Roasted Chicken Winter Squash (Print)

Juicy roasted chicken paired with caramelized winter squash and fresh greens for a warm, comforting dish.

# Ingredients:

→ Proteins

01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 1.1 lbs)

→ Vegetables

02 - 1.5 lbs winter squash (butternut or acorn), peeled, seeded, and cut into ¾-inch cubes
03 - 1 small red onion, cut into thin wedges
04 - 4 cups mixed baby greens (arugula, spinach, or baby kale)

→ Marinade & Dressing

05 - 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
06 - 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
07 - 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
08 - 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
09 - 1 garlic clove, minced
10 - 1 tsp dried thyme
11 - ½ tsp smoked paprika
12 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Garnishes

13 - ½ cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped
14 - ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
15 - 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
02 - In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, minced garlic, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
03 - Place chicken thighs in a large bowl, add 3 tablespoons of the marinade, toss to coat, and let rest for 10 minutes.
04 - On the prepared sheet pan, arrange squash cubes and red onion wedges. Drizzle with remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat.
05 - Nestle marinated chicken thighs among the vegetables on the sheet pan.
06 - Roast for 30 to 35 minutes, flipping vegetables halfway through, until chicken reaches internal temperature of 165°F and squash is tender and caramelized.
07 - Remove chicken from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Slice into strips.
08 - In a large bowl, toss roasted vegetables with mixed greens and half of the remaining marinade.
09 - Plate the salad, topping with sliced chicken, toasted pecans, feta cheese if using, and chopped parsley. Drizzle with additional marinade to taste. Serve warm or at room temperature.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Simple one-pan preparation for minimal cleanup
  • Balanced flavors and textures for a satisfying meal
02 -
  • Use sweet potato instead of squash for a delicious twist
  • This dish is naturally gluten-free if all labels are checked
03 -
  • Let chicken rest before slicing for juicier texture
  • Add dressing right before serving to maintain greens crispness
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