Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, you’ve come to the right place! This Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken is a delightful twist on the classic Indian favorite. It brings together tender chicken and a luscious sauce that’s bursting with flavor. The addition of butternut squash not only adds natural sweetness but also makes this dish incredibly comforting and perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering.

I love how this recipe combines familiar, satisfying flavors with wholesome ingredients. It’s an excellent way to introduce a little seasonal flair into your meals while still keeping things simple and delicious. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to add it to your regular rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This recipe comes together in just under two hours, making it perfect for both weeknights and special occasions.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and mild spices—no one can resist that velvety sauce!
• Make ahead: You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the chicken when you’re ready to eat!
• Flavorful twist: The butternut squash not only enhances the dish’s flavor but also provides extra nutrients, making it a wholesome option.
• Versatile pairing: Enjoy this dish with basmati rice or naan bread—either way, you’ll have something delicious to soak up all that amazing sauce.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting dish:

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs (675g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 cup butternut squash puree (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
• 0.5 cup tomato puree
• 2 tbsp butter

For Seasoning

• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 0.5 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option or even tofu for a plant-based twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale at the end of cooking for added nutrients and color.
• Spice it up: If you like things hot, add more chili powder or include fresh chilies when sautéing the onions for an extra kick.
• Creamy alternatives: If you’re looking for dairy-free options, experiment with almond milk or cashew cream instead of coconut milk.

How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Butternut Squash Puree

If you’re making homemade butternut squash puree, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss about 1.5-2 lbs of cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, half a teaspoon of salt, and a quarter teaspoon of pepper. Roast these cubes for about 25-30 minutes until they’re tender. Once done, blend them with a bit of liquid until smooth to get your one cup of puree ready.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

While your squash is roasting, take those bite-sized chicken pieces and season them with salt, pepper, along with a pinch of chili powder, turmeric, and garam masala. This step adds depth right from the start!

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Heat one tablespoon each of vegetable oil and butter in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add your seasoned chicken in batches so they brown nicely without overcrowding. Once golden on all sides, remove them from the pan and set aside—this browning step adds layers of flavor.

Step 4: Sauté Onions & Aromatics

In that same pan, add another tablespoon each of vegetable oil and butter. Toss in your finely chopped onion and sauté it for about 8-10 minutes until it’s soft and golden brown. Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking just until fragrant—this will fill your kitchen with amazing aromas!

Step 5: Toast Your Spices

Now reduce the heat to low! Add garam masala, turmeric, cumin powder, coriander powder, and chili powder into that pan. Toasting these spices for 30-60 seconds brings out their essential oils—this is where magic happens!

Step 6: Make the Sauce

Stir in tomato puree along with your prepared butternut squash puree and coconut milk into the pan. Bring everything to a gentle simmer while mixing well; this is going to create such a creamy sauce!

Step 7: Combine Chicken & Sauce

Return those browned chicken pieces back into your lovely sauce mixture. Let everything simmer gently uncovered for about 10-15 minutes until chicken is fully cooked through and flavors meld beautifully together.

Step 8: Final Adjustments

Taste your sauce! Season with salt and pepper as needed; feel free to adjust spices if you want more warmth or flavor.

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy

Serve hot with fresh cilantro if you’d like! Pair this delightful dish with basmati rice or warm naan bread—it’s simply divine! Enjoy every bite of your Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken—it’s bound to become a new favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken

Cooking can be an adventure, and with a few simple tips, you can elevate your Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken to new heights!

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices enhance the flavor profile of your dish. They release essential oils that add depth and aroma, making every bite more delicious.

• Cook chicken in batches: Browning the chicken in batches prevents overcrowding in the pan. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that lovely golden color on each piece.

• Adjust sweetness: If you find the butternut squash puree makes the sauce sweeter than you’d like, balance it out with a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of chili powder. This adds complexity and brightens the flavors.

• Let it simmer: Allowing your dish to simmer gently lets the flavors meld beautifully. The longer it simmers (without overcooking), the richer and more cohesive your sauce will become.

• Taste as you go: Seasoning is key! Tasting throughout the cooking process allows you to adjust salt, spice levels, and sweetness to find your perfect balance.

How to Serve Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken

Presenting a beautiful dish is just as important as making it tasty! Here are some delightful ideas to serve your Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken that will impress family and friends alike.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds a pop of color and a refreshing flavor that complements the richness of the sauce.
• Chili flakes: For those who love a little heat, adding chili flakes on top not only enhances flavor but also gives an appealing visual contrast.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges alongside allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their servings, adding brightness that cuts through the creaminess.

Side Dishes

• Basmati rice: Fluffy basmati rice is a classic pairing that soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully. Its fragrant aroma perfectly complements the spices.
• Naan bread: Soft and buttery naan is perfect for scooping up chicken and sauce. You can serve it warm with a brush of garlic or herb butter for added flavor.
• Cucumber salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with yogurt dressing provides a crunchy contrast to the creamy dish, balancing flavors while adding freshness.
• Roasted vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal veggies like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers brings color and nutrition to your meal while complementing the warmth of butter chicken.

Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish with these serving suggestions that enhance both presentation and taste!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken is a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its comforting flavors throughout the week. Preparing it ahead of time not only saves you effort during busy days but also enhances the dish as the flavors meld together beautifully.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
• Heat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• You can also use a microwave; just make sure to cover and heat in short intervals, stirring between each.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries that may help you on your cooking journey.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken for Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken?

Yes! While chicken is traditional, you can substitute it with turkey or even plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian version. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken spicier?

If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper while cooking. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy an extra kick!

Can I use fresh butternut squash instead of puree?

Absolutely! If using fresh butternut squash, roast it until tender and blend it into a smooth puree before adding it to your sauce. This will enhance the flavor even more!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken finds its way into your kitchen soon! It’s such a special dish that combines comforting flavors with wholesome ingredients — perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Enjoy every creamy bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations. Happy cooking!

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