Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s cozy, flavorful, and just a tad indulgent, you’ve got to try this Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Recipe. It’s that perfect marriage of tender chicken bathed in a luxuriously spiced, creamy coconut and butter sauce, all elevated by sweet butternut squash. When I first made this recipe, I was blown away by how all the ingredients come together to create something so comforting yet exciting — it’s become an absolute staple in my kitchen that I’m excited to share with you!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here does a little magic on its own, but together they create that creamy, spiced vibe that makes this Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Recipe so special. When shopping, look for fresh, vibrant spices and a firm butternut squash for the best results.

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Thighs stay more tender and juicy, but breasts work well too if you prefer leaner meat.
• Plain Greek yogurt: Adds extra creaminess and tang to the chicken marinade.
• Garam masala: The spice blend that brings warmth and depth—don’t skip or substitute lightly!
• Paprika: Adds mild smokiness and color.
• Cumin: Earthy and nutty, it rounds out the spice profile.
• Turmeric: Gives that golden glow and a subtle, slightly bitter kick.
• Cayenne pepper: Use sparingly at first; you can always add more if you like heat.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: The essentials for seasoning perfectly.
• Extra virgin olive oil: For a light sear before butter truly shines.
• Salted butter: Creates that rich, silky sauce everyone dreams about.
• Yellow onion: Sweetness and texture that build the sauce’s foundation.
• Butternut squash: Cubed—makes for tender bites that soak up all that buttery sauce.
• Garlic: Fresh and chopped, because garlic is life.
• Fresh grated ginger: Adds a lovely zing and freshness.
• Chili flakes: Optional but recommended for a subtle kick.
• Tomato paste: Deepens the flavor and adds a slight tang.
• Full-fat coconut milk: That luscious creamy base that melds everything together.
• Fresh cilantro: Stirred in last for that bright, herbal finish.

Variations

I love to tweak this Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Recipe based on what’s in my pantry or dietary preferences. Feel free to make it yours by adjusting spice levels or swapping ingredients to fit your tastes.

• Milder Version: Cut back on the cayenne and chili flakes for a gentle, kid-friendly dish my nephew adores.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt and skip the butter, or replace with coconut oil to keep it rich but dairy-free.
• Extra Veggies: Adding spinach or kale near the end is a quick way to sneak in some greens without throwing off the flavors.
• Protein Swap: If you’re not into chicken, this sauce works beautifully with shrimp or tofu too.

How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor

Start by tossing your bite-sized chicken pieces with plain Greek yogurt, 2 teaspoons of garam masala, 1 teaspoon of cumin, half teaspoon each of paprika and turmeric, a little cayenne pepper (adjust to your heat preference), and a teaspoon of kosher salt. Let this sit for 5-10 minutes to soak up all those gorgeous spices. This marinade not only infuses flavor but helps keep the chicken tender and juicy while cooking — trust me, it makes a difference!

Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your marinated chicken and sear it on both sides until beautifully browned—about 2 minutes per side. Then throw in 2 tablespoons of butter and toss the chicken around until it’s coated in all that buttery goodness. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside—it will finish cooking later, so no worries.

Step 3: Build the Sauce with Butternut Squash and Spices

In the same skillet (don’t wash it—flavor is building here!), add the chopped onion and cubed butternut squash. Toss everything with the butter left in the pan and cook for about 5 minutes until the squash starts to soften. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, garlic, fresh grated ginger, 1 tablespoon garam masala, 1 teaspoon cumin, half teaspoon each of paprika and turmeric, and a pinch or two of chili flakes for some heat. Season with salt and pepper. Let the spices toast gently and fill your kitchen with that intoxicating aroma, about 5 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 3-4 minutes to deepen those flavors.

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce and Finish the Chicken

Lower your heat to low and pour in 1 cup of water along with the full-fat coconut milk. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly. If you find the sauce too thick, add an extra half to one cup of coconut milk to get your desired consistency. Now return the chicken pieces and any juices back into the skillet. Stir occasionally and simmer for about 10 minutes until the chicken’s cooked through and the sauce hugs each bite beautifully. Remove from heat and toss in the fresh cilantro, then give it a final seasoning check with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Spoon your creamy, buttery butternut squash butter chicken over fluffy basmati rice and don’t forget some warm naan to soak up that delicious sauce. I swear, every time I serve this, the table goes silent before everyone dives in—it’s that good!

How to Serve Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro is my go-to garnish because it adds a fresh, herbal brightness that cuts through the richness. Sometimes, I sprinkle a few toasted cashews or slivered almonds on top for crunch. A wedge of lime on the side also makes a nice contrast if you want to add a tangy zing.

Side Dishes

I always serve this dish over fragrant basmati rice — it soaks up the sauce perfectly. Warm, soft naan bread is a must-have for me to scoop up every last bit. Roasted or steamed green veggies like broccoli or green beans bring a nice color and freshness to the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I love serving this butter chicken in little stoneware bowls with a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds on top for a pop of color and sweet-tart bite. Setting the table with a few small herb pots or aromatic candles makes the whole meal feel like a celebration without any fuss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge where it stays good for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld beautifully overnight — sometimes it tastes even better the next day! Just give it a good stir before reheating since the sauce can thicken up.

Freezing

This Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Recipe freezes surprisingly well. I let the dish cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It’s great to pull out on a busy night. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

I gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen the sauce as needed. Reheating slowly preserves that creamy texture without drying the chicken out. Microwaving works too, just cover loosely and heat in short increments while stirring.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Recipe really feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s one of those dishes I turn to when I want something comforting, special, and straightforward to make. Whether you’re cooking for family, impressing guests, or just craving some cozy indulgence, you’ll find that this recipe hits all the right notes. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do – once you try it, it might just become your new weeknight favorite too!

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