As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, I find myself craving cozy meals that warm the soul. This Fall Chicken Stew with Quinoa and Butternut Squash is my go-to recipe for those busy evenings when I want something hearty yet simple. It’s a delightful blend of flavors that not only nourishes but also brings the family together around the table. Whether you’re a busy mom juggling work and kids or a professional looking for a quick solution, this stew is sure to impress your loved ones and fill their bellies with comfort.
Why You’ll Love This Fall Chicken Stew with Quinoa and Butternut Squash
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Nutritious ingredients like quinoa and butternut squash keep you feeling satisfied.
- One-pot meal means less cleanup, giving you more time to relax.
- Hearty flavors that warm you from the inside out.
- Great for meal prep; it tastes even better the next day!
Easy Fall Chicken Stew with Quinoa and Butternut Squash
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A hearty and nutritious fall chicken stew featuring quinoa and butternut squash, perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
- 3 Cups Butternut Squash, peeled, seeded & chopped into ½-inch pieces, about 1.5 pounds
- 3 ½ Cups Chicken Broth, low sodium
- 1 ½ Pounds Rotisserie Chicken, chopped
- 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 Yellow Onion, medium, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- 4 Cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 ½ teaspoons Dried Oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg
- 1 Can Diced Tomatoes, 14oz, petite diced
- 2/3 Cup Trader Joe’s Harvest Grains Blend, uncooked, or 2/3 cup uncooked quinoa
- 1 teaspoon Orange Zest
- 1 Cup Kale, chopped, *optional
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper, to taste
- 1/4 Cup Flat-Leaf Parsley, fresh, minced
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Add the butternut squash, chicken broth, and bring to a boil.
- Stir in the chopped rotisserie chicken, diced tomatoes, oregano, cumin, nutmeg, and salt. Reduce heat and let simmer for about 15 minutes.
- Add the quinoa (or Harvest Grains Blend) and orange zest, and continue to simmer until the quinoa is cooked, about 15 minutes.
- If using, stir in the chopped kale and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Season with freshly ground black pepper and garnish with minced parsley before serving.
Notes
- This stew can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or celery for extra nutrition.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients for Fall Chicken Stew with Quinoa and Butternut Squash
Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun of cooking! For this Fall Chicken Stew with Quinoa and Butternut Squash, you’ll need a mix of fresh and pantry staples that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Butternut Squash: This sweet, nutty squash adds a lovely texture and flavor. Peel and chop it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth keeps the stew flavorful without overwhelming it with salt. You can also use homemade broth for an extra touch.
- Rotisserie Chicken: A time-saver! Using pre-cooked chicken makes this stew quick and easy. Feel free to use leftover chicken if you have it.
- Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil is perfect for sautéing the aromatics, adding a rich flavor to the base of your stew.
- Yellow Onion: Finely chopped onion brings sweetness and depth to the dish. It’s a classic base for many stews.
- Kosher Salt: Essential for enhancing the flavors of the ingredients. Adjust to your taste as you cook.
- Garlic: Minced garlic adds a fragrant kick. It’s one of my favorite ingredients for building flavor.
- Dried Oregano: This herb complements the chicken beautifully, giving the stew a warm, earthy taste.
- Ground Cumin: A pinch of cumin adds a subtle warmth and depth, making the stew even more comforting.
- Nutmeg: Just a hint of nutmeg enhances the sweetness of the butternut squash, creating a cozy flavor profile.
- Diced Tomatoes: Canned petite diced tomatoes add acidity and brightness, balancing the richness of the stew.
- Trader Joe’s Harvest Grains Blend or Quinoa: This blend is a fantastic way to add texture and nutrition. Quinoa is a great gluten-free option, packed with protein.
- Orange Zest: A sprinkle of orange zest brightens the dish, adding a refreshing citrus note that pairs wonderfully with the squash.
- Kale (optional): If you want to sneak in some greens, chopped kale is a nutritious addition that wilts beautifully into the stew.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper: A dash of pepper adds a bit of heat and enhances all the flavors in the stew.
- Flat-Leaf Parsley: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that brightens the dish before serving.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing!
How to Make Fall Chicken Stew with Quinoa and Butternut Squash
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delicious Fall Chicken Stew with Quinoa and Butternut Squash. Each step is simple, and I promise you’ll feel like a kitchen pro by the end!
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onion turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial; it builds the flavor base for your stew. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it feel like home!
Step 2: Add the Butternut Squash and Broth
Next, add the chopped butternut squash to the pot. Stir it around for a minute to coat it in the oil. Then, pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, and watch as the squash begins to soften. This is where the magic starts to happen!
Step 3: Incorporate the Chicken and Spices
Once the broth is bubbling, it’s time to add the star of the show: the rotisserie chicken. Stir in the chopped chicken along with the petite diced tomatoes, dried oregano, ground cumin, nutmeg, and kosher salt. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. The spices will meld beautifully, creating a hearty fall chicken stew that warms your heart.
Step 4: Stir in Quinoa and Orange Zest
After the stew has simmered, it’s time to add the quinoa (or Trader Joe’s Harvest Grains Blend if you prefer). Stir in the orange zest for that delightful citrus kick. Let it simmer for another 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and fluffy. This step not only adds nutrition but also a lovely texture to your stew.
Step 5: Add Kale and Final Seasoning
If you’re using kale, now’s the time to stir it in. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the kale wilts down. Finally, season with freshly ground black pepper to taste. Before serving, sprinkle with minced flat-leaf parsley for a fresh finish. Your chicken and quinoa stew with butternut squash is now ready to be enjoyed!
Tips for Success
- Prep your ingredients ahead of time to save on cooking time.
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal.
- Don’t skip the orange zest; it brightens the flavors beautifully.
- Feel free to add extra veggies like carrots or celery for more nutrition.
- Adjust the spices to your taste; a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick!
Equipment Needed
- Large Pot: A sturdy pot is essential for simmering your stew. A Dutch oven works great too!
- Cutting Board: A good cutting board makes chopping your ingredients a breeze.
- Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is key for quick and safe chopping.
- Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring and mixing your ingredients.
- Measuring Cups: Handy for measuring out your quinoa and broth.
Variations To Try
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist that warms you up even more.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the rotisserie chicken with chickpeas or lentils for a hearty, plant-based stew.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant touch that elevates the dish.
- Sweet Potato Swap: Replace butternut squash with sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile and added sweetness.
- Different Grains: Try using farro or barley instead of quinoa for a unique texture and taste.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Fall Chicken Stew with Quinoa and Butternut Squash with crusty bread for dipping.
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the stew beautifully.
- Serve with a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
- Garnish with extra parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Consider a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for added richness.
FAQs about Fall Chicken Stew with Quinoa and Butternut Squash
Can I use frozen butternut squash in this stew?
Absolutely! Frozen butternut squash is a great time-saver. Just add it directly to the pot, and you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
How can I make this a low-fat chicken, quinoa & squash stew?
To keep it low-fat, use skinless rotisserie chicken and opt for low-sodium broth. You can also reduce the amount of olive oil used for sautéing.
Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Yes! This hearty fall chicken stew recipe is perfect for meal prep. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and tastes even better the next day!
What can I substitute for quinoa in this recipe?
If you prefer, you can use brown rice, farro, or even barley as a substitute for quinoa. Just adjust the cooking time according to the grain you choose.
Is this a one-pot chicken quinoa & butternut stew?
Yes! This recipe is designed to be a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze. Everything cooks together, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Fall Chicken Stew with Quinoa and Butternut Squash is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a warm, inviting experience for your family. The rich flavors and comforting aromas fill your home, making it a haven on chilly evenings. I love how this stew brings everyone together, sparking conversations and laughter around the table. Plus, knowing it’s packed with nutrition makes it even more satisfying. So, grab your ingredients, and let this hearty dish become a cherished part of your fall traditions. You won’t regret it!