Chicken, Leek and Butternut Squash Bake

The Chicken, Leek and Butternut Squash Bake is the kind of dinner that makes you feel instantly cozy. With tender chunks of chicken, soft sweet squash, and the gentle bite of leeks all coated in a light, creamy sauce, it’s a perfect balance of nutrition and comfort.

This dish comes together easily in one pan and finishes beautifully in the oven, making it an ideal weeknight go-to. It’s packed with protein, low in calories, and offers a satisfying bite that works year-round—though it really shines in the fall. Serve it with a green salad or steamed greens for a complete and nourishing meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 large chicken breasts, diced

• 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed

• 1 large leek, sliced

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 1/2 cup fat-free crème fraîche or Greek yogurt

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp olive oil

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• Olive oil spray

• Optional: fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Lightly spray a large ovenproof skillet or pan with olive oil and place over medium heat.

3. Add onion, leek, and garlic. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.

4. Stir in diced chicken breast and cook until no longer pink on the outside.

5. Add butternut squash cubes and season with thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3 minutes.

6. Pour in chicken broth, cover, and let simmer for 10 minutes to slightly soften the squash.

7. Remove from heat and stir in the crème fraîche or Greek yogurt.

8. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish if not already using an oven-safe pan.

9. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

10. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

The Chicken, Leek and Butternut Squash Bake is a wholesome, family-friendly recipe that strikes the perfect balance between hearty comfort food and healthy eating. With its simple preparation, nourishing ingredients, and deliciously creamy texture, it’s no surprise that this dish has become a favorite for many home cooks looking for satisfying meals that don’t sacrifice nutrition or flavor.

This dish was made popular by those following lighter eating plans like Slimming World and Weight Watchers, but you don’t need to be following any specific diet to enjoy it. It’s warm, filling, and naturally gluten-free—perfect for those with food sensitivities or simply looking to add more whole foods to their diet.

A Comforting Classic with a Nutritious Twist

Traditionally, baked chicken casseroles can be loaded with heavy cream, cheese, and processed ingredients. But this version of the dish offers a lighter alternative by using fat-free crème fraîche or Greek yogurt, lean chicken breast, and vitamin-packed butternut squash. The result is a dish that tastes indulgent but fits into a health-conscious lifestyle.

It’s especially great during the fall and winter months when leeks and squash are in season. The natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash pairs beautifully with the mild, oniony flavor of the leeks and the savory bite of seasoned chicken. Every bite is warm and comforting, making it the perfect addition to your weekly dinner routine.

The Nutritional Benefits of This Dish

One of the standout aspects of this bake is how nutrient-dense it is without being high in calories. Here’s a breakdown of why it’s so good for you:

• Chicken Breast – Lean and packed with protein, chicken breast helps keep you full longer and supports muscle repair and maintenance. It’s low in fat and an excellent source of B vitamins, especially niacin and B6.
• Butternut Squash – A fantastic source of vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Butternut squash is naturally sweet, adding depth and color to the dish while boosting your immune system and aiding digestion.
• Leeks – These are a great source of prebiotics, which help maintain a healthy gut. Leeks also provide vitamin K, folate, and manganese.
• Crème fraîche or Greek yogurt – Using a fat-free version keeps the dish creamy without the extra calories. Greek yogurt adds protein and probiotics, which are great for digestion and immune health.
• Olive oil and garlic – Both bring healthy fats and antioxidant properties to the table.

This recipe is not only packed with flavor but also supports a well-balanced diet, ideal for anyone looking to eat clean, lose weight, or simply cook more nourishing meals at home.

Why This Recipe Works Every Time

1. Simple ingredients – You don’t need a long shopping list or hard-to-find items to pull this off. Everything can be found at your local grocery store.
2. Minimal prep – Most of the work is done in under 20 minutes, and then the oven takes over. That means less time in the kitchen and more time with your family.
3. Versatile – You can easily swap out ingredients depending on what you have on hand. Try swapping butternut squash with sweet potatoes, or use turkey breast instead of chicken. Want a vegetarian version? Use white beans or tofu in place of the chicken and add more veggies.
4. Meal prep-friendly – It stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 3–4 days and tastes just as good reheated. It’s ideal for lunchboxes or make-ahead dinners.
5. Family-approved – Even picky eaters tend to love this one. The subtle sweetness from the squash balances out the savory flavors, making it a winner with both kids and adults.

Tips for Making the Perfect Chicken, Leek & Butternut Squash Bake

• Cut squash evenly – For even cooking, try to cube the butternut squash into similar sizes. This ensures everything is tender at the same time.
• Use a non-stick oven-safe pan – This allows you to cook on the stovetop and transfer straight to the oven without dirtying extra dishes.
• Don’t overcook the chicken – Since the chicken will bake in the oven, just sear it until it’s no longer pink on the outside. This prevents it from drying out during baking.
• Let it rest – Once out of the oven, let the bake sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes serving easier.

Delicious Pairing Ideas

This dish is satisfying on its own, but you can round it out with some sides or toppings to elevate it even more:

• Serve it with steamed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a light salad to boost your veggie intake.
• Add a sprinkle of grated parmesan on top before baking if you’re not watching dairy.
• Drizzle with a little balsamic glaze for a tangy twist.
• Pair it with brown rice, cauliflower mash, or even quinoa if you want to make it more filling.

The Perfect All-Season Dinner

Though especially popular in autumn and winter, this Chicken, Leek and Butternut Squash Bake works year-round. It’s a go-to dish for busy weeknights when you want something cozy without the effort. It’s also a great dish to serve when hosting friends or family for dinner—it’s beautiful, flavorful, and looks like you’ve spent far more time on it than you actually did.

Plus, since it’s made with whole, unprocessed ingredients, it fits seamlessly into clean eating and slimming plans. Whether you’re eating for energy, weight loss, or just want a satisfying, feel-good meal, this recipe has got you covered.

Final Thoughts

The Chicken, Leek and Butternut Squash Bake is everything a home-cooked meal should be: easy, nutritious, and delicious. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a hug in a bowl—perfect for winding down after a long day. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned foodie, this dish is bound to earn a spot in your regular rotation.

Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s become a fan-favorite among health-conscious foodies and families alike. It’s comfort food done right—with love, flavor, and nourishment in every bite.

Conclusion

The Chicken, Leek and Butternut Squash Bake is the perfect example of how comfort food can still be healthy, flavorful, and easy to prepare. With its rich combination of tender chicken, naturally sweet butternut squash, and savory leeks all wrapped in a light, creamy sauce—this dish delivers on both taste and nutrition. It’s a meal that feels indulgent without the guilt, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or cozy weekends at home.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this bake is sure to satisfy and impress. Try it once, and it just might become a new staple in your kitchen.