Jump to Recipe Print RecipeOn a chilly evening, nothing beats the warmth of a homemade dinner that wraps you in comfort. My Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken is a delightful twist on a classic that transforms tender chicken into a cozy bowl of creamy goodness. Infused with sweet butternut squash and vibrant spices, this dish is not only a healthy recipe but also an easy dinner solution for busy weeknights. You can have it on the table in no time, making it the perfect antidote to takeout fatigue. Plus, it’s versatile enough to cater to dietary preferences with a dairy-free option available. What’s your favorite way to elevate a weeknight meal? Why is Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Unique? Comforting, this dish combines two beloved flavors—creamy butter chicken and sweet butternut squash, creating a cozy dinner experience. Ease of preparation is key; it’s a straightforward recipe even for busy evenings. Health-conscious eaters will love that it’s a nutrient-packed meal with options for dairy-free variations. Flavor explosion comes from a delightful mix of warming spices that elevate your dining experience. Versatile enough for guests or a family dinner, this dish appeals to all ages, making it a must-try! For even more delicious ideas, check out my Butter Chicken Comfort or Bbq Chicken Mac for a taste adventure! Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Ingredients For the Chicken • Boneless skinless chicken thighs – Tender and juicy, ideal for absorbing flavors; substitute with chicken breasts for a leaner option, though it may be drier. For the Sauce • Vegetable oil – A neutral-flavored fat for cooking with a high smoke point. • Medium onion – Adds sweetness and a savory base to the dish. • Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Enhances depth and complexity in the sauce. • Fresh ginger (1 tablespoon, grated) – Infuses warmth and bright flavor into the curry. • Butternut squash puree (1 cup) – Provides natural sweetness and creaminess; can use homemade or store-bought. • Full-fat coconut milk (1 cup) – A rich, creamy texture alternative to heavy cream, perfect for making the dish dairy-free. • Tomato puree (1/2 cup) – Adds acidity and tang that balances the sweetness of the squash. • Butter (2 tablespoons) – Enriches the sauce, giving it a luscious shine and creaminess. For Seasoning • Spices (garam masala – 2 tsp, turmeric – 1 tsp, cumin powder – 1 tsp, coriander powder – 1 tsp, chili powder – 1/2 tsp) – Create a depth of flavor and warmth that truly elevates your butternut squash butter chicken. • Salt and pepper – Essential for enhancing the flavors throughout the dish. For Garnishing & Serving • Fresh cilantro leaves – Adds brightness and color, making the dish visually appealing. • Basmati rice or naan – Ideal for serving; perfect for soaking up that creamy, spiced sauce. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add one chopped medium onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Follow with 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger, cooking for an additional 1–2 minutes until the mixture is aromatic, creating a welcoming base for your creamy butternut squash butter chicken. Step 2: Brown the Chicken Introduce 1.5 pounds of boneless skinless chicken thighs to the pan. Increase the heat to medium-high and brown the chicken pieces for about 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally until they develop a golden crust on all sides. This step is crucial for enhancing the flavors of the butternut squash butter chicken as it infuses the dish with depth and richness. Step 3: Add the Spices Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of garam masala, 1 teaspoon each of turmeric, cumin, and coriander powder, along with 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir the spices in for 1–2 minutes until they coat the chicken evenly and become fragrant, setting the stage for the creamy sauce that will follow. Step 4: Incorporate the Sauces Reduce the heat to low and carefully stir in 1 cup of butternut squash puree, 1 cup of full-fat coconut milk, and 1/2 cup of tomato puree. Mix well until everything is combined, creating a beautiful, vibrant sauce that envelops the chicken. Allow the natural sweetness from the squash to shine through in your butternut squash butter chicken. Step 5: Let it Simmer Cover the pan and let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the sauce thickens evenly and the chicken cooks thoroughly. Look for the sauce to become velvety and the chicken to be tender, signaling that your creamy butternut squash butter chicken is nearly ready. Step 6: Finish with Butter In the last few minutes of cooking, stir in 2 tablespoons of butter until melted, enriching the sauce for an irresistible creaminess. Taste your butternut squash butter chicken and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper as desired to enhance the overall flavor profile. Step 7: Garnish and Serve Once cooked to perfection, remove the pan from heat. Garnish your creamy butternut squash butter chicken with fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of color and freshness. Serve this comforting dish over steaming basmati rice or with warm naan to soak up every delightful drop of the sauce, making sure each bite is a comforting experience! Make Ahead Options These Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken preparations are fantastic for busy weeknights! You can chop the onions, garlic, and ginger up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can measure and mix the spices ahead of time for seamless cooking. For optimal quality, cook the entire dish up to 3 days in advance; simply cool and refrigerate it once finished. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the chicken on the stove, adding a splash of coconut milk to maintain that creamy texture. This way, you’ll have delicious, home-cooked comfort with minimal effort! Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Variations Feel free to play with this recipe and make it your own—there’s a world of flavors just waiting to be explored! Chickpea Option: Replace chicken thighs with 1 can of chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian twist. They soak up the spices beautifully! Dairy-Free Delight: Keep the dish creamy by using coconut cream instead of heavy cream. It adds richness without dairy. Roasted Veggies: Toss in some roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to enhance texture and nutrient content, adding a colorful crunch. Heat It Up: For spice lovers, add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix for an extra kick. Your taste buds will thank you! Thai Twist: Swap coconut milk for a flavored coconut curry blend for an entirely new flavor profile that’s both aromatic and satisfying. Fruit Fusion: Stir in diced apples or pears during the simmering stage for a sweet and savory combination that will surprise your palate. Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted almonds or cashews just before serving for a delightful crunchy texture. It’s a delicious contrast to the creamy sauce! Grain Variations: Serve over quinoa instead of basmati rice for a nutty flavor and added protein, making it a wholesome meal option. For more culinary inspiration, check out my Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine or try the vibrant Garlic Butter Steak for a different take on comfort cooking! Tips for the Best Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Brown the Chicken: Ensure the chicken pieces have a golden crust before adding spices; this locks in flavor and enhances the overall taste of your butternut squash butter chicken. Stir Frequently: Stir the sauce occasionally while it simmers to prevent it from sticking to the pan; this helps achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. Taste as You Go: Don’t hesitate to adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process; taste your butternut squash butter chicken to ensure the perfect balance of flavors. Thicken the Sauce: If your sauce seems too thin, allow it to simmer a little longer uncovered; this will help it achieve that luxuriously creamy texture. Garnish with Freshness: Add freshly chopped cilantro right before serving to enhance both flavor and presentation, making your dish visually appealing. What to Serve with Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Indulge in a cozy dining experience that pairs perfectly with warming side dishes and drinks, enhancing every bite. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky and buttery, these potatoes soak up the savory sauce, adding a comforting touch to your meal. Basmati Rice: The fluffy, aromatic grains are ideal for soaking up the creamy sauce and provide a delicate balance of flavors. Pairing rice with the butter chicken makes for a classic combination that satisfies every craving. Garlic Naan: Soft and pillowy, naan complements the dish beautifully, perfect for scooping up those rich, spiced flavors. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies, roasted to perfection, adds a healthy crunch and earthy tones to the meal. Cucumber Raita: This cooling yogurt-based side dish provides a refreshing contrast, balancing the warmth of the spices. Fresh Salad: A crisp, vibrant salad featuring mixed greens and citrus vinaigrette offers brightness and a pleasant texture, cutting through the creaminess. Sweet Lassi: A cold, refreshing drink that complements the rich flavors while offering a touch of sweetness to your palate. Cardamom Tea: Fragrant and soothing, it serves as a delightful digestif that pairs nicely with the spices in the dish. Coconut Macaroons: These sweet bites are a lovely dessert finish, echoing the dish’s coconut notes and providing a satisfying end to the meal. Dark Chocolate Mousse: Rich yet airy, this dessert adds a touch of elegance to your dinner, perfect for special occasions. How to Store and Freeze Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of coconut milk or water to restore creaminess. Freezer: Freeze the butternut squash butter chicken for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove for best texture. Reheating: Reheat on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You may need to add a little water or coconut milk to maintain a creamy consistency. Portioning: For easy meals, consider freezing in individual servings, making it simple to grab a healthy dinner option whenever you’re short on time. Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs What type of butternut squash is best for this recipe? Absolutely! For a delightful creamy texture, I recommend using butternut squash puree, which can be either homemade or store-bought. If you’re making it from scratch, roast a peeled and diced butternut squash in the oven until tender—about 25 to 30 minutes at 400°F—then blend until smooth. This enhances the dish’s overall flavor while ensuring the right consistency in your butternut squash butter chicken. How should I store leftovers of butternut squash butter chicken? Very! Store any leftover creamy butternut squash butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of coconut milk or water if needed to keep the sauce creamy and smooth. Can butternut squash butter chicken be frozen? Absolutely! To freeze your butternut squash butter chicken, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat slowly on the stove to maintain the dish’s luxurious texture. What should I do if the chicken is tough? If your chicken turns out tough, it might have been overcooked. To avoid this, ensure that you monitor the simmering time closely—about 20 minutes should be ideal. Use a meat thermometer to test doneness, as chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If your butternut squash butter chicken is cooked perfectly but still a bit chewy, consider adjusting the heat during simmering; keeping it low and slow helps tenderize meat for the best results. Is this dish safe for people with dairy allergies? Yes! The butternut squash butter chicken can easily cater to dairy allergies by using full-fat coconut milk, which serves as an excellent dairy-free alternative. Just ensure to leave out the butter or replace it with a dairy-free option such as coconut oil to maintain that delicious creaminess. Always check labels for hidden allergens when choosing your ingredients. Can I use other proteins in place of chicken? Very! If you’re looking for a different protein option, consider using chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian or vegan alternative. Simply replace the chicken with 1 can (15 oz) of chickpeas or 14 oz of firm tofu (cubed). Adjust the cooking time slightly, as these will require less time to cook and absorb the wonderful flavors of your butternut squash butter chicken. Butternut Squash Butter Chicken: A Creamy Comfort Dish Butternut Squash Butter Chicken is a creamy, comforting dish combining tender chicken with sweet butternut squash and vibrant spices, perfect for busy weeknights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: IndianCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs You can substitute with chicken breasts for a leaner option.For the Sauce2 tablespoons vegetable oil A neutral-flavored fat for cooking.1 medium onion Chopped, adds sweetness.3 cloves garlic Minced, enhances depth.1 tablespoon fresh ginger Grated, infuses warmth.1 cup butternut squash puree Sweetness and creaminess.1 cup full-fat coconut milk Dairy-free alternative to heavy cream.1/2 cup tomato puree Adds acidity.2 tablespoons butter Enriches the sauce.For Seasoning2 teaspoons garam masala1 teaspoon turmeric1 teaspoon cumin powder1 teaspoon coriander powder1/2 teaspoon chili powdersalt To taste.pepper To taste.For Garnishing & Servingfresh cilantro leaves For garnish.basmati rice or naan For serving. Equipment large pan Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until translucent and fragrant. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional 1–2 minutes until aromatic.Introduce the chicken thighs to the pan. Increase heat to medium-high and brown the chicken for about 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally until golden crust forms on all sides.Sprinkle in garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander powder, and chili powder, seasoning with salt and pepper. Stir for 1–2 minutes until spices are fragrant.Reduce heat to low and stir in butternut squash puree, coconut milk, and tomato puree. Mix well until combined.Cover and let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.In the last few minutes, stir in butter until melted, adjusting seasoning as desired.Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over basmati rice or with naan. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg NotesFor the best results, brown the chicken thoroughly and stir frequently while simmering the sauce. Adjust seasonings to your preference. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
