Chicken and Butternut Squash Risotto Recipe Made Easy

Risotto is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, indulgent, and endlessly versatile. When paired with tender pieces of chicken and the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash, this dish elevates to a perfect autumn or winter meal.

The combination of earthy, slightly nutty butternut squash and succulent chicken with the creamy, starchy risotto rice creates a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds and warm your soul.

Whether you’re cooking a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this chicken and butternut squash risotto recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that balances healthiness and decadence in every bite.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for all skill levels. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients and vibrant colors, making it just as beautiful as it is delicious.

Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot on your dinner table soon!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken and butternut squash risotto is a harmonious blend of protein, vegetables, and creamy carbs that satisfies hunger and comforts the soul. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

• Perfect balance of flavors: The lightly caramelized butternut squash adds a subtle sweetness that complements the savory chicken and aromatic herbs.
• One-pot meal: Everything cooks in one pan, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor as the ingredients meld together.
• Customizable: You can easily swap chicken for mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian twist, or add your favorite herbs and spices.
• Nutritious and filling: Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich squash, and satisfying arborio rice, this meal supports sustained energy.
• Impressively creamy: The slow addition of broth and stirring releases the starch in the rice, creating the luxurious, velvety texture risotto is known for.

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 cups diced)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 ½ cups Arborio rice
• ½ cup dry white wine (optional but recommended)
• 4-5 cups chicken broth (kept warm)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme or sage leaves (optional for garnish)

Equipment

• Large sauté pan or skillet with high sides
• Medium saucepan (to warm the broth)
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater (for Parmesan cheese)

Instructions

1. Prepare the squash: Peel the butternut squash, remove seeds, and cut into 1-inch cubes. Toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway, until tender and caramelized. Set aside.
2. Cook the chicken: In your sauté pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
3. Sauté aromatics: In the same pan, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add Arborio rice: Pour the rice into the pan with onions and garlic. Stir continuously for 2-3 minutes until the rice is lightly toasted and translucent around the edges.
5. Deglaze with wine: Pour in the white wine and stir until it is mostly absorbed by the rice. This step adds depth but can be skipped if you prefer.
6. Begin adding broth: Reduce heat to medium-low. Add ½ cup of warm chicken broth to the rice mixture, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is almost fully absorbed before adding the next ½ cup. Repeat this process, adding broth slowly and stirring, for about 18-20 minutes until the rice is creamy and al dente.
7. Combine ingredients: When the rice is nearly done, gently fold in the roasted butternut squash and cooked chicken. Stir carefully to avoid breaking up the squash.
8. Finish with butter and cheese: Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese until melted and fully combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
9. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh thyme or sage over the risotto before serving for a fragrant, fresh note.

Tips & Variations

For the creamiest risotto, patience is key—add broth gradually and stir often to release the rice’s starch.

• Vegetarian option: Substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms or firm tofu for a hearty, meat-free meal.
• Add greens: Stir in fresh spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrition and color.
• Use vegetable broth: For a lighter or vegetarian version, swap chicken broth with vegetable broth.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika when sautéing onions for a subtle heat.
• Boost flavor: Toast some pine nuts or walnuts and sprinkle on top for added crunch and nuttiness.

Nutrition Facts

*DV = Daily Value based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Serving Suggestions

This chicken and butternut squash risotto pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to brighten the meal. For added texture, a crisp garlic bread or toasted baguette slices are excellent companions.

If you’re looking to round out the dinner, steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts complement the creamy risotto with their fresh, crisp bite. For a cozy, complete meal, serve with a glass of dry white wine, echoing the wine used in cooking for a harmonious dining experience.

For more cozy and delicious recipes, explore our Baked Chicken and Veggies Recipe Copper Pan Delight and All Recipes Chicken Rice and Vegetable Soup Ideas.

Conclusion

This chicken and butternut squash risotto recipe is a wonderful way to celebrate seasonal flavors while enjoying a comforting and satisfying meal. Its creamy texture, balanced with the natural sweetness of butternut squash and the savory notes of tender chicken, makes it perfect for family dinners or special occasions alike.

Whether you’re new to risotto or a seasoned cook, this recipe’s approachable steps and wholesome ingredients ensure success every time. Plus, the versatility allows you to tailor the dish to your preferences, making it a staple in your cooking repertoire.

Give it a try and savor the cozy, rich flavors that make risotto one of the most beloved dishes worldwide.

For more delicious recipes that bring warmth and flavor to your kitchen, be sure to check out Vegan Dinners Recipes for Easy and Delicious Meals and Best Chicken Broccoli Vegetable Soup Instant Pot Recipes.

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