Stuffed Butternut Squash With Chicken And Rice

Today, I am thrilled to share with you some delectable recipes featuring the versatile and nutritious butternut squash. If you are a fan of this delightful autumnal vegetable, you are in for a treat. I have curated a collection of mouthwatering recipes that are perfect for any occasion.

Oven Roasted Butternut Squash

Let’s start with a classic favorite - oven roasted butternut squash. This recipe is incredibly simple yet incredibly delicious. The natural sweetness of the squash shines through, while the caramelization adds a delightful depth of flavor. The result is a tender and flavorful side dish that pairs well with any main course.

Ingredients:

• 1 butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and rosemary.
3. Spread the squash in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and golden brown.

How to Prepare: Serve the oven roasted butternut squash as a delightful side dish alongside your favorite protein or incorporate it into a seasonal salad for a burst of flavor and color.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Stuffed Butternut Squash with Chicken and Rice

Looking for a hearty and satisfying main course? Look no further than this stuffed butternut squash with chicken and rice. Bursting with flavors and textures, this dish is sure to impress both family and friends. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy butternut squash creates a harmonious symphony of flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 butternut squash, halved and seeds removed
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the butternut squash halves on a baking sheet, flesh side up.
3. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Spoon the chicken and rice mixture into the butternut squash halves, evenly dividing it among them.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the filling is heated through.

How to Prepare: Serve the stuffed butternut squash with chicken and rice as a complete meal on its own. The creamy squash and savory filling make for a satisfying and nourishing dish.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

How to Cook Butternut Squash in an Instant Pot

The Instant Pot has become a kitchen staple for many busy individuals. If you are looking for a quick and convenient way to cook butternut squash, this method is for you. The Instant Pot ensures that the squash cooks evenly and retains its natural sweetness.

Ingredients:

• 1 butternut squash, halved and seeds removed
• 1 cup water or vegetable broth

Instructions:

1. Place the trivet in the Instant Pot and pour in the water or vegetable broth.
2. Place the butternut squash halves on the trivet, flesh side up.
3. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the sealing position.
4. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and set the cooking time to 8 minutes on high pressure.
5. Once the cooking time is complete, carefully release the pressure and open the lid.
6. Remove the cooked squash from the Instant Pot and allow it to cool slightly before serving or using in your favorite recipes.

How to Prepare: Use the cooked butternut squash in a variety of dishes, such as soups, stews, or even as a base for a creamy pasta sauce.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

With these delightful butternut squash recipes, you can make the most of this seasonal vegetable. From the simplicity of oven roasted butternut squash to the heartiness of stuffed squash with chicken and rice, these recipes are sure to satisfy your taste buds. And if you’re short on time, the Instant Pot method is a game-changer. So why wait? Grab a butternut squash and get cooking!

Servings: Varies based on recipe

Nutrition Facts: Nutritional information may vary depending on the specific recipe and serving size.

Tips: Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, or additions to personalize these recipes to your liking. You can also adapt them to suit various dietary preferences, such as vegetarian or gluten-free.

FAQs: Q: Can I use other types of squash in these recipes? A: Absolutely! Many of these recipes can be made with other winter squash varieties, such as acorn squash or delicata squash.