Rich with warm autumn flavors, this Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken with Butternut Squash is a cozy comfort dish you’ll want on repeat all season long. Tender chicken breasts simmer in a luscious maple Dijon sauce, soaking up every bit of the sweet and savory flavor. Butternut squash adds a vibrant, slightly nutty contrast that melts in your mouth by the end of the slow cook.

The best part? Your slow cooker does all the heavy lifting. This is a set-it-and-forget-it type of meal perfect for busy weekdays or lazy Sundays. It tastes like a labor of love, but requires almost none of the stress. Just prep, dump, and let the magic happen.

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

It’s a one-pot wonder with minimal cleanup
Perfectly balanced sweet and tangy flavors
Butternut squash turns buttery soft in the crockpot
Great for meal prep and leftovers
Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work beautifully in this recipe because they cook up tender without drying out in the sauce. You could also use boneless thighs for a juicier, slightly richer flavor. The key is to ensure the chicken is thick enough to hold its shape after hours of slow cooking. Avoid thin cutlets as they may overcook.

Ingredients for the Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash

Every ingredient here brings something important to the table. This is a dish built on balance—sweet, tangy, herby, and hearty.

Chicken breasts – Lean protein that stays tender in the crockpot.
Butternut squash – Adds natural sweetness and a hearty texture that complements the sauce.
Maple syrup – For a subtle caramelized sweetness.
Dijon mustard – Brings zingy contrast and complexity.
Garlic – A base flavor that infuses everything as it cooks.
Chicken broth – Keeps everything juicy and flavorful.
Olive oil – Helps sear the chicken for extra flavor.
Salt & pepper – Essentials for seasoning throughout.
Fresh thyme – Adds an aromatic, earthy note that pairs beautifully with squash and maple.

How To Make the Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash

Step 1: Sear the Chicken for Depth

In a hot skillet with olive oil, sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly golden. This locks in flavor and gives the dish more richness.

Step 2: Prep the Butternut Squash

Peel and cube your butternut squash into bite-sized pieces. Add it to the bottom of your crockpot.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, chicken broth, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Layer and Cook

Place the seared chicken over the squash in the crockpot. Pour the sauce evenly over the top. Tuck in sprigs of fresh thyme.

Step 5: Let It Slow Cook

Cover and cook on LOW for 5-6 hours or HIGH for 2.5-3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and the squash is fork-tender.

Serving and Storing This Comforting Meal

This recipe serves 4 generous portions, ideal for a family dinner or leftovers for the next day. Serve it directly from the crockpot into shallow bowls, with extra spoonfuls of the maple Dijon sauce over top.

To store: Let everything cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat.

For freezing: You can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What to Serve With Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken With Butternut Squash

Crusty Artisan Bread

A thick slice is perfect for mopping up that delicious maple mustard sauce.

Steamed Green Beans

Their crunch adds great texture and a pop of color to the plate.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

A little caramelization complements the maple and thyme.

Herbed Quinoa

Fluffy, light, and a great gluten-free grain option.

Apple Walnut Salad

Crisp apples and toasted walnuts play well with the sweetness of the chicken dish.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

For a truly hearty comfort meal, this is a winning match.

Wild Rice Pilaf

Adds an earthy grain option with extra flavor.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If this comforting crockpot meal hits the spot, you’ll love diving into more weeknight chicken favorites:

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Let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you swap the squash for sweet potatoes? Add a dash of chili for heat? I love hearing your twists on these cozy dishes.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting comfort meals on Nora Nosh Recipes Pinterest and discover your next favorite dinner inspiration.