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Sure! Here’s an article-style write-up for your **Butternut Squash Stuffed with Chicken and Melted Cheese** recipe:
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## Butternut Squash Stuffed with Chicken and Melted Cheese: A Comforting and Flavorful Dish
If you’re looking for a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious, **Butternut Squash Stuffed with Chicken and Melted Cheese** is the answer! This dish combines the sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the savory flavors of tender chicken and gooey, melted cheese. It’s a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Whether you’re looking for a healthy dinner, a meal prep idea, or just something new to try, this recipe is not only easy to make but also packs a punch of nutrition. Let’s dive into how to prepare this mouth-watering, stuffed squash dish!
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### Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– **Comforting and Hearty**: The sweet, soft butternut squash pairs perfectly with the savory chicken and melted cheese, creating a comforting dish that satisfies all your cravings.
– **Packed with Nutrients**: Butternut squash is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, while the chicken adds protein, making this dish both tasty and healthy.
– **Versatile**: You can easily customize the filling with different cheeses, seasonings, or even vegetables based on what you have on hand.
– **Meal Prep Friendly**: This dish is great for meal prep! You can make it in advance, store it in the fridge, and reheat it when needed.
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### Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious stuffed butternut squash dish:
– 2 medium-sized **butternut squashes**, halved and seeds removed
– 2 boneless, skinless **chicken breasts** (or thighs if preferred)
– 1 cup **shredded cheese** (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of both)
– 1 small **onion**, chopped
– 2 cloves **garlic**, minced
– 1 tablespoon **olive oil**
– 1 teaspoon **dried thyme** or rosemary (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– **Butter** for greasing the baking dish (optional)
– **Fresh herbs** (like parsley or cilantro) for garnish
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### Instructions
#### Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the halved butternut squashes on a baking sheet, cut-side up. Drizzle with a little olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. You can also add a pinch of thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
Roast the squash in the oven for about **40-45 minutes** or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork. Once cooked, remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
#### Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the squash is roasting, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a little dried thyme or rosemary for added flavor. Cook the chicken for about **5-7 minutes per side** or until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. After resting, chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
#### Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed and sauté the chopped onions until they’re soft and translucent, about **3-4 minutes**. Add the minced garlic and cook for another **1-2 minutes** until fragrant.
#### Step 4: Mix the Chicken and Filling
Add the chopped chicken back into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir in the shredded cheese, allowing it to melt and combine with the chicken and onion mixture. You can also add a splash of cream or chicken broth to make the filling creamier, if desired. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
#### Step 5: Stuff the Squash
Once the butternut squash halves are cool enough to handle, scoop out a bit of the flesh from the center to create a well for the filling (you can discard the scooped-out squash or use it for another recipe, like soup or a puree).
Spoon the chicken and cheese mixture into the center of each squash half, generously filling them.
Step 6: Bake and Melt the Cheese
Place the stuffed squash halves on a baking dish. You can optionally dot the top with a little butter to help the squash and cheese become golden and bubbly.
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