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Chicken Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe

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4.2 from 90 reviews

This hearty Chicken Butternut Squash Casserole combines tender shredded chicken with creamy butternut squash, savory herbs, and melted cheddar cheese, all baked to golden perfection. It’s a comforting and nutritious one-dish dinner perfect for cozy evenings.

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 5 servings

Ingredients

Chicken and Vegetables

  • 2 chicken breasts
  • 1 medium butternut squash (peeled and cubed)
  • 1 onion (diced)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)

Liquids and Dairy

  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

Seasonings and Toppings

  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste (approximately ½ tsp salt and ¼ tsp pepper used in the mixture)
  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp oil (for cooking chicken)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
  2. Cook Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat, then cook the chicken breasts for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, shred the chicken and set aside.
  3. Boil Butternut Squash: Boil the peeled and cubed butternut squash in water for 10-12 minutes, until it’s tender and easily pierced with a fork. Drain well.
  4. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained butternut squash, shredded chicken, diced onion, and minced garlic thoroughly.
  5. Add Liquids and Seasonings: Stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, ¾ cup of shredded cheddar cheese, dried thyme, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Mix all ingredients together until well incorporated.
  6. Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  7. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese and the ¼ cup breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole.
  8. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the edges are bubbling and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
  9. Rest: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes to set before serving.
  10. Serve: Serve the casserole hot and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal.

Notes

  • You can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed crackers or panko for extra crunch.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, though the casserole will be less rich.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • If you prefer, roast the butternut squash cubes instead of boiling for added depth of flavor.
  • Adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or sage as a garnish enhances the aroma and taste.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American