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Autumn Chicken Dinner with Roasted Vegetables

A comforting and delicious Autumn Chicken Dinner featuring roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, combined with cheesy tortellini for a complete meal perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Seasonal
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Vegetables and Chicken
  • 3 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
  • 12 oz Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Pasta
  • 9 oz cheese tortellini
For the Sauce
  • 3 tablespoons butter

Method
 

Roasting the Seasonal Vegetables
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Spread it evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes.
  2. In a separate sheet, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast for 20-30 minutes until golden brown.
Preparing the Tortellini
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the water and set the cooked pasta aside until ready to combine.
Searing the Chicken
  1. Slice your chicken thighs into thin strips and season them with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat for 3 minutes. Add olive oil and sear the chicken in a single layer for 4 minutes without moving it to ensure a golden crust. Flip and cook until fully cooked through, then set aside.
Creating the Garlic Butter Sauce
  1. In the same empty skillet, melt the butter over low-medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and soft. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Combining and Serving
  1. Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet, tossing to coat in the garlic butter.
  2. Return the cooked chicken to the pan, then gently fold in your roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts.
  3. Top with fresh thyme, adjust seasoning, and serve immediately.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the dish for up to 3 months. Don’t rush the roasting; ensure the vegetables are tender and caramelized for the best flavor.
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