This Chicken with Pumpkin and Mushrooms is the perfect comfort food for cooler weather. The tender chicken is seared until golden brown and combined with seasonal pumpkin and earthy mushrooms. Cooked in a savory broth with a touch of cream, this dish is full of rich flavors that pair beautifully with mashed potatoes. Whether you’re looking for a cozy family dinner or a dish to impress guests, this hearty meal is sure to satisfy.

Chicken with Pumpkin and Mushrooms
Chicken with pumpkin and mushrooms | Myhomemaderecipe.com

This Chicken with Pumpkin and Mushrooms is the perfect fall comfort food. It brings together tender chicken, sweet pumpkin, and earthy mushrooms in a creamy, savory sauce that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need for this hearty dish!

INGREDIENTS

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (2 large): Cut into thinner fillets, they cook quickly and absorb all the rich flavors.
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Season the chicken for added flavor.
  • Fresh thyme (1 tablespoon) or dried thyme (½ teaspoon): Adds a fragrant herbal note to the dish.
  • Olive oil (2 tablespoons, divided): Used for browning the chicken and sautéing the vegetables.
  • Flour (3 tablespoons, divided): Coats the chicken, helping to thicken the sauce and give the chicken a nice crust.
  • Mushrooms (4 cups, sliced or quartered): Add an earthy, savory flavor that pairs well with the pumpkin and chicken.
  • Onion (1 small, chopped): Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
  • Butter (3 tablespoons, divided): Adds richness to the dish, especially when cooking the pumpkin.
  • Pumpkin (2 cups, cubed): Adds a touch of sweetness and a seasonal twist to the dish.
  • Vegetable or chicken broth (2½ cups): Forms the base of the savory sauce, adding depth to the flavor.
  • Cream (½ cup): Adds richness and a creamy texture to the sauce.
  • Chopped parsley (1 tablespoon): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish to the dish.
  • Mashed potatoes (for serving): Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce and making this dish even more comforting.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:
Cut each chicken breast into 2 thinner fillets. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Place the chicken in a Ziploc bag, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and add 2 tablespoons of flour. Shake the bag to coat the chicken evenly. Set aside.
Step 2:
Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken fillets and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, until lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside on a plate.
Step 3:
In the same pot, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and cook the mushrooms and onions for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are browned. Remove from the pot and set aside in a bowl.
Step 4:
Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the pot, then add the cubed pumpkin. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pumpkin begins to soften slightly.
Step 5:
Return the chicken fillets to the pot with the pumpkin. Cook together for 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Step 6:
Add the broth to the pot and bring it to a boil. The chicken does not need to be completely submerged. Cover the pot and cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender.
Step 7:
In a separate bowl, mix a few tablespoons of the broth with the cream to temper it. Slowly add the cream mixture to the pot with the chicken, stirring to combine.
Step 8:
Add the parsley, mushrooms, and onions back to the pot. Stir everything together gently and cook uncovered for 1 minute until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 9:
Serve the chicken, pumpkin, and mushrooms over mashed potatoes, allowing the creamy sauce to cover everything.

Serving and Storage Tips

  • This dish is best served hot, over mashed potatoes, for a comforting meal. The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with the soft mashed potatoes.
  • If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
  • This recipe works well as a make-ahead meal for busy weeknights. Simply prepare it ahead of time and reheat when ready to serve.

Helpful Notes

  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer the broth a little longer before adding the cream.
  • Make sure to use fresh or good-quality pumpkin for the best flavor. You can also substitute butternut squash if pumpkin is not available.
  • For an added depth of flavor, try using fresh thyme instead of dried thyme.

Tips from well-known chefs

  • Chef Jamie recommends adding a splash of white wine to the broth for extra richness.
  • Chef Alex suggests adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top when serving for a deliciously cheesy twist.

WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE

  • The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and seasonal pumpkin makes this dish a perfect fall comfort food.
  • It's easy to prepare and comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a great weeknight dinner option.
  • The flavors are rich and comforting, perfect for cooler weather and cozy nights at home.

VARIATIONS

  • If you're looking for a lower-carb option, serve this dish over cauliflower mash instead of mashed potatoes.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute the cream with coconut milk for a slightly different but equally delicious flavor.
  • Feel free to add additional vegetables like carrots or spinach for more color and nutrients.
Chicken with Pumpkin and Mushrooms
Chicken with Pumpkin and Mushrooms | Myhomemaderecipe.com