Roasted Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake – Alrightwithme

Roasted Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake – Alrightwithme is a delightful dish that brings comfort and nutrition to your dinner table. This one-pan meal combines tender chicken thighs, sweet butternut squash, and savory leeks, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The simplicity of preparation and the rich flavors will impress your family and guests alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time, this dish can be in the oven within 15 minutes.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome vegetables and lean protein, it’s a healthy choice for any meal.
• One-Pan Wonder: The convenience of cooking everything in one pan means less cleanup and more time to relax.
• Versatile Flavor Profile: The combination of herbs and spices enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients, making each bite delicious.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

To make Roasted Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake – Alrightwithme efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large baking dish
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large baking dish: Allows for even cooking of all ingredients without overcrowding, ensuring optimal flavor.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and prepping ingredients.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for vegetables, making prep faster and easier.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for tossing ingredients together with seasonings before baking.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken

• Low-calorie oil spray
• 1 1/3 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, uncooked
• 1 tsp dried parsley flakes
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and ground black pepper, to taste

For the Vegetables

• 1 tbsp salted butter (or olive oil)
• 1 yellow onion, sliced
• 1 1/3 lb butternut squash, peeled and diced
• 1 tsp paprika
• 3 leeks, cleaned, trimmed, and cut into slices
• 1 tbsp chopped garlic (or 3 garlic cloves, crushed)

For the Broth and Cheese

• 1 cup (8 fl oz) chicken broth (better than bouillon recommended)
• 3 oz (80 g) freshly grated parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley leaves, chopped (about a handful)

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Make Roasted Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake – Alrightwithme

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine the uncooked chicken thighs with dried parsley flakes, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss until well coated.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large baking dish:
* Spray with low-calorie oil spray or add salted butter/olive oil.
* Add sliced onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.

Step 4: Add Butternut Squash and Leeks

Stir in diced butternut squash, sliced leeks, paprika, chopped garlic:
1. Mix well to coat all vegetables with seasonings.
2. Spread evenly across the baking dish.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Place seasoned chicken thighs on top of the vegetable mixture. Pour chicken broth evenly over everything.

Step 6: Bake

Cover with foil and bake in preheated oven for about 25 minutes.
Afterward:
1. Remove foil.
2. Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the top.
3. Bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes until cheese is golden brown.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve

Once cooked through:
– Remove from oven.
– Sprinkle fresh parsley leaves on top before serving.

Enjoy your hearty Roasted Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake!

How to Serve Roasted Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake – Alrightwithme

Serving Roasted Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake is all about enhancing its comforting flavors and providing a well-rounded meal. Here are some delightful ways to serve this dish.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the bake.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any delicious broth left on your plate.

Accompany with Steamed Vegetables

• Lightly steamed green beans or broccoli bring a pop of color and nutrients to your meal.

Add a Side of Quinoa

• Quinoa is a nutritious grain that complements the bake well, providing additional protein and fiber.

How to Perfect Roasted Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake – Alrightwithme

Perfecting your Roasted Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake can elevate this dish even further. Consider these handy tips for best results.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh leeks and squash enhance flavor and texture, making your dish more vibrant.
• Season generously: Don’t be shy with salt, pepper, and herbs; they are crucial in bringing out the flavors in the chicken and vegetables.
• Adjust cooking time: Keep an eye on the chicken; it should be fully cooked but still juicy. Check using a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
• Let it rest: After baking, let your dish rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.

Best Side Dishes for Roasted Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake – Alrightwithme

Adding side dishes can enhance your dining experience with Roasted Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic provide a hearty addition that pairs beautifully with the bake.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a crunchy texture and slight bitterness that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of butternut squash.
3. Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce brings brightness to your plate, complementing the savory elements of the bake.
4. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf with herbs allows you to soak up any extra sauce from the bake while adding flavor.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made from cabbage adds crunch and freshness that complements the richness of the dish.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes offer a natural sweetness that balances out savory flavors while being nutritious.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One-pan meals can be simple, but a few common mistakes can derail your Roasted Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake – Alrightwithme. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

• Ignoring Ingredient Prep: Not properly preparing your vegetables can lead to uneven cooking. Always peel, chop, and slice your ingredients as directed for the best results.

• Overcrowding the Pan: If you fill your baking dish too much, ingredients may steam instead of roast. Ensure there is enough space for air circulation for even cooking.

• Skipping Seasoning: Under-seasoning can result in bland flavors. Use salt, herbs, and spices generously to enhance your dish’s taste.

• Not Checking Doneness: Relying solely on cooking times can be misleading. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.

• Using the Wrong Type of Chicken: Selecting skin-on or bone-in chicken can affect cooking time and texture. Stick with boneless skinless thighs as specified for best results.

• Neglecting Leftovers: Overlooking proper storage of leftovers can lead to waste. Store in airtight containers to keep them fresh.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Roasted Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake – Alrightwithme

• Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers.
• Best used within 2-3 months for best flavor and texture.

Reheating Roasted Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake – Alrightwithme

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth if necessary to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about the Roasted Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake – Alrightwithme.

Can I use other vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts based on what you have available.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can replace cheese with nutritional yeast or omit it entirely for a dairy-free version while still enjoying delicious flavors.

What side dishes go well with this bake?

Simple green salads or crusty artisan bread would complement your meal nicely without overwhelming the main flavors.

How long does it take to prepare?

Preparation takes about 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want something nutritious without fuss.

Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Absolutely! Just ensure it’s thawed before using so that it cooks evenly with the other ingredients.

Final Thoughts

The Roasted Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake – Alrightwithme is not only easy to prepare but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different herbs or vegetables based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a comforting meal that brings warmth to any table!