Name: Creamy Coconut Butternut Squash Chicken Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes (about 6 cups); 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper, for seasoning; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 yellow onion, diced; 1 carrot, diced; 1 celery rib, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger (about 1-inch piece); 1 tablespoon yellow curry powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric; Dash of crushed red pepper flakes; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie recommended); 13.5 oz can full fat coconut milk; 1 cup chopped spinach; Pepitas, for garnish (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 3 reviews

If you’re craving a bowl of something truly comforting and packed with flavor, then you are going to love this Creamy Coconut Butternut Squash Chicken Soup Recipe. It’s a wonderfully cozy soup that brings together the sweetness of roasted butternut squash, the richness of creamy coconut milk, and the warmth of aromatic spices, all complemented by tender shredded chicken. This soup is not just nourishing but also filled with vibrant colors and textures, making it perfect for chilly days when you want something both hearty and soothing. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it might just become your new favorite go-to comfort food!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows many small cubes of roasted butternut squash scattered on a silver baking tray. The squash pieces are bright orange with light brown spots, showing they are cooked and slightly charred. The tray has some oil and seasoning visible, giving a shiny and textured look. The background features a white marbled surface and a blue cloth is partly visible in the lower right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe uses a handful of straightforward, wholesome ingredients that each play a starring role. From the naturally sweet butternut squash to the warm and fragrant spices, every component brings unique flair that elevates this soup to something special.

Medium butternut squash: Peeled and cubed, it adds natural sweetness and a creamy texture once roasted.
Olive oil: Used for roasting the squash and sautéing vegetables, it brings subtle richness and helps develop deep flavors.
Yellow onion, carrot, and celery: This classic trio forms the delicious base of the soup, providing savory depth and mild sweetness.
Garlic and fresh ginger: These fresh aromatics add a punch of warmth and zest.
Yellow curry powder: This spice blend’s earthy and slightly sweet notes give the soup its inviting complexity.
Salt, black pepper, ground cumin, turmeric, and crushed red pepper flakes: A perfectly balanced medley that seasons and adds layers of flavor.
Chicken broth: The savory liquid foundation that carries all the flavors together.
Shredded chicken: We love using rotisserie chicken for convenience and tenderness, giving you protein and heartiness.
Full-fat coconut milk: Adds luscious creaminess and a subtle tropical flair that makes this soup truly unique.
Chopped spinach: Tossed in at the end to brighten the soup with fresh green vibrancy.
Pepitas (pumpkin seeds), optional garnish: These add a delightful crunch and a nutty finish.

How to Make Creamy Coconut Butternut Squash Chicken Soup Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. Toss the peeled and cubed butternut squash in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread it out on a baking sheet. Roasting caramelizes the squash’s natural sugars, transforming it into a tender, slightly sweet base that forms the heart of this soup. Be sure to toss it halfway through to ensure even roasting.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

While the squash roasts, heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add diced onion, carrot, and celery, then sauté until they soften and start to develop sweetness, about five minutes. Then add minced garlic and cook for one more minute, releasing those wonderful aromas that signal the beginning of a delicious soup.

Step 3: Add Spices

Stir in freshly grated ginger, yellow curry powder, salt, black pepper, cumin, turmeric, and crushed red pepper flakes. These spices create a warm, earthy, and slightly spicy base that perfectly complements the creamy coconut and sweet squash. Cooking the spices briefly allows their flavors to bloom beautifully.

Step 4: Combine Squash, Broth, and Chicken

Add the roasted butternut squash, chicken broth, and shredded chicken to the pot. Stir everything together to mix the flavors, then bring the soup to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer with the lid slightly ajar for 10 to 15 minutes so all the ingredients meld perfectly.

Step 5: Finish with Coconut Milk and Spinach

Pour in the full-fat coconut milk and stir in chopped spinach. Simmer gently for another 3 to 5 minutes until the spinach wilts and the soup becomes luxuriously creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. This final step adds richness and a lovely fresh touch.

How to Serve Creamy Coconut Butternut Squash Chicken Soup Recipe

A white bowl filled with a creamy yellow soup that has chunks of orange squash, small pieces of light yellow tofu, and bits of bright green spinach. The soup is topped with scattered green pumpkin seeds and a sprinkle of red chili flakes. A spoon with a wooden handle rests inside the bowl on the right side. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface next to a white plate with dark cloth and two small white bowls containing more pumpkin seeds and chili flakes. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle pepitas on top for a fun crunch and a touch of nutty flavor. A few more crushed red pepper flakes add a little heat, if you like a bit of spice. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also brighten the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping or a light green salad to keep things fresh. A side of warm naan or pita is also fantastic if you want a little extra to scoop up every last drop.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in rustic bowls with a drizzle of coconut cream or a swirl of yogurt on top for a pretty finish. You can even ladle this soup into hollowed-out mini pumpkins or bread bowls for an eye-catching presentation that’s perfect for entertaining or special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup keeps really well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, so it tastes even better the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Keep in mind the spinach might lose some texture, so you could stir in fresh spinach when reheating.

Reheating

Warm the soup gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the soup thickened too much during storage, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. Avoid boiling after adding coconut milk to preserve creaminess.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! Simply substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and use chickpeas or tofu instead of chicken. The creamy coconut and spices will still provide plenty of flavor and satisfaction.

Is it okay to use canned butternut squash instead of fresh?

While fresh roasted squash offers the best flavor and texture, canned squash can work in a pinch. Just be sure to adjust seasonings since canned varieties may be softer and less sweet.

Can I use light coconut milk instead of full fat?

Yes, though full-fat coconut milk gives the richest, creamiest texture. Light coconut milk will work if you want a lower-fat option but expect the soup to be a little thinner and less decadent.

What other vegetables could I add?

Feel free to add sweet potatoes, bell peppers, or even some diced tomatoes for a twist. Keep the vegetable sizes consistent to ensure even cooking.

How spicy is this soup?

The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth, but it’s not overly spicy. You can adjust the amount based on your heat preference or leave them out entirely for a milder version.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Coconut Butternut Squash Chicken Soup Recipe is truly a hug in a bowl—full of comforting textures, vibrant flavors, and nourishing ingredients. It’s perfect for cozying up on cooler days or for sharing with family and friends. Give this recipe a try soon; I promise it will warm your heart and become a cherished favorite in your kitchen just like it is in mine!