Description
Honey roasted butternut squash elevates weeknight dinners with its irresistible blend of caramelized sweetness and tender chicken. Comfort meets sophistication in this simple yet elegant dish that promises to delight your palate with each delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 medium butternut squash, halved and seeds removed
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie works well)
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- ¼ cup chicken broth or stock
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Optional Add-ins:
- ¼ cup dried cranberries or raisins
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Drizzle of honey
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400F (200C) and halve the butternut squash lengthwise, meticulously scooping out the seeds with a spoon to create a clean cavity.
- Massage the squash interior with olive oil, then generously dust with ground cinnamon, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to enhance its natural flavors.
- Position the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet, then roast for 35-40 minutes until the flesh becomes tender and easily yields to a fork’s gentle pressure.
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium temperature and season the chicken breasts with a harmonious blend of salt, pepper, and a whisper of cinnamon.
- Cook the chicken thoroughly, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165F (75C), which typically takes 6-7 minutes per side.
- After cooking, allow the chicken to rest briefly before transforming it into delicate shreds using two forks.
- Once the squash emerges from the oven, carefully excavate a central portion of the flesh, creating a cozy nest for the chicken while maintaining a protective squash border.
- Nestle the shredded chicken into the squash cavities and drizzle with honey, introducing a luxurious sweet dimension to the dish.
- Optional: Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves for an aromatic garnish that elevates the overall sensory experience.
- Return the stuffed squash to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to intertwine and intensify.
- Plate the dish as a standalone main course, complemented beautifully by a crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables.
Notes
- Choose firm, heavy butternut squash with no soft spots or blemishes for the best roasting results.
- Shred chicken while it’s still warm to make the process easier and prevent the meat from drying out.
- Adjust honey drizzle based on personal sweetness preference, using less for a more savory profile.
- Experiment with alternative protein options like pulled pork, turkey, or plant-based alternatives for dietary flexibility.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg