– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
– 1/2 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Creating this incredible dish is simple when you follow these steps:
1. Prepare Chicken: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
2. Add Butternut Squash: Layer the cubed butternut squash on top of the chicken.
3. Mix Sauce Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, black pepper, and chicken broth.
4. Pour Sauce Over: Drizzle the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken and squash.
5. Add Olive Oil: Drizzle olive oil over the top for added moisture and flavor.
6. Cook on Low: Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours, or on high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
7. Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
8. Shred or Serve Whole: You can either shred the chicken directly in the crockpot or serve the breasts whole, accompanied by the squash and sauce.
9. Garnish: If desired, sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving for a burst of color.
With these steps, you’ll have a meal that not only tastes amazing but also makes your kitchen smell delicious.