This cozy chicken stew features tender chicken and sweet butternut squash cooked together. It’s a heartwarming dish that will warm you up from the inside!
I love how the squash adds a lovely sweetness and vibrant color to the stew. Plus, it’s so easy to make that you can enjoy it any night of the week! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: I use olive oil for sautĂ©ing due to its lovely flavor. If you’re out, any vegetable oil will work. You can also use butter for a different taste!
Chicken: Chicken thighs are flavorful and stay tender in stews. However, you can substitute with chicken breasts or even turkey for a healthier option.
Butternut Squash: This ingredient gives the stew sweetness. If you can’t find it, sweet potatoes or carrots work well too. They may change the flavor slightly, but still delicious!
Diced Tomatoes: Fresh or canned tomatoes are great here, but you can use tomato paste or sauce in a pinch. Just adjust the liquid slightly if using paste.
How Do You Perfectly Sauté Onions and Garlic for Stew?
Getting those onions and garlic right sets the base for your stew. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat the olive oil over medium heat in your pot.
- Add chopped onions first and cook until they become soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Then, add minced garlic for just a minute. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
These steps enhance the flavors and aromas, giving a tasty depth to your stew!
Chicken Stew with Butternut Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This chicken stew takes about 15 minutes to prepare, followed by 30 to 40 minutes of cooking time. So, in total, you’ll need about 1 hour to get this delicious dish ready to serve. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. This is where the flavor begins!
2. Sauté the Onions:
Add the chopped onion to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Stir occasionally to ensure they don’t stick.
3. Add the Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can get bitter!
4. Cook the Chicken:
Add your chicken pieces to the pot now. Season with salt and pepper. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes until they are lightly browned on all sides. This step seals in their juices!
5. Add Spices:
Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, cumin, and thyme. Stir everything together and let the spices cook for a minute to release their delicious aromas.
6. Combine Vegetables:
Add the cubed butternut squash, sliced carrots, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Give it a good stir to combine all the ingredients.
7. Pour in the Broth:
Add the chicken broth next and bring everything to a boil. This will help the flavors meld together beautifully.
8. Simmer:
Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes. This is when the squash and carrots will become tender and the chicken will cook through.
9. Taste & Adjust Seasoning:
After simmering, be sure to taste your stew! Adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper if needed.
10. Serve & Garnish:
Once everything is cooked to perfection, serve the stew hot! Don’t forget to sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a lovely touch.
Enjoy your warming and hearty Chicken Stew with Butternut Squash! It’s perfect for chilly evenings and brings comfort to your table. 🍲
Can I Use Frozen Butternut Squash?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the frozen butternut squash before adding it to the stew. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the microwave for a quicker option. Adjust the cooking time slightly since thawed squash will cook faster.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing, and thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to include other veggies you enjoy, such as potatoes, peas, or bell peppers. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking!
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can! To adapt it for a slow cooker, sauté the onions and garlic in a separate pan first, then add all ingredients (including uncooked chicken) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until everything is tender.
