Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAmidst the hustle and bustle of a busy week, nothing feels quite as satisfying as coming home to the warm, welcoming aroma of a hearty meal simmering away in the kitchen. That’s where my Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken with Butternut Squash comes in. This easy, slow-cooked recipe not only delivers a wholesome dinner but also ensures you spend more time enjoying with loved ones and less time over the stove. Juicy chicken meets sweet, tender butternut squash, creating a delightful balance that is both comforting and nutritious. As a bonus, it’s perfect for meal prep and can easily be customized with your favorite veggies or homemade sides. Want to discover how this flavorful combination can transform your weeknight dinners? Let’s dive into the delicious details! Why is this recipe a game changer? Simplicity: This Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken with Butternut Squash requires minimal prep, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Wholesome Delight: Packed with protein and nutritious veggies, it’s a hearty meal you can feel good about serving. Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet maple syrup and tangy Dijon mustard creates a robust sauce that elevates every bite. Versatile Varieties: Customize with your choice of seasonal vegetables, or serve alongside mashed potatoes for extra comfort. Plus, check out my delicious Crockpot Chicken Tacos for another easy dinner option! Crowd-Pleaser: Family and friends will be begging for seconds, making it a perfect dish for gatherings or cozy dinners at home. Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken Ingredients For the Chicken • Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – This is the main protein, ensuring a juicy and satisfying meal. For the Squash • Butternut Squash – Adds natural sweetness and can be swapped with sweet potatoes or carrots for a different flavor. For the Sauce • Maple Syrup – Provides a wonderful sweetness; honey or agave syrup can be used as alternatives. • Dijon Mustard – Contributes tangy richness; use whole grain mustard for a different texture. • Garlic Powder – Enhances the flavor; fresh garlic offers a stronger taste if preferred. • Onion Powder – Adds depth; try using chopped fresh onion for a more robust profile. • Dried Thyme – Imparts an earthy aroma; suitable substitutes include rosemary or oregano. • Salt – Balances all flavors; you can omit it for a low-sodium version. • Black Pepper – Adds a touch of heat; white pepper can be used for a milder taste. • Chicken Broth – Ensures moisture and flavor depth; for a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth. For Cooking • Olive Oil – Enhances flavor and moisture retention; can be replaced with avocado oil or skipped for a fat-free dish. For Garnish • Fresh Parsley (optional) – Brightens the dish with color and freshness; cilantro is a great alternative if you prefer. Now, you’re just a few simple steps away from a heartwarming family meal! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash Step 1: Prepare Chicken Start by placing the boneless skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. This forms a juicy base for your Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken with Butternut Squash. Ensure the chicken is arranged in a single layer for even cooking, and don’t be afraid to give those lovely breasts a little space to breathe! Step 2: Add Butternut Squash Next, layer the cubed butternut squash on top of the chicken. This sweet and creamy vegetable will infuse the dish with warmth and texture as it cooks. For a vibrant look, aim for even-sized cubes, enhancing the visual appeal and ensuring uniform cooking throughout the 4-6 hours on low heat. Step 3: Mix Sauce In a mixing bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and chicken broth. This flavorful sauce will bring your Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken to life! The mixture should be consistent, showcasing a delightful balance of sweet and savory that you can already smell wafting through the kitchen. Step 4: Pour Sauce Over Drizzle the delicious sauce evenly over the chicken and squash in the crockpot, ensuring all ingredients are well coated. This helps to lock in moisture and flavor as they cook together. Take a moment to admire the beautiful color contrast as the sauce envelops everything, promising a hearty meal ahead. Step 5: Add Olive Oil Lightly drizzle olive oil over the top of the mixture. This step not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that the chicken remains moist during the slow cooking process. An even layer of olive oil will help marry all those wonderful flavors together as they simmer away. Step 6: Cook Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). As it cooks, allow the allure of the aromas to fill your home, creating a comforting atmosphere that everyone will appreciate. Step 7: Finishing Touches Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks if you prefer a pulled texture or serve it whole for a more rustic approach. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. The final touch not only brightens your dish but also enhances its overall appeal, inviting everyone to dig in! Storage Tips for Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to retain moisture and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken and butternut squash in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the microwave or stovetop until warmed through. If the sauce thickens, add a splash of chicken broth for creaminess. Make-Ahead: Consider preparing ingredients a day in advance; combine them in the crockpot when ready to cook for a quick and wholesome meal. What to Serve with Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash Add a touch of comfort to your dinner table with these perfect pairings that enhance this easy, slow-cooked dish. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their rich texture absorbs the delectable sauce, making every bite a comforting experience. Garlic Bread: The buttery, toasted goodness of garlic bread complements the savory chicken beautifully, ideal for sopping up that flavorful sauce. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These nutty, caramelized veggies add a delightful crunch and bring out the dish’s sweetness, creating a well-rounded meal. Steamed Green Beans: Fresh and crisp, green beans provide an excellent contrast, brightening the plate with color and flavor. Quinoa Salad: Packed with nutrients, a zesty quinoa salad introduces a refreshing bite, balancing the dish’s richness with earthy garnishes. Apple Crisp: For dessert, an easy apple crisp served warm delivers a sweet finale, echoing the dish’s maple notes for a unified dining experience. By thoughtfully selecting these side dishes, your Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken with Butternut Squash will shine even brighter on the table! Expert Tips for Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken Stay Moist: Ensure the chicken is fully submerged in the sauce to prevent dryness, resulting in tender, flavorful meat. Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to verify doneness. Perfectly cooked chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Thicken Sauce: For a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This lets steam escape while concentrating the flavors of your Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken. Experiment with Veggies: Don’t hesitate to customize with extra veggies like carrots or bell peppers; this not only adds flavor but also boosts nutrition and color. Make Ahead: Prep all ingredients the day before, then just combine and cook on the day of serving for a stress-free mealtime. Make Ahead Options These Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken with Butternut Squash is an excellent choice for meal prep! You can chop the butternut squash and prepare the chicken by seasoning it and placing it in the crockpot up to 24 hours in advance. Simply layer the chicken and squash in the crockpot, whisk together your sauce, and refrigerate all components separately until you’re ready to cook. This method helps to keep the chicken moist and prevents the butternut squash from becoming mushy. When you’re ready to serve, combine everything into the crockpot and cook as directed. You’ll enjoy a delicious, stress-free meal with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights! Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken Variations Feel free to make this recipe your own by exploring these exciting variations! Flavor Boost: Incorporate Sriracha for a spicy kick and balance the flavors with an extra drizzle of maple syrup. Herb Swap: Try Fresh Basil in place of thyme for a fragrant twist; it adds a refreshing touch to the dish. Veggie Medley: Add Carrots and Bell Peppers for additional color and nutrition; they’ll cook down beautifully, enhancing the meal’s texture. Gluten-Free: Ensure the dijon mustard is gluten-free, and swap chicken broth for a low-sodium, gluten-free alternative. Citrus Zing: Squeeze in Fresh Lemon Juice before serving for a bright finish that elevates the dish with a delightful tang. Creamy Comfort: Stir in a dollop of Cream Cheese or Coconut Cream during the final cooking phase for a rich, creamy sauce. Alternative Proteins: Swap the chicken for Tofu or Tempeh to create a delicious plant-based version that suits vegan diets. Sweet Potato Substitute: Use Sweet Potatoes instead of butternut squash for a different flavor profile—sweet and absolutely comforting! Looking to add even more culinary inspiration to your weeknight dinners? Don’t forget to explore my tasty Honey Pepper Chicken or my cozy Squash Casserole Delightful! Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash Recipe FAQs What can I substitute for butternut squash? Absolutely! If butternut squash isn’t your favorite or you want to try something different, sweet potatoes and carrots make excellent substitutes. Both options maintain the dish’s sweetness while enhancing its nutritional profile. How should I store leftovers from this recipe? For optimal freshness, store any remaining Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken with Butternut Squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat it again, simply reheat, and you’ll feel like you’re enjoying a fresh meal! Can I freeze this dish? If so, how? Yes! To freeze your Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken with Butternut Squash, allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Make sure to use an airtight seal to prevent freezer burn. This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. How do I ensure my chicken stays juicy while cooking? To maintain juicy chicken, it’s crucial to ensure that your chicken breasts are fully submerged in the sauce before cooking. This helps retain moisture and flavor. Additionally, using a meat thermometer can guide you; the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfect doneness. Are there any dietary concerns with this recipe? This Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken with Butternut Squash is generally family-friendly, but if you’re serving picky eaters or those with specific dietary needs, you may want to watch out for allergies to mustard or chicken. For a vegetarian twist, consider swapping the chicken for chickpeas or tofu and using vegetable broth instead, which still maintains the dish’s delightful flavor. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe? Very! This recipe is wonderfully versatile, so feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. Just chop them into similar-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly alongside the chicken and squash. Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash Bliss Experience the comforting flavors of Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash for a wholesome weeknight dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 5 hours hrsTotal Time 5 hours hrs 15 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken2 pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken BreastsFor the Squash1 pound Butternut Squash CubedFor the Sauce1/2 cup Maple Syrup Honey or agave syrup can be used as alternatives.1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Use whole grain mustard for a different texture.1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic for stronger taste if preferred.1 teaspoon Onion Powder Chopped fresh onion as a substitute.1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Rosemary or oregano can be used instead.1 teaspoon Salt Omit for a low-sodium version.1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper White pepper can be used for a milder taste.1 cup Chicken Broth Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.For Cooking1 tablespoon Olive Oil Can be replaced with avocado oil or omitted.For Garnish1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Optional, cilantro is an alternative. Equipment Crockpot Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPlace the boneless skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot.Layer the cubed butternut squash on top of the chicken.In a mixing bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and chicken broth.Drizzle the sauce evenly over the chicken and squash in the crockpot.Lightly drizzle olive oil over the top of the mixture.Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.Once cooked, shred the chicken or serve it whole and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 40gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 350IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg NotesCustomize with seasonal veggies or serve alongside mashed potatoes for extra comfort. Prep all ingredients the day before for a stress-free mealtime. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
