Creamy Pumpkin Chicken Chili Hearty Fall Comfort Dish

As the leaves turn and the air gets cool, there’s nothing better than a warm bowl of Creamy Pumpkin Chicken Chili. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, rich pumpkin, and zesty spices, making it perfect for fall. With easy steps and tasty tips, you’ll impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the comforting goodness that will warm your heart and fill your home with delicious smells! Ready to cook?
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comforting Flavor: This chili combines the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin and spices, making it perfect for chilly evenings.
- Nutritious Ingredients: With the addition of pumpkin and black beans, this dish is packed with nutrients while being deliciously hearty.
- Easy to Prepare: The straightforward cooking process means you can whip up this dish quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it in fun ways, like in mini pumpkins or with crusty bread, to elevate your dining experience.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 can pumpkin puree (15 oz)
- 1 can black beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes in juice (15 oz)
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup heavy cream
The main ingredients in this creamy pumpkin chicken chili create a rich and hearty dish. The chicken provides protein, while the pumpkin adds creaminess and a slight sweetness. Black beans offer fiber and texture, and diced tomatoes add acidity. Onions and garlic give depth to the flavor, while chicken broth enriches the base. Finally, heavy cream brings it all together, making each bite smooth and satisfying.
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Spices turn a good chili into a great one. Chili powder adds warmth and depth. Ground cumin provides an earthy flavor, while smoked paprika introduces a mild smokiness. Salt and black pepper are essential for balancing all the flavors. These spices work together to create a comforting and fragrant chili that warms you up on chilly days.
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh cilantro leaves
For a pop of color and freshness, you can garnish your chili with fresh cilantro leaves. This herb brightens up the dish and adds a lovely contrast to the rich flavors. You can also serve the chili in hollowed-out mini pumpkins for a festive look. Pairing it with crusty bread makes it perfect for dipping.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Ingredients
First, you need to gather your ingredients. Start by dicing 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Next, finely dice 1 medium onion. Then, mince 3 cloves of garlic. These steps ensure the flavors blend well in your chili.
Cooking Process
Now, let’s cook! In a large pot or Dutch oven, pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion is soft and clear. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute, stirring often.
Next, raise the heat to medium-high. Carefully add the diced chicken to the pot. Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 2 teaspoons of chili powder, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Sauté the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes until it turns brown on all sides. Stir occasionally to cook evenly.
After browning the chicken, stir in the 15 ounces of pumpkin puree, 15 ounces of diced tomatoes with their juice, and 15 ounces of drained black beans. Pour in 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Increase the heat to bring everything to a gentle simmer. This step helps the flavors mix together.
Once simmering, reduce the heat to low. Let the chili cook for 20 minutes, stirring every so often. This prevents sticking and allows the ingredients to blend beautifully.
Final Steps
After 20 minutes, gently stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. This gives the chili a rich, creamy texture. Let it warm for an extra 5 minutes, tasting and adjusting the seasoning as needed. If you want, you can add more salt or spices to suit your taste. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this delightful dish!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Chili
To make the best chili, start with the right cooking time. After you sauté the onions and garlic, add the chicken. Cook it until brown, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds great flavor. Once you add the other ingredients, let the chili simmer gently for 20 minutes. This helps all the flavors mix well. Stir often to avoid sticking on the bottom of the pot. If you notice it sticking, lower the heat a bit.
Creamy Texture Tips
Achieving a creamy texture is simple. When you add the heavy cream, do it slowly. Stir gently to combine without curdling. If you stir too fast, the cream might separate. Let the chili warm up for a few minutes after adding the cream. This helps it stay smooth and creamy. Always taste your chili before serving. Adjust the salt and pepper as needed for the best flavor.
Presentation and Serving Suggestions
For an eye-catching presentation, serve your chili in hollowed-out mini pumpkins. It looks festive and fun! Pair it with crusty bread for dipping. This adds great texture and taste. You can also sprinkle some cumin on top for an extra touch. A few cilantro leaves will brighten the dish and add freshness. Enjoy your meal in a cozy setting, perfect for fall!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and spices to elevate the flavor of your chili. Fresh cilantro adds a vibrant touch to the final dish.
- Control the Heat: Adjust the spiciness by adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper if you like it hotter. Taste as you go!
- Make it Ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge for a quick meal later.
- Garnish Creatively: Beyond cilantro, consider topping with avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess and flavor contrast.

Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can easily change up the protein in this chili. Try using turkey or beef instead of chicken. These meats will still give you that hearty feel. If you’re looking for a different texture, swap in chickpeas or kidney beans for the black beans. For a lighter option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This will keep the flavors bright and fresh.
Spicy Version
If you love heat, you can spice things up! Add diced jalapeños right at the start with the onions. You can also mix in hot sauce when you add the heavy cream. Start with a little and taste as you go. This way, you can find the perfect heat level for your chili.
Vegetarian Adaptation
Want to go meatless? No problem! Just skip the chicken and add more veggies. Zucchini, bell peppers, or corn work great. You can also use lentils for a protein boost. They will add heartiness and soak up the chili’s flavors. This makes a filling meal even without meat.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store your creamy pumpkin chicken chili, use airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers work well. Let the chili cool down before sealing. It lasts in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. If you want to enjoy it later, freezing is a great option.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze the chili, first, let it cool completely. Transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label each bag with the date. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating Tips
Reheat the chili gently to keep it creamy. Use a saucepan over low heat. Stir often to avoid sticking. If it seems thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water. You can also microwave it in a bowl. Cover the bowl to keep moisture. Stir halfway through to warm evenly. Enjoy your comforting meal!
FAQs
Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! To make this chili in a slow cooker, start by sautéing the onion and garlic in a pan. Then, add everything to the slow cooker. Include the chicken, pumpkin puree, black beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and spices. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the heavy cream just before serving. This method allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
How can I make it dairy-free?
To make this chili dairy-free, simply swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. You can also use almond milk, but be mindful of its flavor. Just add it in the same way as the heavy cream. This keeps the chili rich and creamy without dairy.
What do I serve with Creamy Pumpkin Chicken Chili?
This chili pairs well with many sides. Here are some tasty options:
- Crusty bread for dipping
- Cornbread for a sweet touch
- A fresh salad to balance the flavors
- Rice or quinoa for added heartiness
These sides enhance the chili and make the meal more filling.
How spicy is this chili?
This chili has a mild to medium spice level. The chili powder and smoked paprika give it warmth without overwhelming heat. If you like spice, add more chili powder or toss in jalapeños. Adjust it to your taste for the perfect kick.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of puree?
Yes, fresh pumpkin works well! To use it, peel and chop the pumpkin into small cubes. Cook the pumpkin until soft, then blend it until smooth. You can also roast it for added flavor before blending. Use this fresh pumpkin in place of the canned puree.
This blog post covered how to make a delicious creamy pumpkin chicken chili. I shared the key ingredients, spices, and seasonings. You learned how to prepare, cook, and perfect this dish with easy tips. There are even fun variations and storage methods to keep your chili fresh.
Try it out and adapt the recipe to fit your taste. Enjoy your warm bowl of chili, and share it with friends or family for a cozy mea

Creamy Pumpkin Chicken Chili
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 can pumpkin puree (15 oz)
- 1 can black beans, drained and thoroughly rinsed (15 oz)
- 1 can diced tomatoes in juice (15 oz)
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- to taste salt and freshly ground black pepper
- for garnish fresh cilantro leaves (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, pour in the olive oil and place it over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and soft.
- Incorporate the minced garlic into the pot and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to release its fragrant aroma.
- Raise the heat to medium-high and carefully add the diced chicken into the pot. Season the chicken liberally with salt, fresh pepper, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Sauté the chicken for 5-7 minutes until it's browned on all sides, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Stir in the pumpkin puree, followed by the diced tomatoes with their juices, the black beans, and the chicken broth. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
- Once it reaches a simmer, reduce the heat to low. Allow the chili to cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to help the ingredients blend beautifully.
- After the 20 minutes have passed, gently stir in the heavy cream until it is fully combined and the chili takes on a creamy texture. Allow it to warm through for an additional 5 minutes, tasting and adjusting the seasoning if necessary.
- Serve the chili hot, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro, if desired, for an added touch of freshness.


![- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, thinly sliced - 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves, packed - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 2 red Thai chili peppers, thinly sliced (adjust based on your spice preference) For this dish, I prefer chicken breast. It cooks quickly and stays juicy. Fresh Thai basil gives this meal its unique flavor. Garlic adds a nice aroma, and Thai chili peppers bring heat. You can control the spice by adding more or less chili. - 2 tablespoons soy sauce - 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (or substitute with mushroom sauce for vegetarian) - 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or an extra tablespoon of soy sauce for vegetarian) - 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance flavors) - 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying) These sauces are key to great taste. Soy sauce offers saltiness, while oyster and fish sauces add depth. Sugar balances the salty flavors, making everything taste better. - 1 bell pepper, sliced (your choice of color for visual appeal) - 1 small onion, sliced into thin wedges - Optional: other vegetables for added nutrition I like using bell pepper and onion for color and crunch. You can add other veggies like carrots or snap peas. They bring more nutrition and flavor, making the dish more vibrant. For the full recipe, refer to the [Full Recipe]. To start, you need to combine the chicken with the sauces. In a medium bowl, add the sliced chicken breast, soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Mix these ingredients well so the chicken gets all the flavor. Let it marinate for 15 minutes. This short time helps the chicken absorb the tasty sauces. Next, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. You want the oil to shimmer before adding anything. Then, add the minced garlic and sliced Thai chili peppers. Stir-fry them for about 30 seconds until they smell amazing. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Now, add the marinated chicken to the pan. Spread it out evenly for even cooking. Stir-fry for about 5 to 7 minutes. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink and has a nice brown color. After that, toss in the sliced bell pepper and onion. Stir-fry for another 3 to 4 minutes. This will make the vegetables tender but still crisp. Once the chicken and veggies are done, take the skillet off the heat. Gently fold in the fresh Thai basil leaves. They will wilt quickly from the heat and add a lovely aroma. Serve the dish hot, over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice. This rice complements the stir-fry well. Enjoy your Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry! For the full recipe, check out the details above. Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference. Fresh Thai basil gives a sweet and fragrant flavor to the dish. Always choose bright green basil leaves. They should smell strong and sweet. The chicken should be fresh, too. This keeps your stir-fry tasty and safe to eat. For the best flavor, cook on high heat. A hot pan helps to sear the chicken. This adds a nice caramel color and enhances the taste. When you add garlic and chili, cook them quickly. This brings out their strong flavors without burning them. You can change the heat level easily. If you want it milder, remove the seeds from the chili peppers. You can also use fewer peppers or substitute with sweet bell peppers. If you like a kick but want it less spicy, try adding sugar. It balances the heat. You can also use a bit of honey for sweetness without heat. Pair your Thai basil chicken stir-fry with jasmine rice. The rice absorbs the sauce well. You can also add a side of steamed veggies for extra nutrition. For garnishes, consider adding lime wedges or crushed peanuts. They add color and crunch. Fresh cilantro or extra basil leaves also make it pop. Enjoy your meal with these simple touches! For the full recipe, check out the details above. {{image_4}} For a vegetarian or vegan version, you can swap chicken for tofu or tempeh. These options give a nice texture. Use mushroom sauce instead of oyster sauce. It brings depth and umami flavor. For the fish sauce, simply add an extra tablespoon of soy sauce. This keeps the taste bold. To maintain flavor, marinate the tofu or tempeh just like chicken. Allow it to soak up the sauces. When cooking, make sure to press out excess moisture. This helps achieve that nice, crispy texture we all love. If you want to try something new, switch the chicken for shrimp or beef. Shrimp cooks quickly, so cut down the cooking time to about 3-4 minutes. Beef takes longer. Slice it thin and cook it for about 6-8 minutes. Remember, cooking times change based on what protein you use. Always make sure your protein is fully cooked before adding in the veggies. Want to shake things up? Add sauces like teriyaki or sriracha for an exciting twist. Teriyaki gives a sweet flavor, while sriracha adds heat. You can even mix both for a sweet and spicy kick. Feel free to experiment with herbs and spices too. Adding cilantro or mint can brighten the dish. Try a sprinkle of lime juice for an extra zest. These tiny changes can create a whole new taste experience. For the full recipe, check the section above. Enjoy cooking! To keep your Thai basil chicken stir-fry fresh, store it in an airtight container. Refrigerate the leftovers within two hours of cooking. If you want to save it longer, freeze the stir-fry. Make sure to cool it completely before freezing. This method helps retain flavor and texture. When you reheat your stir-fry, use a skillet for the best results. Heat it over medium warmth and stir often. This keeps the chicken juicy and prevents it from drying out. For rice, add a splash of water and cover it. This helps the rice steam and become fluffy again. In the fridge, your Thai basil chicken stir-fry lasts up to four days. If frozen, it can last for about three months. Always check for off smells or changes in color. If you see these, it's best to discard it for safety. Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry has roots in Thai street food. This dish reflects the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine. It showcases fresh herbs, bold spices, and simple cooking techniques. Thai basil, known for its unique flavor, is key to this dish. It adds a sweet and slightly spicy note that enhances the chicken. This meal represents the balance of sweet, salty, and spicy tastes typical in Thai dishes. Each bite transports you to bustling markets in Thailand. Yes, you can prepare Thai basil chicken stir-fry in advance. Cook and store it in the fridge for up to three days. To keep it fresh, store it in an airtight container. When you are ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stove. This dish tastes even better the next day as flavors meld. Serve it over freshly cooked jasmine rice for a quick meal. If you cannot find Thai basil, you have options. Sweet basil or holy basil works well as a substitute. Sweet basil offers a milder flavor, while holy basil is spicier. You can also mix in a bit of mint for a fresh twist. While these substitutes change the taste slightly, they still create a tasty dish. Just remember, the flavor will differ from the original recipe. The spice level of Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry can vary. It depends on the number of Thai chili peppers you use. Typically, this dish has a mild to medium heat. If you prefer a milder dish, use fewer chilis or remove the seeds. For those who love heat, add extra chilis or a dash of hot sauce. Adjusting spice levels allows everyone to enjoy this flavorful meal. Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry is a simple yet flavorful dish. You learned about the key ingredients, like fresh basil and chicken. The step-by-step instructions make cooking easy, even for beginners. We explored tips to enhance flavor and adjust spice levels to suit your taste. You can even try fun variations with different proteins or herbs. Enjoy making it your own, and savor the fresh flavors. Every bite will bring joy to your table.](https://dishtreats.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/20a2f9de-1755-4b6a-ade1-393123d10e24-768x768.webp)




