a flavorful and easy-to-make slow cooker meal that combines tender chicken breasts with sweet butternut squash, all infused with a tangy maple Dijon sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this recipe requires minimal prep and uses the crockpot to meld the rich flavors while keeping the chicken juicy and tender.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

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Chicken and Vegetables

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups butternut squash, cubed

Sauce

• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chicken broth

Other

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare Chicken: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot, ensuring they’re evenly spread for consistent cooking.
2. Add Butternut Squash: Layer the cubed butternut squash on top of the chicken breasts to promote even cooking and flavor absorption.
3. Mix Sauce Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and chicken broth until smooth and well combined.
4. Pour Sauce Over: Evenly drizzle the prepared sauce mixture over the chicken and butternut squash to coat ingredients thoroughly.
5. Add Olive Oil: Drizzle olive oil over the top to add moisture and richness to the dish as it cooks.
6. Cook on Low: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat setting for 4 to 6 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
7. Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
8. Shred or Serve Whole: Choose to shred the chicken right in the crockpot for a shredded texture or serve the breasts whole alongside the butternut squash and sauce.
9. Garnish: Optionally sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top before serving for color and a fresh herbal note.

Notes

• Use fresh butternut squash and quality chicken for best flavor.
• Adjust seasonings and herbs to your taste preference, adding more thyme or pepper if desired.
• Pair the dish with whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, or couscous to add fiber and make a complete meal.
• Frozen butternut squash can be used but may require less cooking time.
• Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days refrigerated or freeze for up to 3 months.
• For variation, add other root vegetables, spice with red pepper flakes, or substitute chicken thighs or turkey.

Keywords: crockpot chicken, maple Dijon chicken, butternut squash recipe, slow cooker chicken, easy chicken dinner, maple syrup chicken, slow cooked meals