Butternut Squash Stuffed Chicken Breast
Tender chicken breasts stuffed with roasted butternut squash, sage, and goat cheese, creating a flavorful main course at 420 calories per serving with 38g of protein.
25m
4
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Ingredients
- 4 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 4 oz goat cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage leaves, chopped
- 1 medium shallot, finely minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons dry white wine
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
Instructions
- 1
Roast Butternut Squash
Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss diced butternut squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized. Let cool slightly.
- 2
Prepare Stuffing
In a medium bowl, gently mash half of the roasted butternut squash, leaving some chunks. Mix in goat cheese, chopped sage, minced shallot, pine nuts, and garlic. Season with remaining salt and pepper.
- 3
Butterfly Chicken Breasts
Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap and pound to even 1/2-inch thickness. Using a sharp knife, cut a horizontal pocket into the thickest part of each breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- 4
Stuff Chicken
Divide the butternut squash mixture evenly among the chicken breast pockets. Secure openings with toothpicks. Season outsides with remaining salt, pepper, and paprika.
- 5
Sear Chicken
Heat remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil and butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear stuffed chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- 6
Finish in Oven
Add white wine to the skillet and transfer to preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes until chicken reaches internal temperature of 165°F.
- 7
Rest and Serve
Remove toothpicks and let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh thyme and serve with any pan juices drizzled over top.
Chef's Tips
Make sure to pound chicken to even thickness for uniform cooking. Don't overstuff the pockets or they may burst during cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness.
Nutrition Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about making this butternut squash stuffed chicken breast
How long does it take to make Butternut Squash Stuffed Chicken Breast?
This recipe takes 60 minutes total time, including 25 minutes prep time and 35 minutes cooking time.
How many servings does this Butternut Squash Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe make?
This recipe yields 4 servings.
What is the difficulty level of this Butternut Squash Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe?
This recipe is rated as Medium difficulty level, making it suitable for home cooks with some experience.
Can I make substitutions in this Butternut Squash Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe?
Yes, you can make substitutions, but they may affect the final result. Common substitutions include using different types of ingredients for dietary restrictions or personal preferences.
Can I make this butternut squash stuffed chicken breast ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare this butternut squash stuffed chicken breast up to 1 day ahead. Assemble the dish completely, cover with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bring to room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if needed.
How do I store leftover butternut squash stuffed chicken breast?
Store leftover butternut squash stuffed chicken breast covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
What side dishes go well with butternut squash stuffed chicken breast?
This butternut squash stuffed chicken breast pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts, or crusty bread. For a complete meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or a protein of your choice.
Can I freeze butternut squash stuffed chicken breast?
Yes, this butternut squash stuffed chicken breast freezes well for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or store in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.