This Crockpot Chicken and Butternut Squash Stew makes an easy and comforting lunch or dinner that’s perfect for the colder months! It’s gluten free, grain free, dairy free, paleo and whole 30.

There is nothing that’s quite as cozy and comforting than a soup, or in this case stew, on a cold day. This Crockpot Chicken and Butternut Squash Stew is made with a homemade butternut squash broth that is filled with flavor. The chicken and cauliflower rice slowly cook in the broth in the crockpot until the chicken is tender and juicy. This stew is finished off with the most delicious toppings-pecans, arugula and pomegranates. Not only will this stew warm you up but it will also please your taste buds!

What is the Difference Between Soup and Stew?

The difference between soup and stew is pretty simple. It all comes down to the amount of liquid that is added. A soup usually contains enough broth to allow the ingredients to float while a stew has just enough for the ingredients to simmer. I consider this Crockpot Chicken and Butternut Squash Stew recipe a stew and not a soup because it has less broth than a typical soup would have.

Crockpot Chicken and Butternut Squash Stew (Whole 30 & Paleo)

How to Cook Butternut Squash Stew

Step One: Make the broth

Cook the butternut squash in the microwave following the directions on the back of the bag. Add the butternut squash to the blender with the cinnamon, canned coconut milk, salt, pepper, cumin, crushed red pepper, ginger, cloves and water. Blend until it becomes a creamy consistency.

Step Two: Let the crockpot do its job

Place the chicken in the crockpot and pour the butternut squash broth over top. Cook on low for 6 hours.

Step Three: Add the toppings

When there is one hour left on the crockpot, shred the chicken and add in the cauliflower rice. When there is 30 minutes left, add the arugula and pecans to the crockpot. Serve in bowls and top with pomegranates.

What to Serve with Crockpot Chicken and Butternut Squash Stew?

This stew has enough ingredients that will keep you full without adding anything else to it. However, I am a sucker for eating bread with my soups and stews. If you are looking for an easy, delicious and healthy bread check out my Homemade Paleo & Nut Free Bread. It’s the perfect addition to this stew!

Can Stew Be Stored in the Freezer?

Each stew is different but this Chicken and Butternut Squash Stew can certainly be stored in the freezer. Just put the amount you want to save in a freezer Ziploc bag or airtight container and place it in the freezer. I have done this many times and love that I can just quickly pull out an already cooked meal from the freezer!

For More Crockpot Dinner Ideas, Check Out These Recipes…

This Crockpot Chicken and Butternut Squash Stew is one of those recipes that is packed with so many delicious flavors that you don’t even notice it’s filled with good for you ingredients! I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family does!

-Kelsey