Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms both the heart and belly, you’ve come to the right place! This Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken is a true favorite in my kitchen. It combines tender chicken with a luscious sauce that balances spices and sweetness beautifully. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with family, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.

The best part? It’s easy to whip up, and the flavors only get better as they meld together. Plus, it’s perfect for serving over fluffy basmati rice or alongside warm naan. Trust me, once you try this dish, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cook time, dinner is ready in under an hour!
• Family-friendly flavors: The creamy sauce and tender chicken make this dish appealing to all ages.
• Make-ahead meal: Perfect for meal prep! Make it ahead of time and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.
• Wholesome ingredients: Packed with nutritious butternut squash and coconut milk, it’s a comforting yet healthy option.
• Versatile serving options: Pair it with rice, naan, or even steamed veggies for a complete meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! You might already have some of these in your pantry. Each component works together to create that delightful creamy sauce we all adore.

For the Chicken Dish

• 1 1/2 pounds (675g) boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 cup butternut squash puree (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
• 1/2 cup tomato puree
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
• Cooked basmati rice or naan, for serving

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to put your own spin on it with these ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breast instead of thighs for a leaner option or try chickpeas for a vegetarian twist!
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers during cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Adjust the spice level: If you like heat, add more chili powder or include diced jalapeños.
• Make it dairy-free: Swap out the butter for olive oil when finishing off the dish.

How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they are translucent—this usually takes about 5 minutes. Sautéing brings out their natural sweetness and sets up a flavorful base.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Ginger

Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. These aromatics give your dish that warm, inviting scent that draws everyone into the kitchen!

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the pan and cook until they are browned on all sides—this should take around 8-10 minutes. Browning adds depth of flavor that makes your creamy sauce even more delicious.

Step 4: Spice It Up

Stir in the garam masala, turmeric, cumin powder, coriander powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is well-coated with spices. This step is crucial; it enhances all those lovely flavors!

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Reduce the heat to low. Now add in your butternut squash puree, coconut milk, and tomato puree. Stir well to combine everything into one luscious mixture. This is where magic happens!

Step 6: Simmer Until Perfect

Allow your mixture to simmer for about 20 minutes while stirring occasionally. This gives time for all those flavors to mingle together beautifully while thickening up your sauce.

Step 7: Finish with Butter

In those last few minutes of cooking time, stir in the butter until melted. This adds an extra layer of creaminess that makes every spoonful irresistible.

Step 8: Adjust Seasoning & Garnish

Taste your dish before serving! Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro leaves—it adds brightness both visually and taste-wise!

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve hot over fluffy basmati rice or alongside warm naan. Enjoy every comforting bite of this creamy butternut squash butter chicken!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken

Making a delicious Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken is all about the little details, so here are some friendly tips to elevate your dish!

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices or recently opened jars pack a more potent flavor, ensuring your curry is aromatic and bursting with taste.
• Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the chili powder or omit it altogether. Conversely, for those who enjoy heat, add some diced green chilies for an extra kick!
• Homemade butternut squash puree: If you have the time, making your own puree from roasted butternut squash will enhance the sweetness and depth of flavor in your dish.
• Don’t rush the simmering: Allowing the chicken to simmer in the sauce for a longer period deepens the flavors and ensures that the chicken becomes tender and juicy.
• Finish with lime juice: A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving brightens up the dish and balances the creaminess of the coconut milk.

How to Serve Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken

This creamy dish not only tastes incredible but also looks beautiful on any dinner table. Here are some ideas on how to present it for maximum appeal!

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves over your dish for a pop of color and freshness that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Sliced red chilies: For those who love a bit of heat, thinly sliced red chilies add both visual appeal and an extra kick.
• Toasted nuts: Sprinkle toasted cashews or almonds on top for added crunch and richness.

Side Dishes

• Basmati rice: Fluffy basmati rice is perfect for soaking up all that creamy sauce. The subtle nutty flavor pairs wonderfully with the spices in your butter chicken.
• Naan bread: Soft, warm naan bread is not just great for scooping up your chicken but also adds a lovely texture contrast to each bite.
• Roasted vegetables: A side of seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini brings color and nutrition to your meal while balancing out the richness of the curry.
• Cucumber raita: This refreshing yogurt-based dip made with cucumbers and mint helps cool down your palate after each bite of spicy butter chicken.

Enjoy serving this delightful dish at your next dinner gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken is not just a delightful dish for dinner; it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week, saving you time on busy nights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion out the chicken into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious recipe!

Can I use other types of squash instead of butternut?

Yes! You can substitute butternut squash with pumpkin puree or acorn squash puree for a similar creamy texture and flavor.

How do I make Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of chili powder or add red pepper flakes according to your taste preference.

Can I make Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken dairy-free?

Yes! This recipe is already dairy-free due to the use of coconut milk. Just ensure that any additional ingredients you use align with your dietary needs.

What can I serve with Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with basmati rice or naan, which helps soak up the delicious sauce!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try this Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken as I am! It’s a wonderful recipe that brings warmth and comfort, making it perfect for any dinner table. Enjoy making this dish, and don’t forget to share it with your loved ones. Happy cooking!