This cozy stew brings together tender chicken and sweet butternut squash, all cooked low and slow for a warm meal. It’s perfect for chilly evenings!
It practically makes itself! I love how the flavors blend together while I relax. Serve it with some crusty bread, and you’ve got a heartwarming dinner ready to enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butternut Squash: The star of this stew, butternut squash adds sweetness and creaminess. If you can’t find it, pumpkin or sweet potatoes could work as great substitutes.
Chicken: I prefer chicken thighs for their juiciness, but chicken breasts are perfectly fine too. For a leaner option, you could use turkey meat.
Quinoa: Quinoa adds texture and protein. If you’re gluten-free, this is a perfect choice. If you can’t find it, you can swap in rice or even lentils, but adjust cook times accordingly.
Spices: Ground cumin and smoked paprika make this dish special. If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika with a pinch of cayenne can add a nice kick!
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from A Slow Cooker Stew?
The key to great flavor in this stew is layering your ingredients thoughtfully. Starting with sautéing onion and garlic can really enhance the taste. If you’re throwing everything in raw, try adding spices at the beginning to help them bloom in the heat.
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
- Keep the lid closed during cooking to retain moisture and heat.
- Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust seasoning at the end; this is crucial for a well-balanced dish.
With these tips in mind, your stew will turn out flavorful and comforting every time! Enjoy making it in your slow cooker!
Slow Cooker Chicken & Butternut Squash Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes (about 4 cups)
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for sautéing)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This stew takes about 15 minutes of prep time and cooks for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker. Perfect for a busy day when you want a satisfying meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Aromatics (Optional):
If you’d like to boost the flavor, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3-4 minutes. This step is entirely optional, but it adds a wonderful depth to the stew.
2. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
In your slow cooker, add the butternut squash cubes, chicken pieces, sautéed onion and garlic (or skip this step and add them raw), diced red bell pepper, rinsed quinoa, diced tomatoes with their juices, and the chicken broth.
3. Add Seasonings:
Sprinkle in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground cinnamon, and season with salt and pepper. Gently stir everything to combine well, ensuring each ingredient is coated with those lovely spices.
4. Cooking the Stew:
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know the stew is ready when the chicken is cooked through and the butternut squash is tender enough to easily pierce with a fork.
5. Final Touches:
Before serving, taste the stew and add more salt and pepper if necessary. Don’t skip this step—seasoning is important for bringing all the flavors together!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for a lovely touch. This stew is also wonderful served with crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
Now, let yourself enjoy the comforting blend of sweet butternut squash, tender chicken, and aromatic spices. Happy cooking!
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Can I Use Other Types of Squash?
Absolutely! If you can’t find butternut squash, you can substitute it with acorn squash or pumpkin. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the size and type of squash used.
How Do I Store Leftover Stew?
Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it appears too thick.
Can I Freeze This Stew?
Yes, this stew freezes beautifully! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Can I Serve with This Stew?
This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or quinoa. You can also serve it with a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal!
