Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake – The Ultimate One-Pan Dinner

Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake – The Ultimate One-Pan Dinner is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of tender chicken, sweet butternut squash, and fragrant leeks. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or meal prep, offering a comforting combination that warms the heart. With its creamy sauce and cheesy topping, this dish stands out as a nourishing option that pleases everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The blend of chicken, leeks, and butternut squash creates a rich, savory taste that’s hard to resist.
• Easy One-Pan Meal: Simplify your cooking process with this one-pan recipe that minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor.
• Versatile Ingredients: Perfect for any season, this dish uses seasonal ingredients making it suitable year-round.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this creamy bake, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make ahead of time, store in the fridge, and simply reheat for a quick weeknight dinner.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential kitchen tools to make preparation swift and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Baking dish
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing ingredients evenly and allowing flavors to develop before baking.
• Baking Dish: Provides a perfect vessel for baking the chicken leek and butternut squash bake until bubbly and golden.
• Knife: A good knife ensures precise chopping of vegetables, making prep easier and faster.
• Cutting Board: A stable surface for cutting veggies safely prevents accidents in the kitchen.

Ingredients

To create your Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake – The Ultimate One-Pan Dinner, gather the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 2 large leeks, cleaned and sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp thyme (fresh or dried)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Creamy Sauce Ingredients

• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or crème fraîche
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

Topping (Optional)

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
• Cooking spray or butter for greasing

How to Make Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake – The Ultimate One-Pan Dinner

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

• Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Add the diced chicken breast. Season with salt and pepper.
• Cook until no longer pink. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Leeks

• In the same skillet, add the sliced leeks.
• Sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften.
• Add minced garlic and thyme. Cook for an additional minute.

Step 4: Add Butternut Squash

• Incorporate the cubed butternut squash into the skillet.
• Cook for another 5 minutes until slightly golden.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

• Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with vegetables.
• Stir in chicken broth, cream or crème fraîche, nutmeg, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
• Simmer everything together for 2–3 minutes to meld flavors.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Transfer all contents from the skillet into your prepared baking dish.
Top with remaining Parmesan cheese and optional breadcrumbs.

Step 7: Bake It!

Bake in your preheated oven for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly on top.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Let rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your comforting Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake!

How to Serve Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake – The Ultimate One-Pan Dinner

Serving Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake is a delightful experience, as its comforting flavors and creamy texture make it perfect for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Use a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme on top before serving for an extra pop of flavor and color.

Accompanied by a Green Salad

• Pair with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the bake.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce.

Topped with a Dollop of Sour Cream

• Add a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for added creaminess and tang.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Complement the dish with seasonal roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal.

Drizzled with Balsamic Reduction

• A drizzle of balsamic reduction can add sweetness and acidity, enhancing the flavors.

How to Perfect Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake – The Ultimate One-Pan Dinner

To ensure your Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use high-quality chicken: Fresh, high-quality chicken helps enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Season well: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; they are essential for bringing out the flavors in your ingredients.
• Cook leeks slowly: Allow leeks to sauté gently until softened; this draws out their natural sweetness.
• Adjust seasoning after cooking: Taste before serving; you may want to adjust the salt or pepper after baking.
• Let it rest: Allowing the bake to sit for 5 minutes before serving helps the flavors meld together.
• Experiment with cheeses: Try different cheese options like cheddar or gouda if you want a unique twist on flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake – The Ultimate One-Pan Dinner

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Provides a bright green contrast and adds nutrients while being easy to prepare.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the bake’s flavors beautifully.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with veggies adds freshness and is packed with protein.
4. Couscous with Herbs: Fluffy couscous mixed with fresh herbs offers a light, aromatic side that pairs well.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts add texture and depth to your meal.
6. Carrot Sticks with Hummus: A crunchy, healthy snack that adds variety without overwhelming the main dish.
7. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings seasonal flair to your plate, especially during summer months.
8. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that is versatile and can be seasoned to match your dish perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Overcooking the chicken – Ensure you cook the chicken just until it’s no longer pink. Overcooking can dry it out, leaving you with tough meat.
• Neglecting the leeks – Always clean leeks thoroughly before slicing as they can harbor dirt. Sauté them until soft for the best flavor.
• Skipping seasoning – Don’t forget to season each layer of the dish. Adding salt and pepper at different stages enhances the overall taste.
• Ignoring cooking times – Keep an eye on your bake in the oven. Overbaking can lead to a dry dish, while underbaking may leave ingredients raw.
• Not allowing to rest – Letting the dish rest for a few minutes after baking allows flavors to settle and makes serving easier.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake – The Ultimate One-Pan Dinner

• To freeze, let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake – The Ultimate One-Pan Dinner

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave – Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake:

Can I use other vegetables in Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake?

Yes! Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like carrots or spinach for added nutrition.

How do I make Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake healthier?

You can use low-fat cream alternatives or reduce cheese for fewer calories while still enjoying great flavor.

What can I serve with Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

How long does it take to make Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake?

From prep to table, expect about 50 minutes total time.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake is not just a comforting meal; it’s also versatile. You can customize it with various vegetables or spices based on your preferences. Try this recipe for a delicious family dinner that’s sure to please everyone!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake – The Ultimate One-Pan Dinner

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake is the ultimate one-pan dinner that combines tender chicken, sweet butternut squash, and aromatic leeks into a comforting dish your family will love. This creamy bake is perfect for weeknight meals or cozy family gatherings, offering a nourishing alternative that pleases all palates. With its rich flavors topped with a golden cheese crust, it’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that warms the heart and fills the table with joy.

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Ingredients

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• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 2 large leeks, cleaned and sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp thyme (fresh or dried)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or crème fraîche
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until no longer pink. Set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté sliced leeks for about 5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and thyme; cook for another minute.
4. Stir in cubed butternut squash and cook for another 5 minutes.
5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Mix in chicken broth, cream or crème fraîche, nutmeg, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
6. Transfer everything to a baking dish, top with remaining Parmesan cheese and optional breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 85mg