Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash

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This Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash is one of those recipes that brings warmth to the table without requiring much effort from me. The sweetness of the maple syrup, the tang of Dijon mustard, and the earthy notes from butternut squash all come together in the slow cooker to create something that’s both nourishing and comforting. I love prepping this in the morning and coming home to a meal that smells like I’ve been cooking all day.

The flavors in this dish are deeply satisfying, especially on a chilly day. The chicken stays tender and juicy while soaking up that maple-Dijon glaze, and the butternut squash gets wonderfully soft and caramelized around the edges. It’s a recipe I keep returning to—not only for its taste but for how incredibly easy it is to prepare. If you’re looking for something simple that still feels a bit special, this one’s a winner.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory. The slow cooker does all the work, making it ideal for busy days when you want something hearty without hovering over the stove. Plus, it uses wholesome ingredients you probably already have.

• No-fuss crockpot cooking
• Sweet, savory, and herby flavor profile
• Healthy and satisfying
• Perfect for meal prep or weeknight dinners
• A great way to use up seasonal squash

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

I prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they cook evenly and stay tender in the slow cooker. However, boneless chicken thighs would also work great if you want even juicier results and a little more flavor. Just trim any excess fat to avoid greasiness.

Options for Substitutions

• Maple Syrup: You can use honey instead, though it will have a slightly different flavor.
• Dijon Mustard: Stone-ground mustard is a good alternative, though spicier mustards may change the flavor profile.
• Butternut Squash: Try sweet potatoes or acorn squash if butternut isn’t available.
• Herbs: Fresh thyme is wonderful, but dried thyme or rosemary also work well.
• Chicken: Bone-in pieces are fine too, just extend the cook time slightly and watch for doneness.

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Ingredients for This Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless, these are lean and soak up the maple Dijon flavors beautifully.
• Butternut Squash: Adds a natural sweetness and hearty texture that complements the savory chicken.
• Maple Syrup: Provides a subtle, rich sweetness that balances the tangy mustard.
• Dijon Mustard: The star ingredient for depth and a bit of sharp, savory zing.
• Garlic: Minced garlic adds aromatic flavor that infuses through the dish during slow cooking.
• Chicken Broth: Keeps everything moist and helps blend all the flavors together.
• Olive Oil: Used for searing the chicken first, adding richness and better texture.
• Fresh Thyme: Offers a woodsy, herby aroma that enhances both the chicken and the squash.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the sweet and tangy elements.

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Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. For extra depth, you can lightly sear them in a skillet with olive oil until golden brown on each side before placing them in the slow cooker.

Step 2: Peel and Cube the Butternut Squash

Peel your butternut squash, scoop out the seeds, and cut it into roughly 1-inch cubes. Place the cubes in the bottom of the crockpot to act as a flavorful base for the chicken.

Step 3: Make the Maple Dijon Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and chicken broth until well combined. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Step 4: Layer the Crockpot

Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the butternut squash in the slow cooker. Pour the maple Dijon mixture evenly over the top, making sure the sauce touches both chicken and squash.

Step 5: Add Herbs

Scatter a few sprigs of fresh thyme on top. These will infuse the dish with herbal flavor as it cooks.

Step 6: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender, and the butternut squash should be soft but not mushy.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove thyme sprigs and serve the chicken and squash together with a drizzle of the sauce from the crockpot. You can garnish with fresh thyme leaves for a pop of green and extra aroma.

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How Long to Prepare the Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash

Prep Time: Preparing the ingredients for this dish takes about 15 to 20 minutes. That includes peeling and cubing the butternut squash, seasoning the chicken, and mixing up the maple Dijon sauce. If you choose to sear the chicken before slow cooking, add another 5–7 minutes.

Cook Time: Once everything is in the crockpot, set it and forget it. On LOW, it takes about 5 to 6 hours. On HIGH, it’s ready in 3 to 4 hours. This hands-off cooking time makes it perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends.

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Tips for Perfect Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash

• Use fresh butternut squash for the best texture. Frozen squash can become too soft.
• Lightly browning the chicken beforehand adds extra flavor and better texture.
• Don’t skip the thyme—it brings balance to the sweet and tangy sauce.
• Stir the sauce before pouring to make sure the flavors are evenly distributed.
• Check the chicken’s internal temp to ensure it reaches at least 165°F (75°C).

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the squash: Cut it into uniform cubes to avoid mushy or undercooked pieces.
• Too much liquid: If your chicken or squash releases a lot of water, remove the lid in the last 30 minutes to thicken the sauce.
• Undermixing the sauce: Make sure maple syrup, mustard, and broth are thoroughly combined.
• Overcrowding the pot: Don’t stack too many chicken pieces on top of each other—they should be in a single layer for even cooking.
• Not seasoning enough: Taste and season before starting the slow cook, especially the sauce.

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What to Serve With Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash?

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy and smooth, these pair beautifully with the sweet and tangy sauce.

2. Steamed Green Beans

A light veggie side that adds color and freshness.

3. Wild Rice

Nutty and hearty, wild rice complements the earthy squash and rich sauce.

4. Simple Mixed Greens Salad

Balance the warm dish with a crisp salad dressed in vinaigrette.

5. Crusty Bread

Perfect for soaking up the flavorful juices at the bottom of the crockpot.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Let leftovers cool completely before storing. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Freezing: This dish freezes well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating Tips: Reheat covered in the oven at 300°F or in the microwave on medium power to avoid drying out the chicken.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 340
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Sugars: 9g
• Fiber: 3g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Cholesterol: 85mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Check with a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.

Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Yes, but it may become very soft during cooking. Fresh is preferred for best texture.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can try substituting the chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?

Yes, though it will require more attention. Simmer everything in a covered pot for about 45 minutes until tender.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just double-check your chicken broth and Dijon mustard to ensure they’re certified gluten-free.

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Conclusion

Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash is the kind of meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen—when in reality, your slow cooker did the heavy lifting. It’s a cozy, balanced dish full of comforting flavors and wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a flavorful, satisfying choice you’ll want to make again and again.

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