Name: Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs (675g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated; 1 cup butternut squash puree (store-bought or homemade); 1 cup full-fat coconut milk; 0.5 cup tomato puree; 2 tbsp butter; 2 tsp garam masala; 1 tsp turmeric; 1 tsp cumin powder; 1 tsp coriander powder; 0.5 tsp chili powder; Salt and pepper, to taste

Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken – doesn’t that just roll off the tongue and promise a symphony of flavors? I am absolutely thrilled to share with you a recipe that takes a beloved classic and infuses it with a delightful, seasonal twist. Imagine the iconic, comforting embrace of traditional Indian butter chicken, renowned for its tender chicken simmered in a rich, tomato-based sauce, often enjoyed globally for its luxurious texture and aromatic spices. Originating from Delhi, this dish has captivated palates for decades.

Now, let’s talk about the magic ingredient we’re introducing: vibrant butternut squash. This addition isn’t just about color; it transforms the dish entirely, lending an incredible natural sweetness and an extra layer of velvety smoothness to the sauce. It’s a brilliant way to enhance the creamy texture you love, often allowing for a lighter touch on dairy while still achieving that indulgent mouthfeel. People adore this adaptation because it marries the familiar, deeply satisfying flavors of classic butter chicken with the wholesome goodness and subtle sweetness of autumn’s bounty, making every bite a comforting revelation. This particular Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken is designed to be both incredibly flavorful and surprisingly approachable, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade:
- 600-700g boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1.5-inch pieces (I prefer thighs for their tenderness!)
- 1/2 cup plain full-fat yogurt (Greek yogurt works wonderfully for extra creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste (or 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger + 1 tbsp minced fresh garlic)
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (Kashmiri chili powder for color without too much heat, or regular for a kick!)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

For the Butternut Squash Puree:
- 1 medium butternut squash (approx. 1.5-2 lbs), peeled, deseeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (I’m generous with my butter!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1.5 teaspoons red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1.5 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1.5 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder (optional, but oh so fragrant!)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can crushed tomatoes or 1.5 cups fresh tomato puree
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium is best)
- The prepared butternut squash puree (from above)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option
- 2 tablespoons kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves), crushed between your palms
- 1 teaspoon sugar (or to taste, helps balance acidity)
- Salt to taste (start with 1 teaspoon and adjust)
For Garnish (Optional, but highly recommended!):
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- A swirl of heavy cream or yogurt
- Naan bread or basmati rice for serving

Preparing the Butternut Squash Puree

This is a fantastic step to get ahead, and it truly elevates our “Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken” to another level by adding natural sweetness and body. I love roasting the squash for a deeper, more caramelized flavor, but you can also boil or steam it if you’re short on time.

Preheat Oven and Prep Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lay out your peeled, deseeded, and cubed butternut squash on a baking sheet. I like to spread it in a single layer to ensure even roasting.

Season and Roast: Drizzle the squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Toss gently to coat all the cubes evenly. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender and slightly caramelized at the edges. This caramelization is key for that rich flavor!
Cool and Puree: Once roasted, let the butternut squash cool for about 5-10 minutes. Carefully transfer the softened squash to a blender or food processor. Add about 1/4 cup of water or chicken broth to help it blend smoothly. Blend until you achieve a completely smooth, silky puree. You might need to scrape down the sides a few times. If it’s too thick, add a tiny bit more liquid, a tablespoon at a time, until it’s perfectly smooth. Set this glorious puree aside; it’s going to be the secret star of our “Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken.”

Marinating the Chicken

Marination is non-negotiable for tender, flavorful butter chicken. It allows the spices and yogurt to penetrate the chicken, resulting in incredibly juicy pieces. Plan for at least 30 minutes, but ideally, let it sit for a few hours or even overnight in the fridge – it’s worth it!

Combine Marinade Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients listed under “For the Chicken Marinade”: yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, red chili powder, cumin, garam masala, salt, and lemon juice. Give it a good whisk until everything is well combined and forms a thick, aromatic paste.
Add Chicken: Add your cut chicken pieces to the marinade. Using your hands (my preferred method, just make sure they’re clean!), toss the chicken thoroughly, ensuring every piece is generously coated. You want that marinade to cling to every nook and cranny.

Marinate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor and tenderness, aim for 2-4 hours, or even up to 12 hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavor it absorbs, truly enhancing our “Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken.”

Building the Flavorful Sauce Base

Now, this is where the magic truly happens! We’re going to layer flavors that will eventually become the rich, aromatic sauce for our “Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken.” Don’t rush this step, as developing the spice base properly is essential for a restaurant-quality taste.

Sear the Chicken: In a large heavy-bottomed pan or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. You might need to do this in two batches. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until beautifully browned and slightly charred. This browning adds an incredible depth of flavor. The chicken won’t be cooked through at this point, and that’s perfectly fine. Remove the seared chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Sauté Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the same pan. Once melted, add the finely chopped yellow onion. Sauté the onion gently for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes very soft, translucent, and just beginning to turn golden brown. Don’t rush this; properly caramelized onions are a sweet foundation for the sauce.
Add Ginger-Garlic Paste: Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it! The aroma that fills your kitchen at this point is just wonderful.

Toast the Spices: Reduce the heat to low. Now, it’s time for the ground spices: turmeric, red chili powder, cumin, coriander, garam masala, and cardamom powder (if using). Add them to the pan and stir constantly for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. This crucial step, known as “bhuno” in Indian cooking, toasts the spices, intensifying their flavors and aromas. Be very careful not to burn them; if they stick, add a tiny splash of water.
Incorporate Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes or fresh tomato puree. Stir well, bringing everything together. Increase the heat slightly to medium-low and let this mixture simmer gently for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the color deepen, and the oil will start to separate from the edges, indicating the tomatoes are cooked down and their raw flavor is gone. This concentrated tomato base is vital for our “Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken.”

Assembling and Finishing the Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken

We’re on the home stretch! This is where all our hard work comes together, creating a rich, creamy, and undeniably delicious “Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken” that will impress everyone.

Introduce the Butternut Squash Puree: Now, add the star of the show – our prepared butternut squash puree – to the pan. Stir it thoroughly into the tomato and spice base. The sauce will immediately become thicker and take on a beautiful, vibrant orange hue. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Add Chicken Broth and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth. Stir everything together until smooth. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes. This slow simmer allows the flavors to deepen and marry, and ensures our “Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken” is truly cohesive.

Blend for Smoothness (Optional but Recommended): For an extra silky-smooth sauce, carefully transfer the sauce (without the chicken, if you added it back too early) to a blender or use an immersion blender directly in the pot. Blend until absolutely smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids! Return the pureed sauce to the pan if you used a regular blender. This step ensures there are no onion or spice remnants, giving you that luxurious restaurant-style texture.
Return Chicken and Finish Cooking: Add the seared chicken pieces back into the sauce. Stir gently to coat the chicken completely. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for another 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and wonderfully tender. The chicken will absorb the incredible flavors of the “Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken” sauce during this time.
The Creamy Touch: Reduce the heat to its lowest setting. Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk if you’re going dairy-free). Do not boil the sauce after adding the cream, as it can curdle. Just heat it through gently until warmed.

The Secret Ingredient – Kasuri Methi: Crush the kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) between your palms to release their intense aroma, then stir them into the sauce. This ingredient provides an authentic, slightly bitter, and incredibly aromatic depth that is characteristic of butter chicken.
Season and Sweeten: Add the sugar and taste the sauce. Adjust salt as needed. The sugar helps to balance the acidity from the tomatoes and enhances the overall sweetness of the butternut squash. You might also want a tiny squeeze of lemon juice at this stage to brighten everything up.
Serve and Garnish: Your “Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken” is ready! Ladle it into bowls. Garnish generously with fresh chopped cilantro, and if you’re feeling extra indulgent, a final swirl of heavy cream or a dollop of fresh yogurt. Serve immediately with warm naan bread for dipping or fluffy basmati rice to soak up every last bit of that glorious sauce. This dish is truly a comforting and flavorful masterpiece!

Conclusion:

As we reach the end of our culinary journey together, I truly hope you’re feeling inspired and excited to bring the incredible flavors of this dish into your own kitchen. I know there are countless recipes out there, but I can confidently say that this particular iteration of Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken stands out as a true gem, a harmonious blend of classic comfort and innovative nutrition. It’s more than just another weeknight meal; it’s an experience that tantalizes the taste buds and warms the soul, proving that familiar favorites can always be elevated with a touch of creativity. What makes it a must-try, you ask? Well, imagine the signature richness of butter chicken, that beloved creamy, tomato-based sauce infused with aromatic spices, but then, picture it gracefully intertwined with the subtle sweetness and velvety texture of roasted butternut squash. This ingenious addition not only boosts the nutritional profile of the dish, packing in extra vitamins and fiber, but it also lends an unparalleled depth and creaminess that is simply irresistible, making the sauce even more luxurious without being overly heavy. It’s that perfect balance of indulgent and wholesome that truly sets it apart. The squash melts seamlessly into the sauce, creating a beautiful golden hue and an incredibly smooth consistency that coats every piece of tender chicken beautifully. It’s a dish that feels both comforting and surprisingly elegant, perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressive enough for guests.

I’ve made this dish countless times, and each time, it disappears from the table with rave reviews. The combination of succulent, marinated chicken, simmered to perfection in that glorious sauce, truly sings. It’s a symphony of flavors – the sweet, earthy notes of the squash, the vibrant tang of the tomatoes, the subtle heat of the ginger and chili, and the fragrant warmth of garam masala and fenugreek. This isn’t just butter chicken; it’s butter chicken reimagined, a dish that feels both familiar and excitingly new. It provides that ultimate comfort food experience but with an unexpected twist that will have everyone asking for your secret ingredient. Trust me when I say, the moment you taste that first spoonful, you’ll understand exactly why I’m so passionate about sharing this recipe with you. It’s a complete meal in itself, robust and satisfying, offering a delightful twist on a classic that will surely become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Serving Suggestions & Creative Variations:

While this Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken is utterly delicious on its own, pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate your dining experience even further. My personal favorite is serving it alongside a generous helping of fluffy basmati rice, which perfectly soaks up every last drop of that incredible sauce. Warm, freshly made naan bread, perhaps brushed with garlic butter, is another absolute winner – ideal for scooping up the tender chicken and the rich, creamy sauce. If you’re looking for lighter alternatives, consider quinoa, brown rice, or even some steamed cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. A simple side salad with a bright, citrusy vinaigrette can also provide a wonderful contrast to the richness of the curry. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness and a beautiful pop of color! For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, a few toasted cashews or slivered almonds can add a delightful textural element.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! This recipe is incredibly versatile and lends itself beautifully to various adaptations. If you’re not a fan of chicken, feel free to substitute it with other proteins. Cubes of paneer (Indian cheese) work wonderfully, absorbing the flavors of the sauce beautifully. You could also try firm tofu for a vegan-friendly option, or even lamb for a richer, more robust flavor. Want to sneak in more vegetables? Go for it! A handful of fresh spinach wilted in at the end, or some diced bell peppers and peas added during the last 10 minutes of cooking, would be fantastic. For those who like a little more heat, a finely chopped green chili or an extra pinch of cayenne pepper can be added to taste. If you prefer a dairy-free version, full-fat coconut milk can be used in place of heavy cream, offering a slightly different but equally delicious tropical twist to the sauce. Experiment with different spice levels, add a squeeze of lime juice at the end for brightness, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt for an extra tangy creaminess. The possibilities are truly endless, allowing you to tailor this magnificent dish to your exact preferences and dietary needs.

Your Turn: Embrace the Flavor!

Now, it’s your turn to experience the magic of this dish. I genuinely believe that once you try making this Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken, it will quickly become a cherished recipe in your home. There’s something profoundly satisfying about creating such a flavorful and comforting meal from scratch, especially one that brings a delightful and healthy twist to a classic. Don’t be intimidated by the list of ingredients; each step is straightforward, and the reward is truly immense. Gather your ingredients, put on some music, and let the incredible aromas fill your kitchen as you prepare this culinary masterpiece. I promise, the effort is well worth it for the incredible flavors you’ll uncover.

I am incredibly excited for you to try this recipe, and I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you add any unique twists of your own? What did you serve it with? Please don’t hesitate to share your thoughts, your successes, and even your “aha!” moments in the comments below. Snap a picture of your beautiful creation and share it with us! Your feedback and creative interpretations are invaluable, and they inspire me and other readers to continue exploring new culinary horizons. So go ahead, embark on this delicious adventure, and let this Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken bring warmth, flavor, and joy to your table. Happy cooking!