Delicious Butternut Squash Soup with Chicken and Quinoa

This hearty and flavorful Butternut Squash Soup with Chicken and Quinoa is the perfect dish to warm you up on a cold day. Packed with nutritious ingredients like butternut squash, chicken, quinoa, and various vegetables, this soup is not only delicious but also a great source of vitamins and minerals. It's easy to make and can be enjoyed as a main course or a comforting side dish.

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Place the squash halves on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for about 45 minutes, or until the squash is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
3. While the squash is roasting, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the diced carrots, celery, and chicken to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides.
5. Pour in the chicken broth, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
6. Remove the roasted butternut squash from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Scoop out the flesh and add it to the pot with the soup. Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
7. Return the soup to the pot and stir in the cooked quinoa. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until heated through.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
9. Enjoy your delicious Butternut Squash, Chicken and Quinoa Soup!

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