If your looking for a cozy dish to warm you up, you’re in for a treat with this Butternut Squash and Chicken Stew with Quinoa! It’s like a big hug in a bowl, filled with tender chicken, sweet squash, and hearty quinoa. I can’t wait to share how easy it is to whip up this tasty meal that’s perfect for chilly nights. Ready to dive into some comfort food? Let’s do this!

Cook Time: 35

Prep Time: 30

Yields: 6

Calories: 353

Simple Ingredients for Delicious Butternut Squash and Chicken Stew with Quinoa

When it comes to cozy, flavorful meals, nothing quite beats a hearty stew.This Butternut Squash and Chicken Stew with Quinoa is not only comforting but also packed with nutritious ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish:

1 pound chicken tenderloins – These juicy cuts will make your stew delicious and tender.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – This will help thicken the stew and create a lovely texture.
1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the ingredients,adding a rich flavour.
1 clove garlic,minced – Because garlic makes everything better!
1 onion,diced – A classic base for delicious stews.
½ cup diced red bell pepper – For a pop of color and sweetness.
2 links precooked apple chicken sausage, sliced – This adds a fun twist and extra flavor.
3 cups chicken stock – You can use homemade or store-bought for convenience.
1 tablespoon minced fresh tarragon – For a subtle, herby aroma.
½ teaspoon rubbed sage – It complements the squash beautifully.
½ teaspoon garam masala – For a unique, warm spice blend.
2 cups butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed – The star of this dish, adding sweetness and creaminess.
1 cup diced carrots – More veggies for nutrition and sweetness.
2 celery ribs, chopped – This adds crunch and flavor.
1 apple, peeled, cored, and diced – Bring in a hint of natural sweetness.
1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained – A fantastic grain that makes this stew filling.
1 tablespoon butter – To finish off the stew with a rich flavor.

These ingredients come together to create a delightful stew that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying on a chilly evening.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Cook Butternut Squash and Chicken Stew

Ready to whip up this comforting Butternut Squash and Chicken Stew with Quinoa? Let’s dive right into the cooking process. Follow these simple steps for a delicious result:

Prep the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken tenderloins with salt and black pepper. Then, coat them lightly in flour.This will help achieve a golden crust when you cook them.

Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5 minutes on each side until browned.Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Cook the Aromatics: Lower the heat to medium-low. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic, diced onion, red bell pepper, and sliced apple chicken sausage. Cook for around 2 minutes, stirring frequently until the onion is fragrant and translucent.

Deglaze the Pan: pour in ½ cup of chicken stock and scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. This will add flavor to your stew!

Add Herbs and Spices: Stir in the tarragon, sage, and garam masala. Allow these to simmer together for another 2 minutes.

Combine ingredients: Slice the cooked chicken into 1-inch pieces and return them to the skillet. Add the remaining chicken stock, along with the butternut squash, carrots, celery, and apple. Cover the pan and bring everything to a boil.

Cook the Quinoa: Once boiling, push the ingredients to the sides of the skillet.Add the quinoa in the centre. Cover and let it simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes until the veggies are tender, and the quinoa is fluffy.

Finish It Off: Stir in butter to create a creamy consistency and let the stew thicken for another 3 to 5 minutes. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.

And there you have it! A warm, hearty stew that’s sure to please.Enjoy it with a piece of crusty bread or perhaps a warm biscuit for a complete meal.

stovetop butternut squash and chicken stew with quinoa

Serving and Storage Tips for Butternut Squash and Chicken Stew with Quinoa

Once your Butternut Squash and Chicken Stew with quinoa is ready, it’s time to think about serving it up perfectly. This stew is delightful on its own,but you can enhance the experience by pairing it with some warm crusty bread or biscuits. The combination of textures and flavors makes a satisfying meal, especially on chilly days.

When it comes to serving size, this recipe yields about 6 servings, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead. I love to make a big batch and enjoy the leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Storage Data:

If you have any leftovers (which is rare with this dish!), they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your stew, just reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If the stew has thickened in the fridge,feel free to add a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen it up.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stew. Just let it cool wholly before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will stay fresh for about 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat as mentioned above.

Recipe Notes and troubleshooting for Perfect Stew

To make the best Butternut Squash and Chicken Stew with Quinoa, here are a few extra tips and notes that might help along the way:

Choosing your Chicken: I recommend using boneless chicken tenderloins for this stew, but you can also substitute with chicken thighs for added flavor and juiciness. Just make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F when cooked.

Adjusting Thickness: If your stew turns out too thick, add a bit more chicken stock or water to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes to allow excess liquid to evaporate.

Spice Levels: For a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. The balance of spices is flexible,so adjust according to your taste.

Vegetarian Option: want to make this stew vegetarian? Swap the chicken for canned chickpeas or vegetable protein and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.

Herb Substitutions: If you can’t find tarragon, fresh thyme or rosemary make great alternatives that still bring in those warm flavors.

Following these notes will help you troubleshoot common issues and customize the stew to your liking. Enjoy your cooking adventure—this satisfying stew is bound to warm both your heart and home!