Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Butternut Squash Stew

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1 (14-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper to the skillet and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat.
3. Place the cut chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Add the sautéed onion, garlic, and bell pepper on top.
4. Add the cubed butternut squash, dried thyme, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt to the slow cooker. Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth. Stir gently to combine.
5. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2.5 hours, until the chicken is tender and the butternut squash is soft but intact.
6. About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the fresh baby spinach and cover the slow cooker again, letting the spinach wilt.
7. After cooking finishes, stir in the fresh lemon juice to brighten flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
8. Serve warm alone or alongside crusty bread or cooked rice for a comforting family dinner.

Chef tips

• For a dairy-free comfort stew, coconut milk adds creaminess without dairy allergens.
• If butternut squash is unavailable, peeled and cubed sweet potatoes make a great substitute.
• Trim chicken thighs of excess fat for a leaner dish, or use boneless skinless chicken breasts but expect slightly drier texture.
• To make prep faster, use pre-cut butternut squash from the store, but fresh has the best flavor and texture.