If you are ready to indulge in a dish that combines comfort with a sophisticated twist, this Chicken in Butternut Squash Mushroom Cream Sauce Recipe is absolutely for you. It’s a wonderful medley of tender chicken breasts nestled in a lush, creamy sauce bursting with earthy mushrooms and the subtle sweetness of butternut squash. The sauce’s silky texture, punctuated by hints of sage and a touch of umami from miso and Parmesan, makes every bite memorable and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or a cozy dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels both special and approachable.

A white bowl sits on a white marbled texture board, filled with a creamy light brown sauce mixed with slices of mushrooms and green herbs. On top, two browned and slightly crispy chicken pieces rest, showing a golden and dark brown color with a textured surface. The sauce surrounds the chicken, with visible small pieces of vegetables and herbs in green and yellow colors interspersed throughout. The dish has rich, warm colors and a hearty, inviting look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is fantastic because it relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to deliver incredible flavor and texture. Each component plays an important role, from the seasoning that brings warmth to the chicken to the rich cream that finishes the sauce beautifully.

Chicken breast fillets: Use small fillets or halve larger ones for even cooking and perfect tenderness.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing natural flavors.
Sweet paprika: Adds a mild smokiness and a beautiful golden hue.
Olive oil: Divided to sauté mushrooms and chicken separately for best browning.
Cremini mushrooms: Provide an earthy, meaty texture and flavor.
Unsalted butter: Enriches the sauce and adds a velvety finish.
Butternut squash (peeled and cubed): Offers a natural sweetness and lovely body to the sauce.
Onion (finely chopped): Lends sweetness and depth.
Garlic cloves (minced): Brings aromatic warmth and flavor.
Sage leaves (torn): Offers a wonderful herby aroma and complements the creaminess perfectly.
Chicken broth: Forms the flavorful base of the sauce.
Cream (20% fat): Makes the sauce luxuriously smooth and rich.
White miso paste: Adds an unexpected umami boost that elevates the sauce.
Grated Parmesan: For sharpness and depth.
Red pepper flakes: Optional, for a subtle heat at serving.

How to Make Chicken in Butternut Squash Mushroom Cream Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Before the magic begins, get everything ready: mince the garlic, finely chop the onion, chop the mushrooms, and season your chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and sweet paprika. Taking this prep time saves you stress during cooking and ensures your flavors blend perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Butternut Squash

Trim the ends of the squash, cut it in half, and carefully peel the skin. Scoop out the seeds, then slice, stick, and cube the flesh evenly. These cubes will sauté to tender, slightly caramelized perfection, adding a beautiful color contrast in every forkful.

Step 3: Brown the Mushrooms

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over high heat, then add the cremini mushrooms. Let them cook until they release their juices and turn crispy and golden. This step intensifies their flavor and texture, which really makes the sauce stand out.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Wipe the skillet and add the remaining olive oil and butter. Cook the seasoned chicken over medium-high heat, about 5 to 8 minutes on each side, until fully cooked and beautifully browned. Rest the chicken on a plate covered with foil to keep it warm while you finish the sauce.

Step 5: Sauté Butternut Squash and Aromatics

Add butternut squash cubes to the skillet and cook, tossing occasionally, until they are tender and browned—around 5 minutes. Stir in butter, then add the onion, garlic, and sage leaves. This builds layers of fragrant, savory goodness that will soak into your sauce.

Step 6: Deglaze and Simmer

Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and gently scrape up all those flavorful browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. This step extracts maximum flavor and forms the base of the cream sauce.

Step 7: Create the Cream Sauce

Stir in the cream, white miso paste, and grated Parmesan. Continue stirring until the miso paste fully dissolves, melding the sauce into a silky, rich concoction that perfectly coats the chicken and vegetables.

Step 8: Finish and Combine

Add the sautéed mushrooms and return the chicken to the skillet. Simmer together for another 3 minutes until the chicken is warmed through and the flavors marry beautifully. Finish with freshly cracked black pepper and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.

How to Serve Chicken in Butternut Squash Mushroom Cream Sauce Recipe

Chicken in Butternut Squash Mushroom Cream Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A simple garnish can elevate the presentation and flavor. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of green freshness, while a little extra grated Parmesan on top enhances the creamy savoriness. A drizzle of good olive oil or a lemon wedge on the side brightens up the richness wonderfully.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with light, complementary sides. Fluffy mashed potatoes or buttery noodles soak up the luscious cream sauce perfectly. For a lighter option, steamed green beans or a crisp arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette provide balance and texture contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive dinner, plate the chicken on a bed of creamy polenta or herb-infused couscous before spooning over the sauce. Serving it family-style in a large skillet straight from the stove creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that’s sure to get everyone excited to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Chicken in Butternut Squash Mushroom Cream Sauce Recipe, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next meal just as delightful.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, though the texture of the cream sauce may slightly change. To freeze, cool completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from breaking. Adding a splash of cream or broth can help restore the creamy texture and keep the chicken moist and tender.

FAQs

Can I use different types of mushrooms?

Absolutely! While cremini mushrooms lend a mild earthiness, you can experiment with shiitake, button, or portobello mushrooms for varied flavors and textures.

Is the white miso paste necessary?

White miso adds umami depth that is hard to replicate, but if you don’t have it, a small amount of soy sauce or extra Parmesan can help achieve a similar savory note.

Can this recipe be made dairy-free?

Yes! Replace the cream and butter with coconut milk and olive oil or dairy-free butter alternatives for a rich, creamy sauce without dairy.

What is the best way to serve this for a dinner party?

Serve the chicken sliced over a communal platter of creamy polenta or mashed potatoes, topped with sauce and fresh herbs—this creates a gorgeous presentation and encourages sharing.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a little longer uncovered to reduce further, or stir in a small slurry of cornstarch and water toward the end of cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken in Butternut Squash Mushroom Cream Sauce Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to dishes when I want something irresistibly cozy yet elegant. The combination of sweet squash, earthy mushrooms, and rich cream sauce over tender chicken is a guaranteed way to impress yourself and your loved ones. I hope you give it a try soon and enjoy every comforting bite as much as I do!