Butternut Chicken and Banana Soup

Name: Butternut Chicken and Banana Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 medium butternut squash (peeled and cubed); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 large banana (ripe); 500 grams chicken breast (cubed); 4 cups chicken stock; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon curry powder

60 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

A delightful blend of butternut squash, chicken, and banana creates a creamy, comforting soup perfect for chilly days.

Prep

20 min

Cook

40 min

Total

60 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

This Butternut Chicken and Banana Soup is an unexpected but delicious combination that brings together the sweetness of ripe bananas with the earthy richness of butternut squash and the savoury depth of chicken. It's a fusion of flavours that might surprise you at first but quickly becomes a comforting favourite. The idea behind this soup is to create a dish that is not only nourishing but also unique in its flavour profile. Perfect for those who love to experiment in the kitchen, this soup offers a creamy texture without the need for cream, thanks to the bananas. Ideal for a cozy family dinner or a warming lunch, this soup is sure to delight anyone who tries it.

Instructions

Roast the squash

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes until tender and caramelized.

Pro tip: Roasting enhances the squash's natural sweetness.

Cook the chicken

In a large pot, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken cubes and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Pro tip: Ensure the chicken is cooked through before adding other ingredients.

Sauté the aromatics

Add the onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3 minutes.

Combine ingredients

Add the roasted squash, banana, chicken stock, and curry powder to the pot. Stir well to combine.

Simmer the soup

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.

Pro tip: This allows the flavours to meld together.

Blend the soup

Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer to a blender in batches.

Pro tip: Be cautious when blending hot liquids.

Adjust seasoning

Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.

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Tips & Tricks

Use a ripe banana for natural sweetness and creaminess.
Roast the squash for added depth of flavour.
Adjust the consistency by adding more stock if preferred.
Garnish with fresh herbs for a burst of colour and flavour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is butternut chicken and banana soup?

It's a unique soup that combines roasted butternut squash, chicken, and ripe bananas for a creamy and sweet-savoury flavour.

How many calories are in butternut chicken and banana soup?

Each serving of this soup contains approximately 320 calories.

Can I make butternut chicken and banana soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for longer storage.

What can I serve with butternut chicken and banana soup?

It pairs well with crusty bread or a simple green salad.

How do I store leftover butternut chicken and banana soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for up to three months.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Butternut Chicken and Banana Soup with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad to make it a complete meal. The soup is hearty enough to stand alone but also pairs well with a light white wine. You can make this soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. It also freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep. Simply reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of stock if it thickens too much upon reheating.