Introduction
Imagine coming home after a long, chilly day, with a hearty craving for something warm, soothing, and filling. You’re looking for a recipe that offers the perfect combination of flavors—savory chicken, sweet butternut squash, and a rich broth that feels like a comforting embrace. That’s where this homemade chicken butternut squash soup comes in. Not only is it a great way to get cozy on a cool evening, but it’s also a perfect meal to share with your loved ones. Making soup from scratch allows you to control every detail, ensuring the freshest, most flavorful ingredients are used.
In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to prepare the best chicken butternut squash soup from scratch. This recipe is simple yet rich in flavor, with tender chicken, perfectly cooked squash, and a broth that is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Let’s get started!
If you enjoy bold, spicy soups, check out our Buffalo Chicken Soup for a creamy, flavorful alternative to curried butternut squash soup.
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Best Chicken Butternut Squash Soup
The first step to making a fantastic chicken butternut squash soup is gathering the right ingredients. The best soups start with quality, fresh ingredients that complement each other perfectly.
Essential Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Butternut squash | 1 medium-sized |
| Chicken breast or thighs | 2 boneless |
| Onion | 1 large |
| Carrots | 2 medium-sized |
| Celery stalks | 2 stalks |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Chicken broth or stock | 4 cups |
| Coconut milk (optional) | 1 cup |
| Olive oil or butter | 2 tbsp |
| Fresh thyme | 2 sprigs |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
These ingredients come together to create a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and creamy flavors that make this soup so irresistible. Each ingredient plays a vital role in the overall taste, and you can always make slight adjustments based on your preference.
For another creamy and comforting soup, try our Marry Me Chicken Soup, which pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of curried butternut squash soup.
How to Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to prepare everything for cooking. A little bit of prep work goes a long way in ensuring your soup turns out perfectly.
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
The chicken you choose for this recipe should be tender and flavorful. Boneless chicken breasts or thighs work well. Here’s how to get them ready for the soup:
- Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning your chicken with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy about it; a good seasoning base sets the stage for the flavors to come.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook it for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Once cooked, set it aside to cool, then shred the chicken using two forks.
Shredding the chicken before adding it to the soup ensures it will absorb all the delicious flavors of the broth as it cooks.
Step 2: Preparing the Vegetables
Now that your chicken is ready, it’s time to prep your vegetables. The combination of fresh vegetables in this soup not only adds great flavor but also provides a lot of texture.
- Chop the Butternut Squash: Peel the butternut squash and cut it into small cubes. This will help it cook faster and allows the squash to break down nicely into the broth.
- Chop the Onion, Carrots, and Celery: Dice the onion, carrots, and celery into small, even pieces. These vegetables form the base of the soup, adding depth and flavor.
- Minced Garlic: Mince the garlic so that it blends seamlessly into the broth. Garlic brings an aromatic, savory element to the soup.
How to Cook the Chicken Butternut Squash Soup
With all your ingredients prepared, the next step is to bring everything together into one delicious, savory pot. Here’s how to cook the soup.
Combine the Ingredients
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot where you cooked the chicken, add a bit more oil or butter. Toss in the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté them over medium heat for about 5 minutes. You want them to soften and become fragrant.
- Add the Garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, allowing it to release its wonderful aroma.
- Add the Squash and Broth: Once the vegetables are softened, add the chopped butternut squash to the pot, followed by the chicken broth. Stir everything together.
- Bring the Soup to a Boil: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer. Let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.
Let the Soup Simmer
Shred the Chicken and Add It
- Shred the Chicken: While the soup is simmering, shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
- Add the Chicken to the Soup: Once the squash is soft, add the shredded chicken back into the pot. Stir to combine and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb all the flavors of the broth.
If you’re a fan of tomato-based soups, our Panera Bread Tomato Soup recipe is a classic comfort food that complements curried butternut squash soup beautifully.
Tips for the Best Chicken Butternut Squash Soup
To take your chicken butternut squash soup from good to great, here are some tips that will help you create the ultimate dish.
1. Add Depth with Herbs and Spices
To truly make this soup special, experiment with a variety of herbs and spices. For example:
- Thyme is a great herb to add; it pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the squash and the richness of the chicken.
- Cinnamon and nutmeg are warming spices that add a bit of complexity to the flavor profile.
- Ginger adds a touch of zing that balances out the sweetness of the squash.
2. Adjust the Thickness of the Soup
Some people prefer a thinner soup, while others like a creamier texture. You can adjust the thickness by adding more broth or coconut milk. If you want an even creamier texture, blend part of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender.
3. Roasting the Squash
For added depth of flavor, consider roasting the butternut squash before adding it to the soup. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the squash and adds a slightly caramelized flavor. To roast the squash:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the cubed squash with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until it’s tender and lightly browned.
Once roasted, add it to the pot along with the other ingredients. Roasting the squash gives the soup an added layer of flavor that can make all the difference.
4. Consider Adding Cream for Extra Richness
If you prefer a richer soup, you can stir in heavy cream, half-and-half, or coconut milk after blending the soup. This will give the soup a velvety smoothness and a comforting, luxurious feel.
How to Serve Your Chicken Butternut Squash Soup
Serving your chicken butternut squash soup is just as important as making it. Here are a few serving suggestions to make it even more enjoyable:
1. Pair with Crusty Bread
A bowl of this soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread. It’s perfect for dipping into the rich, flavorful broth. You can toast the bread lightly to make it even better for dipping. Whether you go with a baguette or a rustic sourdough, the combination of warm bread and hearty soup will leave you feeling fully satisfied.
2. Garnish for Added Visual Appeal
Add a touch of cream or coconut milk on top of your soup before serving. Fresh parsley or thyme can also make a beautiful garnish. For a little extra crunch, top the soup with homemade croutons. These additions not only make the soup visually appealing but also add extra texture to every spoonful.
3. Pair with a Side Salad
A light, crisp salad pairs wonderfully with this comforting soup. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will help balance out the richness of the soup. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could add roasted vegetables to the salad for even more flavor.
Looking for more hearty and healthy soups? Our Curried Butternut Squash Soup is a delicious vegan-friendly option that brings warmth and comfort to your meals.
FAQs About Chicken Butternut Squash Soup
1. Can I make chicken butternut squash soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time! It actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to the fridge or freezer.
2. Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Absolutely! Frozen butternut squash is a convenient and budget-friendly alternative. It works just as well in this recipe and saves you time during prep. The texture and flavor will be nearly identical to fresh squash, making it a great option if you’re in a pinch.
3. How can I reheat leftover chicken butternut squash soup?
To reheat, simply place the soup in a pot over low heat. Stir occasionally and add a bit of broth or water if it has thickened too much. If you’re reheating a large batch, you can also use the microwave. Just be sure to stir it halfway through the heating process for even warmth.
4. Can I freeze chicken butternut squash soup?
Yes, this soup freezes beautifully! To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it up on the stove.
5. Can I make this soup spicy?
If you prefer a bit of heat, you can easily adjust the flavor by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of red pepper flakes, or a few slices of jalapeño while cooking the vegetables. This will give your soup a delightful kick without overwhelming the other flavors.
Conclusion
There’s something truly comforting about a homemade soup, especially one made from fresh, wholesome ingredients. This chicken butternut squash soup recipe will surely become a staple in your kitchen, perfect for cozy nights, family meals, or when you need something hearty and nourishing. With its rich flavors, tender chicken, and velvety texture, it’s a bowl of comfort in every spoonful. Try making it today, and your taste buds will thank you!
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends and family. Don’t forget to leave a comment below to let us know how your soup turned out or if you added any of your own twists to the recipe!