Description
Apple Butternut Squash Chicken in the Crockpot is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy butternut squash, and the sweetness of apples in a perfectly balanced meal. With minimal prep and the magic of slow cooking, this fall-inspired recipe is a comforting delight for any day of the week.
Ingredients
To Sear the Chicken
- 4 large chicken breasts
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
To Cook the Chicken
- 1 large butternut squash, chopped
- 1 medium Granny Smith apple, thinly sliced
- 1½ tablespoons yellow mustard sauce
- 1½ tablespoons maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme or 2 fresh thyme sprigs
- ½ inch grated ginger (or ½ teaspoon ground ginger)
- 2 sticks unsalted butter, melted and browned
For Garnish
- Fresh sage leaves
Instructions
- Sear the Chicken
- Rub the chicken breasts with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken breasts for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Crockpot Base
- Place the chopped butternut squash at the bottom of the crockpot.
- In a bowl, mix mustard sauce, maple syrup, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, sriracha, smoked paprika, thyme, and grated ginger.
- Pour this sauce mixture over the butternut squash, ensuring it is evenly coated.
- Layer the Ingredients
- Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the squash mixture.
- Drizzle browned butter over the chicken.
- Layer the thinly sliced Granny Smith apple on top of the chicken.
- Cook the Dish
- Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the squash is tender.
- Garnish and Serve
- Garnish the dish with fresh sage leaves for a fragrant and colorful finish.
- Serve hot, paired with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Notes
- Substitute for Chicken Breasts: Use chicken thighs for a juicier option.
- Dairy-Free Alternative: Replace browned butter with olive oil or coconut oil.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust sriracha based on your spice preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (low) or 2 hours (high)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American