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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Begin by gathering all ingredients and chopping the onion into small dice. Set aside.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Serve: Spoon the hot stew into bowls. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation. Enjoy this warm and aromatic fall dish.
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.
