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The Best Chicken Butternut Squash Soup Recipe for Meal Prep
When it comes to meal prepping, it’s all about finding recipes that are both nutritious and delicious, while saving you time during the week. One such dish that ticks all the boxes is Chicken Butternut Squash Soup. Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, this comforting soup is perfect for cozy dinners, and it can be easily made in advance for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Whether you’re a meal prep pro or just starting, this recipe will soon become a staple in your kitchen.
In this post, we’ll guide you through why this soup is ideal for meal prep, what ingredients you’ll need, a simple step-by-step cooking process, and tips on storing and reheating it to maintain its flavor and texture. Let’s dive in!
1. Why Chicken Butternut Squash Soup is Perfect for Meal Prep
Nutritional Value
Chicken Butternut Squash Soup isn’t just a comforting dish; it’s also incredibly nutritious. The combination of lean chicken and butternut squash provides a great source of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Butternut squash is packed with vitamins A and C, both of which are essential for immune health, and its natural sweetness balances the savory flavors of the chicken. This makes it a perfect meal to enjoy anytime, especially when you need something nourishing and hearty.
Long Shelf Life
One of the biggest challenges of meal prep is finding dishes that last throughout the week without losing flavor or texture. Chicken Butternut Squash Soup excels here—it keeps well for up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator and can even be frozen for longer storage. This makes it ideal for preparing in advance for busy workweeks or hectic evenings when you don’t have time to cook.
Convenience Making soup in large batches is one of the easiest and most efficient ways to meal prep. This recipe can be prepared in a single pot, and once it’s made, you can store it in airtight containers for quick, grab-and-go meals. It’s also easy to adjust the portion sizes to suit your needs, making it versatile for singles or families.
2. Ingredients You’ll Need for the Best Chicken Butternut Squash Soup
Chicken
For this recipe, you can use either chicken breasts or chicken thighs. Both are excellent choices, with chicken thighs offering a slightly richer flavor due to their higher fat content. If you’re short on time, consider using rotisserie chicken—it’s already cooked and can be shredded into the soup for a quicker meal prep.
Butternut Squash
Fresh butternut squash provides the best flavor and texture for this soup, but if you’re pressed for time, frozen butternut squash can be a great shortcut. You’ll want to peel, seed, and dice your squash if you’re using fresh, but frozen cubes are already prepped and ready to go.
Flavor Add-ins
To enhance the soup’s taste, you’ll need onion and garlic, which provide savory depth. You can also add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage for a burst of aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the squash.
Broth and Dairy
For the broth, chicken broth is ideal, but you can substitute vegetable broth if you’re aiming for a vegetarian version. A splash of heavy cream or coconut milk adds richness and smoothness to the soup. You can also use half-and-half or milk for a lighter version.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Soup
Prepare the Vegetables
Start by peeling and dicing the butternut squash into 1-inch cubes. Chop the onion and garlic, setting them aside for later use. If you’re using fresh herbs, chop those as well.
Cook the Chicken
If you’re using fresh chicken breasts or thighs, cook them in a large pot over medium heat until golden brown and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes per side). Alternatively, shred the rotisserie chicken for a quicker approach. Once cooked, set the chicken aside and chop it into bite-sized pieces.
Simmer the Soup
In the same pot, sauté the onion and garlic until they become soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add the butternut squash cubes, broth, and your herbs. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the squash is tender.
Blend for Creaminess
Once the squash is tender, use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Return the soup to the pot, add the chicken pieces, and stir in the cream for a velvety finish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Tips for Storing and Reheating Chicken Butternut Squash Soup
How to Store
Once your soup has cooled, store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. You can also portion the soup into individual servings to make it even easier to grab for lunch or dinner.
Freezing Tips
For long-term storage, freezing the soup is an excellent option. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove.
Reheating Suggestions
To reheat, simply heat the soup over low to medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much after freezing, add a bit of extra broth or cream to reach your desired consistency. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, depending on your microwave’s power.
5. Variations and Add-Ins for Customizing Your Chicken Butternut Squash Soup
Add More Veggies
This soup is incredibly versatile. Feel free to toss in additional vegetables like carrots, celery, or spinach. Adding more veggies increases the soup’s fiber content and adds extra flavor and color.
Spice It Up
If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding chili flakes, paprika, or a pinch of cayenne pepper. A small amount of ground ginger or curry powder can also add warmth and complexity to the soup.
Make It Vegan or Dairy-Free
If you’re looking to make the soup vegan or dairy-free, simply swap the chicken for a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh. Use coconut milk instead of cream, and replace the chicken broth with a vegetable broth. You’ll still get a rich, creamy soup without the animal products.
Conclusion
Chicken Butternut Squash Soup is a nourishing, comforting dish that’s perfect for meal prep. It’s easy to make in large batches, stores well, and can be customized to suit your dietary preferences. Whether you’re making it for a busy week ahead or simply craving a hearty soup, this recipe will soon become a staple in your kitchen. Try it today and enjoy the convenience of a meal that’s both delicious and nutritious!
Feel free to leave a comment below if you have any questions or want to share your variations of this soup. Happy cooking!