Fall Chicken and Pumpkin Stew Recipe

When the crisp air settles in and the leaves turn golden, nothing warms the soul quite like a comforting bowl of stew. This Fall Chicken and Pumpkin Stew Recipe brings together tender shredded chicken and creamy pumpkin, spiced just right with cinnamon and thyme, creating a cozy dish that captures the essence of autumn in every bite. It’s not only hearty and satisfying but also a brilliant way to enjoy seasonal flavors with minimal fuss.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients come together beautifully in this stew, each playing a vital role in crafting its rich flavor and inviting texture. From the savory notes of sautéed garlic to the natural sweetness of pumpkin, every element is essential.

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Using leftover roasted chicken makes this recipe quick and adds savory depth.
• 1 cup canned pumpkin (unsweetened preferred): Brings velvety texture and a subtle sweetness perfect for fall.
• 1 small onion, diced: Provides a flavorful base and aroma when sautéed.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a rich, fragrant layer that uplifts the stew.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Warm spice that complements pumpkin beautifully without overpowering.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Infuses an earthy herbal note that balances the sweetness.
• 2 cups chicken broth: The liquid foundation to simmer everything, creating a luscious sauce.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors into harmony.

How to Make Fall Chicken and Pumpkin Stew Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering everything you need and chopping that onion into small, even dice. This ensures a consistent cook and lets the onion melt into the stew, providing a subtle sweetness as it softens.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Sauté the diced onion in a little oil over medium heat until it becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for just another minute. This step unlocks the savory base flavor that makes the stew irresistible.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Transfer the aromatic onion and garlic mixture into your slow cooker. Add the shredded chicken, pumpkin, cinnamon, thyme, and chicken broth. Stir everything gently but thoroughly, ensuring all the flavors mingle together perfectly.

Step 4: Slow Simmer for Maximum Flavor

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Let the stew simmer slowly for about 6 hours. This slow cook time lets the flavors develop deeply and the broth thicken to a comforting consistency that wraps you in warmth with every spoonful.

Step 5: Season and Finish

Once your stew has simmered to tender perfection, remove the lid and taste. Season with salt and black pepper according to your preference, then stir gently. If you want a thicker stew, let it cook uncovered for another 10 minutes – this concentrates the flavors beautifully.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the hot Fall Chicken and Pumpkin Stew Recipe into bowls, ready to nourish and delight. This is the moment where all your prep transforms into a cozy, soul-satisfying meal.

How to Serve Fall Chicken and Pumpkin Stew Recipe

Garnishes

To add a final touch, sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or thyme leaves on top. This not only brightens the look but also adds a fresh contrast that lifts the rich stew.

Side Dishes

This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls, perfect for dipping into the thick, fragrant broth. A simple side salad with crisp greens can add a fresh and light balance to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming autumnal presentation, serve the stew inside hollowed-out mini pumpkins or rustic bread bowls. It creates a festive feel and makes the dining experience even more special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, it stays delicious for up to 3 days, making it an easy option for next-day meals.

Freezing

This Fall Chicken and Pumpkin Stew Recipe freezes wonderfully. Place portions into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags and freeze for up to 3 months. It’s a great way to have a comforting, homemade meal ready in a pinch.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. You can add a splash of broth or water if the stew has thickened too much. Avoid microwave reheating to maintain texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh pumpkin works well if you roast or boil it first until tender, then mash it before adding. Just ensure it’s cooked fully to get that smooth texture the stew is known for.

Is it possible to make this stew on the stovetop?

Yes, you can simmer the stew in a large pot over low heat for about 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This method requires more attention but still yields delicious results.

What can I substitute for chicken broth?

If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, vegetable broth or even water with added herbs can work. Just keep in mind these substitutions may slightly alter the flavor depth.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, swap the chicken for hearty beans or lentils, and use vegetable broth. This will create a similarly comforting stew with plenty of protein and flavor.

How spicy is the stew? Can I add heat?

The stew is mild and aromatic with warm spices like cinnamon and thyme. If you enjoy a kick, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped chili flakes during cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Fall Chicken and Pumpkin Stew Recipe is a delightful way to savor the flavors of the season with minimal effort and maximum comfort. Give it a try on a cool day and watch how it effortlessly becomes a beloved staple in your meal rotation. Warm, hearty, and satisfying – it’s everything you want from a perfect autumn dinner.

Fall Chicken and Pumpkin Stew Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 47 reviews

• Author: Emma
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
• Total Time: 6 hours 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Stew
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

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Description

This Fall Chicken and Pumpkin Stew is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for chilly autumn days. Combining shredded chicken, creamy pumpkin, warm spices like cinnamon and thyme, and a rich broth, it simmers slowly in a slow cooker to meld the flavors beautifully. This stew is both flavorful and nutritious, offering a delicious way to enjoy seasonal ingredients in a wholesome meal.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (leftover roasted chicken works well)
• 1 cup canned pumpkin (unsweetened preferred)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (fresh or dried)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients: Begin by gathering all ingredients and chopping the onion into small dice. Set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, ensuring it becomes fragrant but not browned.
3. Combine in Slow Cooker: Transfer the cooked onion and garlic into a slow cooker. Add shredded chicken, canned pumpkin, ground cinnamon, dried thyme, and chicken broth. Stir all ingredients together until well combined.
4. Cook Stew: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to low. Let the stew simmer for about 6 hours, allowing flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken and become tender.
5. Adjust Seasoning and Thickness: After 6 hours, open the lid and season the stew with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir gently. If you prefer a thicker stew, cook uncovered for an additional 10 minutes.
6. Serve: Spoon the hot stew into bowls. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation. Enjoy this warm and aromatic fall dish.

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Notes

• Use leftover roasted chicken for convenience and added flavor.
• If fresh thyme is unavailable, dried thyme works perfectly.
• Adjust the seasoning at the end to suit your taste preferences.
• For a creamier texture, you can blend a small portion of the stew before serving.
• This stew pairs well with crusty bread or over cooked grains like rice or quinoa.