If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, flavor-packed meal that practically makes itself, then you’re in for a real treat with the Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken with Butternut Squash Recipe. This dish harmoniously blends the sweet, tangy notes of maple syrup and Dijon mustard with tender chicken and naturally sweet butternut squash, slow-cooked to perfection. It’s a true weeknight winner that elevates simple ingredients into something beautifully cozy and satisfying, making it a staple you’ll want on repeat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind the Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken with Butternut Squash Recipe lies in a handful of fresh and pantry-friendly ingredients that each bring their own unique touch. From the earthy sweetness of butternut squash to the fragrant herbs that add depth, every item is essential for crafting a balanced and delicious dish.
- Chicken thighs or breasts: Choose between these tender options to suit your preference—thighs offer a juicier bite, while breasts are leaner.
- Butternut squash: Peeled and cubed, it adds subtle sweetness and a soft texture that complements the chicken wonderfully.
- Maple syrup: Provides natural sweetness with caramel undertones that elevate the dish’s flavor profile.
- Dijon mustard: Brings a tangy brightness that cuts through the richness of the chicken and maple syrup.
- Garlic: Minced cloves infuse a warm, aromatic depth throughout the slow-cooked meal.
- Chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and adds a savory base for the sauce.
- Olive oil: Used for searing the chicken, it locks in flavor and creates a golden crust.
- Dried thyme: Adds herbal earthiness that pairs perfectly with poultry.
- Dried rosemary: A fragrant herb that enhances the overall aroma and taste.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of every ingredient.
- Black pepper: Adds a touch of spice and balance to the dish.
How to Make Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken with Butternut Squash Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken thighs or breasts generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. Then heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes per side. This important step locks in juices and creates a beautiful golden crust that adds fantastic flavor when slow-cooked.
Step 2: Prepare the Butternut Squash
While the chicken is searing, carefully peel and cube your butternut squash into bite-sized pieces. Keeping the cubes uniform in size ensures even cooking later in the crockpot and helps the squash soften to the perfect tender texture.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Maple Dijon Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, chicken broth, dried thyme, and rosemary. Whisk everything until smooth, creating a sweet, savory sauce that will coat the chicken and squash while infusing the whole dish with divine flavors.
Step 4: Layer the Ingredients in the Crockpot
Place the cubed butternut squash evenly across the bottom of your crockpot. Next, arrange the seared chicken pieces on top of the squash. Pour the luscious maple Dijon sauce evenly over everything, making sure each bite will be coated in that irresistible glaze.
Step 5: Slow Cook Until Tender
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. During this slow cooking process, the chicken becomes irresistibly tender, and the butternut squash softens while soaking up all the delicious sauce.
Step 6: Stir and Serve Warm
When cooking time is complete, gently stir the ingredients to combine all the flavors before serving. This final touch ensures every bite delivers the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes that make the Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken with Butternut Squash Recipe so special.
How to Serve Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken with Butternut Squash Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your serving by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or thyme leaves on top for a pop of color and fresh herbal aroma. A light drizzle of extra maple syrup or a sprinkle of coarse sea salt can also add a lovely finishing touch to brighten the flavors.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides. Consider fluffy mashed potatoes, creamy rice, or a crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette to balance its richness. Roasted Brussels sprouts or steamed green beans make excellent veggie companions that keep the meal wholesome.
Creative Ways to Present
For a rustic touch, serve the chicken and squash directly in a shallow cast-iron skillet or a warm ceramic bowl. You can also use edible bowls made from hollowed-out bread or roasted acorn squash halves for a fun, seasonal presentation that impresses guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, the leftovers remain delicious for up to 3 days, making for easy next-day reheats or quick lunches.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you’d like to prepare it in advance. Pack cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty ziplock bags, removing as much air as possible. It will keep its quality for up to 3 months in the freezer, perfect for busy days.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge or gently warm refrigerated leftovers in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of chicken broth while reheating helps keep the chicken juicy and the squash tender.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work fine for this recipe. Just keep an eye on cooking time since breasts can dry out faster than thighs. Searing them well before slow cooking helps lock in moisture and flavor.
Is it necessary to sear the chicken first?
While you can skip searing in a pinch, browning the chicken adds a depth of flavor and a lovely color that enhances the whole dish. It’s worth the extra few minutes for richer taste.
Can I substitute another type of squash?
Yes, butternut squash is ideal for its sweetness and texture, but you can also try acorn squash or kabocha. Just adjust cooking times slightly as needed since different squashes vary in softness and moisture.
How sweet is the dish with maple syrup?
The maple syrup adds a gentle sweetness balanced by the tang of Dijon mustard and savory herbs. It’s not overpowering but gives a lovely warm flavor that complements the chicken and squash perfectly.
Can I double the recipe for a larger group?
Definitely! You can double or even triple the ingredients, but make sure your crockpot is large enough to allow proper cooking. You might need to increase cooking time slightly if the pot is very full.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken with Butternut Squash Recipe is a true gem in the world of slow-cooker meals. It’s simple yet bursting with flavor, and the way the ingredients meld together creates a cozy dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how effortless comfort food can taste so impressive and satisfying every single time!
Print
Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken with Butternut Squash Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken with Butternut Squash is a comforting, slow-cooked meal featuring tender chicken thighs or breasts seared to perfection and simmered with sweet butternut squash in a flavorful maple Dijon sauce. The combination of maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and aromatic herbs creates a rich yet balanced dish perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1.5 to 2 pounds chicken thighs or chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Vegetables
- 3 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
Sauce
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Season chicken thighs or breasts evenly on both sides with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor before cooking.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until golden brown to lock in juices and add depth of flavor.
- Prepare Squash: Peel and cube the butternut squash into uniform, bite-sized chunks to ensure even cooking during the slow-cooking process.
- Make Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, chicken broth, dried thyme, and dried rosemary until well combined to create a flavorful sauce.
- Layer Ingredients: Place the cubed butternut squash at the bottom of the crockpot. Layer the seared chicken pieces on top of the squash evenly.
- Add Sauce: Pour the prepared maple Dijon sauce evenly over the chicken and squash layers for uniform flavor infusion during cooking.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low heat for 6 to 7 hours or on high heat for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the squash is soft and fully cooked.
- Finish and Serve: Gently stir the contents of the crockpot to combine flavors. Serve the dish warm for a cozy and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat; chicken breasts work well if you prefer leaner protein.
- For a thicker sauce, remove the chicken and squash after cooking and simmer the sauce on the stovetop for a few minutes until reduced.
- You can add additional vegetables like carrots or onions for more variety and flavor.
- Adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper to taste before serving.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
