Description
A deliciously balanced recipe combining the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with tender, spiced chicken breast, all brought together with a touch of honey and savory spices. This dish offers a perfect harmony of sweet and savory flavors in a wholesome, hearty meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Butternut Squash
- 1 medium-sized butternut squash
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (divided)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Fresh thyme (optional for garnish)
Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking chicken)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the butternut squash.
- Prepare and Roast Butternut Squash: Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Drizzle the halves with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with cinnamon, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Place the squash cut side down on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork.
- Cook the Chicken: While the squash roasts, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a teaspoon of cinnamon. Cook the chicken for about 6 to 7 minutes per side or until fully cooked through. Remove from heat and shred the chicken using two forks.
- Stuff the Squash: Once the butternut squash is tender, scoop out some flesh to create a cavity for the stuffing. Mix the scooped flesh with the shredded chicken if desired, then stuff it back into the squash halves. Drizzle honey over the stuffed squash and garnish with fresh thyme if using.
- Final Bake: Return the stuffed squash halves to the oven and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the honey to slightly caramelize. Remove from oven and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the filling before the final bake.
- If you prefer a spicy kick, sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper on the chicken while cooking.
- Fresh thyme is optional but adds a lovely herbal aroma to the dish.
- Ensure the butternut squash is fully tender before stuffing to have a creamy texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
