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.