Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash

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Comfort food gets a cozy fall makeover in this Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash. Juicy chicken thighs slowly simmer in a sweet and tangy maple-Dijon sauce, surrounded by tender chunks of butternut squash that soak up every drop of flavor. It’s an effortlessly elegant dinner that tastes like you spent all day in the kitchen, but really, your slow cooker did all the work.

Perfect for chilly evenings or busy weeknights, this dish strikes the ideal balance between savory and sweet. With minimal prep and wholesome ingredients, it’s a one-pot wonder that fills your home with irresistible aroma and your plate with hearty, feel-good nourishment.

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

• Set it and forget it: The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, making this recipe perfect for busy days.
• Sweet and savory harmony: Maple syrup and Dijon mustard create a sauce that’s rich, balanced, and full of depth.
• Wholesome ingredients: Butternut squash, herbs, and lean chicken thighs come together for a healthy, filling meal.
• Meal prep friendly: This dish stores and reheats beautifully, making leftovers just as delicious as day one.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are the best cut for this recipe. They stay juicy and tender during slow cooking, and the skin adds a boost of flavor that pairs beautifully with the maple-Dijon glaze. If you prefer skinless or boneless thighs, they can work too—just note the texture may be slightly different. Avoid chicken breasts, as they tend to dry out in the slow cooker.

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Ingredients for the Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash

Each ingredient in this dish plays a key role in building deep, comforting flavor. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

• Chicken thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs provide rich flavor and remain tender during slow cooking.
• Butternut squash: Adds natural sweetness and creamy texture that complements the savory sauce.
• Maple syrup: A touch of sweetness to balance the tanginess of the mustard and enhance the overall sauce.
• Dijon mustard: Brings sharp, tangy depth that contrasts beautifully with the sweet maple syrup.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic adds aromatic, savory notes.
• Chicken broth: Acts as a flavorful base for the sauce while keeping the chicken moist.
• Thyme: Fresh or dried thyme adds earthy, herby complexity.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
• Olive oil: Helps brown the chicken for a deeper, richer flavor before slow cooking (optional but recommended).

How To Make the Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash

Step 1: Sear the Chicken (Optional but Adds Flavor)

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add a splash of olive oil, and sear the chicken thighs skin-side down until golden brown. This step is optional but adds depth.

Step 2: Layer the Crockpot

Place the cubed butternut squash at the bottom of the slow cooker. Arrange the seared (or raw) chicken thighs on top.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and chicken broth. Pour the mixture evenly over the chicken and squash.

Step 4: Season and Add Herbs

Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and thyme (fresh sprigs or dried).

Step 5: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the squash is fork-tender.

Step 6: Serve

Gently spoon the chicken and squash onto plates, drizzle with sauce from the crockpot, and garnish with extra thyme if desired.

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Serving and Storing Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash

This cozy crockpot meal serves 4 to 6 people, making it a fantastic option for family dinners or easy meal prep. Serve it straight from the slow cooker for a rustic presentation, or plate it with a drizzle of extra sauce and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a more elevated look.

To store leftovers, let everything cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

What to Serve With Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

The creamy texture and mild flavor pair beautifully with the sweet-savory chicken and squash.

Steamed Green Beans

A crisp, clean side dish to balance out the richness of the main course.

Wild Rice Pilaf

Nutty and slightly chewy, wild rice brings a hearty contrast and soaks up the maple-Dijon sauce nicely.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Caramelized Brussels sprouts complement the sweetness of the squash and add crunch.

Crusty Bread

Perfect for soaking up every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Simple Mixed Greens Salad

A fresh salad with vinaigrette adds brightness and helps cleanse the palate.

Sauteed Kale

Earthy and nutrient-dense, kale rounds out the plate with deep green goodness.

Apple Cider

For a cozy fall dinner, serve with warm apple cider to echo the autumnal flavors.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Yes, frozen cubed butternut squash works well in this recipe. No need to thaw it first—just add it directly to the slow cooker.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the sauce and chop the squash the night before. In the morning, simply assemble everything in the crockpot and start cooking.

Is there a substitute for maple syrup?
Honey can be used in place of maple syrup, but it will alter the flavor slightly. Maple syrup provides a deeper, caramel-like sweetness.

Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Carrots, sweet potatoes, or parsnips are great additions that complement the flavor profile.

What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
You can use stone-ground mustard or even yellow mustard in a pinch, though the flavor may be a bit milder.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try sweet potatoes instead of squash? Or added carrots too?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.

Check out more cozy, flavorful recipes on my Pinterest: Life With Livia on Pinterest

Conclusion

Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash is the kind of comforting, simple dinner we all crave when the weather turns cool. It’s full of fall flavor, requires minimal effort, and feeds your family something truly satisfying. Whether you’re prepping it ahead or throwing it together in the morning, this slow-cooked meal is sure to become a seasonal staple in your kitchen.

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