Savor the flavors of fall with this rich and comforting Creamy Pumpkin and Chicken recipe. Made in one pot with simple ingredients like tender chicken, pumpkin purée, garlic, cream, and herbs, it's the perfect cozy dinner that’s both easy and nourishing.
Creamy Pumpkin and Chicken Recipe (Easy, Hearty & Full of Flavor)
If you’re looking for a comforting, creamy, and deeply satisfying dinner recipe that celebrates pumpkin in a savory way—this Creamy Pumpkin and Chicken is a must-try. It’s rich, full of warm spices, tender chicken, and velvety pumpkin cream sauce. Best of all? It’s all made in one pot and can be served over rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or even eaten with a crusty slice of bread.
Let’s dive into this nourishing dish that’s not just for fall—it’s a year-round comfort meal.
Ingredients
For 4 servings:
Chicken:
- 500g (1.1 lbs.) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Sauce:
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for depth)
- 1 ½ cups (360 ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
- ¾ cup (180 ml) heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk
- ¼ cup grated parmesan (optional for added richness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or sage
- Red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season and Cook the Chicken
Start by seasoning the diced chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. In a large skillet or pot, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and sauté for 5–7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, add 1 tbsp of butter. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add garlic and thyme and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Spices and Pumpkin
Stir in ground nutmeg and smoked paprika. Add the pumpkin purée and mix well to combine with the onions and spices. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to deepen the flavor.
4. Make it Creamy
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. If you're using parmesan cheese, add it now and stir until melted and incorporated.
5. Return Chicken to the Pot
Return the cooked chicken (and any juices) back into the pot. Stir to coat the chicken in the creamy pumpkin sauce. Let everything simmer together for 5–7 minutes to thicken and allow the flavors to meld.
6. Adjust Seasoning
Taste the sauce and add more salt or pepper if needed. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this creamy chicken over cooked basmati rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
- For a low-carb option, spoon it over cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles.
- Add sautéed greens like spinach or kale for extra nutrition.
Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the sauce (without dairy) for up to 2 months. Add cream when reheating.
- Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Tips & Variations
- Use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to cut down on cooking time.
- Add veggies: Toss in baby spinach, cooked mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers for added texture and nutrients.
- Make it dairy-free: Use coconut cream and skip the parmesan.
- Add crunch: Top with roasted pumpkin seeds or crispy bacon bits before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One pot = fewer dishes!
- Perfect blend of savory, creamy, and subtly sweet flavors.
- Ideal for fall but satisfying all year round.
- Family-friendly and customizable for picky eaters.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Pumpkin and Chicken recipe is everything cozy dinners should be—rich, hearty, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re hosting friends or just need a quick comforting meal after work, this dish will warm your soul and impress your taste buds. Don't forget to garnish with fresh herbs for that perfect finishing touch!
Have you tried this recipe?
Leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out for you.