As the chill of evening settles in, there’s something enchanting about a warming pot bubbling on the stove. A quick stir and the fragrant aroma of my Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken fills the kitchen, igniting my senses and making my heart smile. This easy dinner recipe beautifully blends savory chicken with luscious butternut squash and creamy coconut milk—a comforting curry that’s both healthy and unbelievably delicious. Ready in just 55 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with loved ones. Plus, with the option to swap in plant-based proteins for a vegetarian or vegan twist, there’s a delightful choice for everyone at your table. Are you ready to embrace the cozy goodness of this creamy curry? Let’s dive in! Why is this recipe a game changer? Unique Flavor Fusion: Butternut squash melds seamlessly with traditional butter chicken spices, creating a curry that’s both comforting and innovative. Quick & Easy: Whip this dish together in just 55 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Healthy Twist: Enjoy the creamy texture of coconut milk without the guilt; it’s rich and dairy-free! Versatile Options: Easily switch to tofu or chickpeas for a delightful vegetarian or vegan alternative, ensuring everyone can indulge. Crowd Pleaser: Whether you’re cozying up solo or hosting friends, this dish brings smiles all around—perfect with basmati rice or naan! For a more butter chicken inspiration, check out my Garlic Butter Chicken and Butter Chicken Linguine recipes! Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Ingredients • Discover the joyful elements that make this dish a wholesome delight! For the Chicken Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs – A juicy protein option that holds up well in curry; chicken breasts are drier. Butter – Adds a silky richness; swap for coconut oil for a vegan alternative. For the Sauce Vegetable Oil – Ideal for cooking aromatics without burning; high smoke point is key. Onion – Sweetens as it cooks, forming the dish’s savory foundation; finely chopped is best. Garlic (minced) – Elevates flavor complexity and balances sweetness; fresh is best. Fresh Ginger (grated) – Brings warmth and brightness to the mix. Butternut Squash Puree – Provides a sweet, creamy texture; homemade or store-bought works perfectly. Coconut Milk (full-fat) – A dairy-free cream alternative that adds richness; essential for creaminess. Tomato Puree – Enhances the sauce with acidity; balances the sweetness of the squash. For the Spices Garam Masala – The fragrant spice blend that elevates the entire dish; a must-have! Turmeric – Adds beautiful color and an earthy flavor; small amounts pack a punch. Cumin Powder – Introduces warm, savory notes that complement the sweetness. Coriander Powder – Offers a mild, citrus-like sweetness that enhances flavor depth. Chili Powder – Provides a touch of heat; adjust to your desired spice level. Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing overall flavor. For Garnish Fresh Cilantro Leaves – Adds a pop of color and freshness on top! For Serving Basmati Rice or Naan – Perfect for soaking up the delectable sauce; satisfying accompaniments! With these ingredients in hand, you’re one step closer to enjoying a Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken that warms hearts and bellies alike! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Step 1: Heat the Oil and Sauté Onions In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add 1 finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it turns translucent and slightly golden. This will create a savory base for your creamy butternut squash butter chicken, filling the kitchen with enticing aromas. Step 2: Add Garlic and Ginger Stir in 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as you’ll want the wonderful flavors to meld harmoniously in your dish. Step 3: Brown the Chicken Add 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces, to the pan. Sauté the chicken for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until browned on all sides. This step is crucial for sealing in the juices, ensuring your creamy butternut squash butter chicken remains tender and juicy. Step 4: Incorporate Spices Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of garam masala, 1 teaspoon of turmeric, 1 teaspoon of cumin powder, 1 teaspoon of coriander powder, and ½ teaspoon of chili powder, along with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well for about 1-2 minutes, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated with the vibrant spices, releasing their aromatic fragrances. Step 5: Add Purees and Coconut Milk Lower the heat, then stir in 1 cup of butternut squash puree, 1 cup of full-fat coconut milk, and ¼ cup of tomato puree. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and smooth, creating a luscious sauce. The creamy texture is essential for the rich flavor of your creamy butternut squash butter chicken. Step 6: Simmer the Dish Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The chicken will become tender, and the sauce will thicken, enveloping everything in a delightful creamy coating. Keep an eye out for the sauce to bubble softly. Step 7: Add Butter for Creaminess Once the chicken is cooked through, stir in 1 tablespoon of butter until melted and well incorporated. This step elevates your creamy butternut squash butter chicken, adding richness and a glossy finish to the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed to enhance the overall flavor. Step 8: Garnish and Serve Finally, remove the pan from heat and garnish your dish with freshly chopped cilantro leaves. Serve the creamy butternut squash butter chicken hot alongside basmati rice or naan for a complete, comforting meal. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma will make this dish a crowd pleaser. Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine and make this dish your own with these delightful variations! Vegetarian-Friendly: Substitute chicken with cubed tofu or chickpeas for a hearty plant-based option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Every bite will be just as satisfying in this cozy curry. Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream or butter for an ultra-rich flavor profile that keeps it completely dairy-free. This twist amplifies the tropical essence of coconut! Spice it Up: Increase the chili powder or add fresh chopped chilies for a fiery kick that complements the sweetness of the butternut squash. This variation will surely awaken your taste buds! Nutritional Boost: Toss in some fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking. This adds a pop of color, nutrition, and even more flavor to your creamy dish. Nutty Texture: Top your serving with a handful of toasted almond slivers or crushed cashews. They’ll provide a lovely crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. Herbaceous Twist: Swap out cilantro for fresh basil or mint for a unique take on flavor. These herbs add an aromatic freshness that makes each bite magical. Fun with Fruits: Stir in a small handful of raisins or diced apple for a sweet note that pairs perfectly with the curry spices. It’s an unexpected but delightful surprise. For even more butter chicken inspiration, be sure to explore Garlic Butter Chicken and Butter Chicken Linguine! Expert Tips for Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Monitor Garlic: Avoid burning garlic while sautéing; it’s fragile and can easily spoil the dish’s flavor. Stir frequently for optimal results. Customize Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your family’s heat preferences. Start with a small amount and build up as needed for your creamy butternut squash butter chicken. Let It Rest: For deeper flavor, let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking. This resting time helps the spices to meld perfectly. Check Chicken Doneness: Ensure chicken is thoroughly cooked by checking its internal temperature, targeting 165°F (75°C) to keep it safe and juicy. Experiment with Proteins: For a plant-based twist, switch chicken with chickpeas or cubed tofu. Both options add heartiness while keeping your creamy butternut squash butter chicken delightful. Storage Tips for Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring you keep the dish fresh and flavorful for future enjoyment. Freezer: If you need a longer storage solution, freeze the creamy butternut squash butter chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of coconut milk or water if the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming. Labeling: Write the date on your containers so you can easily track freshness and enjoy your delicious dish at its best! What to Serve with Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Imagine a cozy dinner where flavors dance on your palate, each bite a warm embrace of comfort. Basmati Rice: Fluffy and aromatic, this rice is the perfect canvas for soaking up the creamy sauce, enhancing every mouthful. Warm Naan: Soft, chewy, and slightly charred, naan makes for an irresistible tool to scoop up the rich curry, inviting shared moments. Steamed Broccoli: Crisp and vibrant, the slight bitterness of broccoli balances the dish’s sweetness while adding a refreshing crunch to your plate. Crisp Green Salad: A bright salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette provides a lovely contrast to the creamy curry, offering a burst of freshness. Raita: This cooling yogurt sauce with cucumber and mint adds a delightful tang, perfectly complementing the spices in the butternut squash butter chicken. Chai or Mint Tea: Steaming cups of spiced chai or refreshing mint tea can enhance your meal experience, adding warmth and flavor that lingers after each bite. Fruit Sorbet: For dessert, a light fruit sorbet refreshes the palate, contrasting the warm spices while keeping a focus on the meal’s wholesome vibe. Lemon Infused Water: Refreshing and tangy, a pitcher of lemon-infused water can cleanse your palate beautifully, allowing the rich flavors to shine throughout your dinner. Dark Chocolate Squares: End on a sweet note with a few squares of dark chocolate, perfectly bittersweet and luxurious alongside the comforting curry. Make Ahead Options These Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken preparations are perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to save time while still serving a delicious meal. You can prep the chicken and spices in advance—cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and mix the dried spices (garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chili powder) up to 24 hours before cooking. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain quality. Additionally, you can prepare the butternut squash puree a day ahead and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the onions, add the prepped chicken and spices, followed by the purees, and let it simmer. This way, you’ll have a comforting dish with minimal effort, ready to delight your family! Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe butternut squash for this recipe? Absolutely! Look for butternut squash that feels heavy for its size with a dull skin, free of soft spots or blemishes. The hard, creamy skin should be beige or tan with minimal green streaks. If you see dark spots all over, it’s a sign that the squash may be overripe. What are the best storage methods for leftovers? You can store your creamy butternut squash butter chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, and don’t forget to add a splash of coconut milk or water to keep the sauce creamy! Can I freeze creamy butternut squash butter chicken? Yes! You can definitely freeze this dish for up to 3 months. To do so, place it in a freezer-safe container, letting it cool completely before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then reheat gently on the stovetop, adding some liquid if needed for consistency. What if my chicken is dry after cooking? If your chicken turns out dry, it might have been overcooked. Always ensure your chicken pieces are cut to a uniform size for even cooking, and check for doneness with a meat thermometer aiming for 165°F (75°C). For future reference, keep an eye on the simmering time, aiming for about 20 minutes for juicy results. Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions? Absolutely! For a vegetarian or vegan alternative, substitute chicken with cubed tofu or chickpeas. You can also switch butter for coconut oil to keep it vegan-friendly. Just be cautious with the spices if you’re cooking for someone with dietary allergies—always check labels! What are some good side options to serve with this dish? Basmati rice or warm naan are perfect match-ups for soaking up the creamy sauce of your creamy butternut squash butter chicken! You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the meal and add variety to your dining experience. Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken for Cozy Nights Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken is a comforting curry that blends savory chicken with butternut squash and coconut milk, perfect for cozy nights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: IndianCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs Cut into bite-sized pieces2 tablespoons Butter Can substitute with coconut oil for vegan optionFor the Sauce2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil For sautéing1 medium Onion Finely chopped1 tablespoon Garlic (minced) Fresh is best1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger (grated)1 cup Butternut Squash Puree Homemade or store-bought1 cup Coconut Milk (full-fat) For creaminess1/4 cup Tomato PureeFor the Spices2 teaspoons Garam Masala1 teaspoon Turmeric1 teaspoon Cumin Powder1 teaspoon Coriander Powder1/2 teaspoon Chili Powder Adjust for spice levelto taste Salt and Pepper Essential for flavorFor Garnish1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro Leaves ChoppedFor Serving Basmati Rice or Naan Accompaniments to soak up the sauce Equipment large pan Method Cooking StepsIn a large pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent.Stir in minced garlic and grated fresh ginger. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.Add chicken thighs to the pan, sauté for about 8-10 minutes until browned on all sides.Sprinkle in spices (garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, chili powder, salt, and pepper) and mix well for 1-2 minutes.Lower heat, stir in butternut squash puree, coconut milk, and tomato puree. Mix until smooth.Allow to simmer gently for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.Stir in butter until melted and combined, taste and adjust seasoning as needed.Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot with basmati rice or naan. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 12000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg NotesMake sure to monitor garlic to avoid burning. Customize spice levels to suit preferences. Let dish rest for deeper flavor after cooking. 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