Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken with Butternut Squash Recipe

Introduction

This Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken with Butternut Squash is a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. The sweet maple syrup pairs beautifully with tangy Dijon mustard, while tender chicken and squash make it a wholesome dish everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
2. Step 2: Layer the cubed butternut squash on top of the chicken.
3. Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and chicken broth.
4. Step 4: Drizzle the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken and squash.
5. Step 5: Drizzle olive oil over the top to add moisture and flavor.
6. Step 6: Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours, or on high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
7. Step 7: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
8. Step 8: Shred the chicken directly in the crockpot or serve the breasts whole alongside the squash and sauce.
9. Step 9: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For added texture, roast the butternut squash cubes before layering them in the crockpot.
• Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier result.
• Use low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness.
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle spicy kick.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through to keep the chicken tender. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts for even cooking. If using frozen, increase the cooking time and check doneness with a meat thermometer to ensure safety.

Is butternut squash necessary or can I substitute something else?

Butternut squash adds sweetness and texture, but you can substitute with sweet potatoes or carrots for a similar effect.

Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken with Butternut Squash Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 64 reviews

This easy and flavorful Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken with Butternut Squash is a comforting one-pot meal combining juicy chicken breasts with sweet and savory sauce, tender butternut squash, and aromatic herbs. Slow-cooked to perfection, it’s a convenient, hearty dish perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

• Author: Lena
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours (low) or 2 to 3 hours (high)
• Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

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Chicken and Vegetables

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups butternut squash, cubed

Sauce

• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chicken broth

Additional

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare Chicken: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot, ensuring they are arranged in a single layer for even cooking.
2. Add Butternut Squash: Layer the cubed butternut squash evenly on top of the chicken breasts to allow flavors to meld during cooking.
3. Mix Sauce Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and chicken broth until smooth and well combined.
4. Pour Sauce Over: Drizzle the prepared sauce evenly over the chicken and squash in the crockpot to coat all ingredients thoroughly.
5. Add Olive Oil: Drizzle olive oil on top of the sauce and ingredients to add moisture and enhance the flavor profile.
6. Cook on Low: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat setting for 4 to 6 hours, or alternatively on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
7. Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to verify that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
8. Shred or Serve Whole: You may shred the chicken directly in the crockpot for a pulled chicken style dish or serve the breasts whole alongside the butternut squash and sauce.
9. Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top before serving to add a burst of color and fresh herb flavor.

Notes

• For best flavor, use fresh butternut squash peeled and cubed evenly.
• Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper.
• Chicken can be substituted with thighs for more juiciness.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• This dish pairs well with steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Keywords: crockpot chicken, maple Dijon chicken, butternut squash recipe, slow cooker dinner, easy chicken recipe, gluten free chicken dinner, one pot meal