Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash

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Sweet, savory, and effortlessly cozy, this Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash is a perfect cold-weather comfort meal that practically cooks itself. Tender chicken thighs slow-simmer in a rich blend of pure maple syrup, tangy Dijon mustard, and garlic, soaking up bold flavors while becoming melt-in-your-mouth soft. Paired with chunks of butternut squash that absorb all that delicious sauce, this dish is one-pot simplicity at its finest.

Whether you’re prepping dinner before work or looking for a no-fuss weekend meal, this recipe is an easy win. The sweetness from the maple balances beautifully with the mustard’s slight spice, making it family-friendly but far from boring. Plus, the natural creaminess of the squash adds a buttery texture that completes the dish with minimal effort.

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

This is the kind of meal that feels gourmet without any of the stress. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, and the end result is layered with flavor and perfectly cooked components. It’s also a nutritious choice, with lean protein, fiber-packed squash, and minimal added fat. Ideal for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or impressing guests with something surprisingly sophisticated.

What Cut of Chicken Works Best for This Recipe?

While you can technically use any cut of chicken, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work best here. They stay moist over long cooking times and soak up the sauce beautifully. Chicken breasts can be used if you prefer, but be sure not to overcook them as they tend to dry out faster in the slow cooker.

Ingredients for the Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash

For this recipe, we rely on a handful of whole ingredients that come together to create something rich and satisfying.

Chicken thighs bring tenderness and full flavor that holds up well during slow cooking.

Butternut squash adds natural sweetness and creaminess while absorbing the savory sauce.

Maple syrup is the backbone of the glaze, giving the dish its signature sweet profile.

Dijon mustard cuts through the sweetness with sharp, tangy depth.

Garlic provides aromatic richness that infuses the entire pot.

Chicken broth adds moisture and helps develop a deeper, more rounded sauce.

Salt and black pepper enhance and balance the core flavors.

How To Make the Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash

Step 1: Sear the Chicken (Optional but Flavorful)

If you have a few extra minutes, searing the chicken in a skillet before placing it in the Crockpot adds great texture and deeper flavor. Simply brown on each side for 2 to 3 minutes in a bit of olive oil.

Step 2: Prepare the Butternut Squash

Peel and cube the butternut squash into 1-inch chunks. You can also use pre-cut squash from the store to save time.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and chicken broth until smooth.

Step 4: Layer Ingredients in the Crockpot

Add the cubed squash to the bottom of the Crockpot, place the chicken thighs on top, then pour the maple Dijon mixture over everything. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the squash is soft but not mushy.

Step 6: Serve

Gently stir everything together and serve warm, spooning some of the sauce over each portion.

Serving and Storing Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash

This dish is hearty enough to serve on its own, but you can easily round it out with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. It makes enough to feed 4 to 6 people, depending on portion size. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 2 months—just thaw and reheat gently.

What to Serve With Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken?

Steamed Green Beans

Their bright crunch balances the softness of the chicken and squash.

Wild Rice Pilaf

Nutty and slightly chewy, wild rice pairs beautifully with the sweet-savory sauce.

Crusty French Bread

Perfect for mopping up every drop of the maple Dijon glaze.

Simple Arugula Salad

Adds a peppery freshness to the rich, warm dish.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Ultra-comforting and ideal if you’re feeding a hungry crowd.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their caramelized edges and slight bitterness cut through the sweetness of the sauce.

Apple Cranberry Slaw

Brings a tart and crunchy contrast that keeps the meal lively.

Cornbread Muffins

Soft and slightly sweet, they complement the maple flavors without overpowering them.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash, don’t miss these other hearty, flavor-packed favorites from Mia Plates:

• Try the Sweet Potato Chicken Bake if you’re into cozy oven-baked comfort.
• Need a creamy twist? The Creamy Chicken Pesto Gnocchi Skillet is a one-pan wonder.
• For something lighter but still satisfying, go with the Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Salad.
• The Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Bites pack bold flavor with minimal effort.
• Or warm up with the Slow Cooker Chicken and Chickpea Stew, rich in protein and hearty goodness.

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Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you sear the chicken or toss it all in raw? Any twists or favorite sides you added?

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