Autumnal Pumpkin Chicken Chili

As the leaves begin to change and a crisp coolness fills the air, there’s a unique warmth and comfort that only a hearty bowl of chili can provide. This isn’t just any chili; it’s a delightful Pumpkin Chicken Chili, a unique and innovative twist on a beloved classic. Combining succulent chicken, the subtle, earthy sweetness of pumpkin, and a thoughtfully curated blend of aromatic spices, this recipe creates an unforgettable symphony of flavors that dances on your palate with every spoonful. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of autumn, perfect for cozy family dinners, spirited game-day gatherings, or any occasion where you crave comforting, wholesome food. This chili promises to be a new seasonal favorite, offering a fresh perspective on fall flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds and eagerly anticipating your next culinary creation.

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When autumn arrives, the culinary world seems to echo with one magnificent ingredient: pumpkin! From lattes to desserts, pumpkin truly shines, and there’s no better way to embrace its cozy essence than by incorporating it into a savory, warming dish like chili. While many associate soups and chili with colder months, I firmly believe these comforting meals are perfect year-round. This Pumpkin Chicken Chili, in particular, transcends seasons. It’s the ultimate comfort food, deeply satisfying and incredibly versatile. The blend of tender chicken, robust beans, and the creamy sweetness of pumpkin creates a rich, complex flavor that is both familiar and exciting. And let’s not forget the magic of leftovers – this homemade chili only gets better with time, making it a meal you’ll genuinely look forward to reheating the next day! It’s a dish that not only nourishes the body but also warms the soul, making it an indispensable part of your recipe repertoire for any season.

Introduction to Pumpkin Chicken Chili

Chili holds a special place in the hearts of many as the quintessential comfort food. It’s a dish that evokes images of cozy evenings, lively gatherings, and satisfying warmth. But what happens when you infuse this beloved dish with the subtle sweetness and creamy texture of pumpkin? You get an extraordinary creation: Pumpkin Chicken Chili. This recipe takes everything you love about traditional chili – its heartwarming spice, its satisfying substance, and its incredible versatility – and elevates it with an autumnal twist. It’s a fantastic way to introduce a unique flavor profile to your meal rotation, proving that pumpkin isn’t just for pies and lattes. The combination of tender chicken, robust beans, vibrant vegetables, and the star ingredient, pumpkin puree, makes this chili incredibly flavorful and surprisingly balanced. It’s an ideal meal for those cool evenings when you want something that feels both wholesome and indulgently delicious.

This Pumpkin Chicken Chili recipe offers a fresh take on a classic, making it approachable for both seasoned cooks and kitchen newcomers. We’ll guide you through each step, from selecting the best ingredients to mastering the perfect simmer, ensuring your chili is not only easy to make but also exceptionally tasty. Prepare to impress your family and friends with this innovative and utterly delightful fall-inspired dish!

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Chicken Chili

There are countless reasons why this Pumpkin Chicken Chili deserves a spot in your weekly meal plan, making it a standout choice for your next family dinner or gathering. Firstly, its unique flavor profile truly sets it apart from typical chili recipes. The pumpkin adds a creamy texture and a mild, earthy sweetness that perfectly complements the savory chicken and the invigorating heat from the chili seasoning. It’s a harmonious blend that creates a more complex, nuanced, and utterly delicious taste experience that will surprise and delight your palate.

Secondly, this chili is incredibly wholesome and packed with nutrients, making it a fantastic healthy choice. Pumpkin is a powerhouse of vitamins (especially Vitamin A), minerals, and antioxidants, contributing significantly to your well-being. Coupled with lean chicken, which provides high-quality protein, and fiber-rich beans and fresh vegetables, this chili is a complete and nutritious meal designed to keep you feeling full, energized, and satisfied. It’s a clever and delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet and boost your intake of beneficial nutrients without ever feeling like you’re sacrificing flavor or comfort.

Thirdly, this particular chili recipe is remarkably versatile and adaptable, allowing you to customize it to your exact preferences and dietary needs. Whether you prefer it spicier or milder, with more vegetables, or if you need to adjust the bean content, the recipe can be easily modified to suit your taste. It’s also an exceptional dish for meal prepping, as it reheats beautifully and often tastes even better the next day, once the flavors have had more time to meld and develop. The sheer convenience of having a delicious, homemade meal ready to go makes busy weekdays significantly easier. Finally, its comforting and inviting nature makes it the perfect dish for almost any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner with loved ones to a festive gathering with friends and family. This Pumpkin Chicken Chili truly embodies the spirit of comfort food while offering a gourmet touch, making it an indispensable addition to your culinary repertoire.

Essential Ingredients for Pumpkin Chicken Chili

Crafting a truly exceptional Pumpkin Chicken Chili begins with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the layered flavors and satisfying texture of this autumnal dish. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why these ingredients are crucial for creating a memorable chili:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: These are ideal for their lean protein content and their ability to readily absorb the rich, savory flavors of the chili. Cutting them into uniform ½ to 1-inch cubes ensures even cooking and guarantees tender, bite-sized pieces throughout the dish. For an even richer flavor profile, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used as an alternative.
• 100% Pure Pumpkin Puree: This is the undeniable star ingredient that gives our chili its unique character. It imparts a subtle, earthy sweetness and a wonderful creamy consistency. Be sure to choose 100% pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling, as the latter contains added sugars and spices that would alter the savory balance of the chili.
• Chopped Aromatics (Onions, Garlic): These form the foundational flavor base of almost any great chili. Sautéing finely chopped onions until they become translucent releases their natural sweetness, while adding minced garlic infuses the entire dish with a pungent, aromatic depth that is absolutely essential.
• Vibrant Bell Peppers (Green & Red): Beyond adding eye-catching color, bell peppers contribute a crisp-tender texture and a fresh, slightly sweet flavor. Using both green and red peppers offers a beautiful contrast, a broader spectrum of nutrients, and a more complex vegetable background.
• Chicken Broth: A good quality chicken broth is essential. It serves multiple purposes: deglazing the pot to capture all the delicious browned bits from the chicken and vegetables, and creating the initial liquid base for the chili. It helps combine all the flavors seamlessly and adds moisture without making the chili overly thin.
• Diced Tomatoes and Chilies (Canned): Ingredients like canned diced tomatoes with chilies (often found as Rotel) add a wonderful tanginess and a hint of spice, complementing the other flavors perfectly. It’s crucial not to drain them, as the liquid contributes significantly to the chili’s overall consistency and flavor.
• Chili Beans (Canned): These beans, often pre-seasoned, bring a classic chili flavor and a satisfying heartiness. If you enjoy a bit of heat, choosing medium-spiced chili beans will give your chili an extra kick without being overpowering.
• Black Beans (Canned): Drained black beans add another layer of pleasant texture and earthy flavor to the chili. They are also a fantastic source of fiber and protein, making the meal even more filling and nutritious.
• Tomato Paste (Optional): For those who appreciate a more robust, deeply savory, and traditional chili flavor that stands alongside the pumpkin, tomato paste is a great addition. However, if you want the delicate pumpkin flavor to truly shine through as the dominant note, you might consider omitting it.
• Cream Cheese: This is a wonderful secret ingredient that adds incredible creaminess and a subtle, tangy richness, enhancing the overall body and balance of the chili. For a dairy-free alternative that achieves a similar creamy effect, 1 cup of full-fat coconut milk can be used.
• Homemade Chili Seasoning Blend: A thoughtfully balanced blend of chili powder, cumin, dried oregano, salt, and pepper is fundamental to the chili’s signature taste. You have the flexibility to adjust the proportions to your personal liking. For an extra spicy kick, a touch of red cayenne pepper can be added to this blend.

Gathering these high-quality, flavorful ingredients will undoubtedly set you up for success in creating a Pumpkin Chicken Chili that is both comforting and extraordinarily delicious, sure to become a cherished recipe.

How to Make Pumpkin Chicken Chili

Making this delightful Pumpkin Chicken Chili is a straightforward and enjoyable process, resulting in a rich, flavorful, and wonderfully comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Follow these detailed steps meticulously to ensure a truly satisfying and perfectly executed dish:

1. Prepare Your Pot and Sear the Chicken: Begin by placing a Dutch oven or a large, heavy-bottomed stock pot on your stovetop over medium-high heat. Allow the pot to heat thoroughly for a few minutes. Once hot, add one teaspoon of olive oil. Introduce your cubed boneless, skinless chicken breasts, ensuring they are cut into uniform ½ to 1-inch pieces. Season the chicken generously with half of your prepared homemade chili seasoning blend. Cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is no longer pink on the outside and has developed a light golden-brown sear. This initial searing helps to lock in moisture and build flavor. Remove the seared chicken from the pot and set it aside in a clean bowl.
2. Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables: If the bottom of your pot appears dry after removing the chicken, add an additional teaspoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onions, green peppers, and red peppers to the pot. Sauté these vibrant vegetables for several minutes, stirring frequently, until they become soft, tender, and fragrant. This step is crucial for developing the foundational flavors of your chili.
3. Infuse with Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook for just one minute more, or until the garlic becomes wonderfully aromatic. Be vigilant and stir continuously to prevent the garlic from burning, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to your chili.
4. Deglaze the Pot and Combine Ingredients: Pour in the ½ cup of chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon to vigorously scrape up any browned bits (known as fond) that have accumulated on the bottom of the pot. This deglazing process is essential for incorporating all the caramelized flavors back into your chili. Return the seared chicken to the pot. Now, add the 15 oz can of 100% pure pumpkin puree, the 15 oz can of diced tomatoes and chilies (do not drain, as the liquid is important), the drained 15 oz can of black beans, the undrained 15 oz can of chili beans (choose your preferred spice level), and the optional 6 oz can of tomato paste (if using). Stir all these ingredients together thoroughly until they are well combined. Add the remaining half of your chili seasoning blend at this stage.
5. Simmer to Perfection: Bring the entire mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot tightly, and let the chili gently simmer for 15 minutes. This crucial simmering time allows all the diverse flavors to meld, deepen, and harmonize beautifully, creating a rich and complex taste.
6. Achieve Creamy Richness: After the simmering period, remove the lid from the pot. Add the 4 oz of cream cheese, cut into smaller pieces if it’s a solid block, to the hot chili. Stir continuously and gently until the cream cheese is completely melted and smoothly incorporated into the chili, creating a wonderfully creamy and velvety texture. If you opted to substitute with coconut milk, add 1 cup of it at this stage and stir until heated through.
7. Cool and Serve: For best flavor and consistency, allow the Pumpkin Chicken Chili to cool slightly before serving. This brief resting period allows the flavors to settle and become even more pronounced. Ladle the warm, hearty chili into bowls and prepare to savor a truly comforting and uniquely delicious meal!

Using Shredded Chicken in Your Chili

While this recipe traditionally calls for cubed chicken, using shredded chicken is a fantastic alternative that can save time and introduce a different, wonderfully tender texture to your Pumpkin Chicken Chili. This method is particularly convenient if you have leftover cooked chicken or if you prefer to prepare the chicken component ahead of time.

To prepare shredded chicken from scratch, you have a couple of excellent options:

• Slow Cooker Method: Place your boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for a richer flavor) into your slow cooker. Add 1 cup of chicken broth. Cook on High for 4 hours or on Low for 8 hours. The chicken will be incredibly tender and easy to shred.
• Instant Pot Method: Place your chicken breasts/thighs in the Instant Pot with 1 cup of chicken broth. Cook for 10 minutes on Manual (High-Pressure Cooking). Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the steam to naturally release for 10 minutes before carefully opening the lid.

Once the chicken is cooked using either method, remove it from the pot and shred it easily using two forks. It should pull apart with minimal effort. You can then incorporate this pre-shredded chicken into the chili during step 5 of the main instructions, along with the pumpkin puree, diced tomatoes, and beans. This ensures your chicken is perfectly cooked and infused with moisture, integrating seamlessly into the creamy chili base.

Another excellent shortcut for busy days is to utilize a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Simply shred the meat from a store-bought rotisserie chicken and add it to your chili during the simmering phase (step 5). This makes the entire recipe even quicker to prepare without sacrificing any of that delicious, comforting flavor. No matter which method you choose, shredded chicken provides a wonderfully satisfying and tender texture that enhances every spoonful of your Pumpkin Chicken Chili.

Can You Omit the Beans from Chili?

Absolutely! The wonderful thing about homemade chili, and this Pumpkin Chicken Chili recipe in particular, is its incredible flexibility and adaptability. While beans contribute a delightful texture, a satisfying heartiness, and a significant nutritional boost of fiber and protein, some individuals prefer their chili without them. This could be due to personal preference, a low-carb or ketogenic dietary plan, or simply wanting to try a different variation of chili.

If you choose to omit the beans from this recipe, you’ll be pleased to know that you won’t need to make any complex or significant modifications to the rest of the ingredients or cooking process. The chili will remain incredibly flavorful and satisfying, thanks to the rich combination of chicken, the creamy pumpkin, and the generous blend of aromatic spices. Without the beans, the chili might have a slightly thinner consistency, but the natural thickness provided by the pumpkin puree and the cream cheese (if you’re including it) will still ensure a lovely, creamy base.

For those following a keto diet, omitting the beans is a necessary step to reduce carbohydrate content. In such cases, you would also need to ensure you omit the tomato paste, as it can add extra carbs, and carefully check the carbohydrate content of your diced tomatoes. The natural carbohydrates in pumpkin are generally acceptable in moderation for keto, but always cross-reference with your specific macro goals. Regardless of your reason, feel free to customize this Pumpkin Chicken Chili to perfectly match your preferences and dietary needs!

Tips for Thickening Your Chili

Achieving the perfect, thick, and hearty consistency is often the hallmark of a truly satisfying bowl of chili. While this Pumpkin Chicken Chili recipe is designed to be robust and rich, there are a few considerations and tricks to ensure it’s not too watery. The primary strategy for a thick chili begins with mindful liquid management from the very start of the cooking process. I specifically recommend using only about ½ cup of chicken broth in this recipe, as the majority of the necessary liquid for simmering and flavor infusion comes naturally from the undrained diced tomatoes and chilies and the optional tomato paste.

As the chili simmers, some of the liquid will naturally reduce through evaporation, and the starches released from the beans and pumpkin will inherently contribute to its thickening. However, if after the simmering phase you find your chili is still thinner than your ideal consistency, here are a few effective and easy-to-implement tips:

• Simmer Longer, Uncovered: The simplest and most natural way to thicken chili is to continue simmering it, but this time, remove the lid. Allowing the chili to simmer uncovered for an additional 10-20 minutes (or longer, if needed) will enable more excess liquid to evaporate, resulting in a naturally thicker consistency. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent any sticking to the bottom of the pot.
• Mash Some Beans: If your chili includes beans, try mashing about ½ to 1 cup of them directly against the side of the pot with a sturdy spoon or a potato masher. The starches released from the mashed beans will act as a natural thickener, adding body to the chili without altering its flavor profile significantly.
• Add More Pumpkin Puree: If you adore the pumpkin flavor, incorporating an extra tablespoon or two of pumpkin puree can wonderfully thicken the chili. Pumpkin puree naturally has a thick consistency, so it’s a great way to add body while enhancing the signature taste.
• Cornmeal or Masa Harina Slurry: For a quick and traditional chili thickening method, create a slurry by mixing 1-2 tablespoons of fine cornmeal or masa harina with an equal amount of cold water until smooth. Slowly stir this mixture into the simmering chili and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes. This will significantly thicken the chili and also contribute a subtle, pleasant corn flavor.
• Flour or Cornstarch Slurry: Similar to cornmeal, a slurry made from 1-2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour or cornstarch mixed with an equal amount of cold water can be stirred into the chili. Cook for at least 5 minutes after adding, as flour needs time to cook out to avoid a raw taste and ensure proper thickening. Cornstarch provides a clearer, glossier finish.
• Adjust Initial Liquid Next Time: For future batches, if you consistently find your chili too thin, consider slightly reducing the initial amount of chicken broth. Alternatively, ensure your canned diced tomatoes and chilies are well-drained if you prefer a very thick chili from the outset.

By keeping these practical tips in mind, you can effortlessly customize the consistency of your Pumpkin Chicken Chili to your perfect preference, ensuring every bowl is hearty and satisfying.

Delicious Topping Ideas for Chili

While this Pumpkin Chicken Chili is undeniably flavorful and satisfying on its own, a thoughtfully chosen selection of fresh and vibrant toppings can truly elevate it to a gourmet experience. Toppings add not only exciting textures and complementary flavors but also a beautiful visual appeal, allowing everyone at the table to customize their bowl to absolute perfection. Here are some fantastic ideas to enhance your chili and make each spoonful an adventure:

• Shredded Cheese: A timeless classic for a reason! A generous sprinkle of sharp cheddar, creamy Monterey Jack, or a zesty Mexican blend melts beautifully into the warm chili, adding a delightful salty and creamy counterpoint that enhances every bite.
• Sour Cream or Plain Greek Yogurt: A cool, tangy dollop of either sour cream or plain Greek yogurt provides a refreshing contrast to the chili’s warmth and spices. Greek yogurt offers a slightly tangier and often healthier alternative, while still delivering that desired creamy richness.
• Fresh Jalapeños: Thinly sliced fresh jalapeños introduce a bright, zesty, and spicy kick, along with a satisfying crunch. For those who prefer less heat, simply remove the seeds and white membranes before slicing.
• Cooked and Crumbled Bacon: Crispy bacon bits add an irresistible smoky, salty, and savory texture that perfectly complements the hearty notes of the chili. It’s a decadent addition that takes the flavor profile to the next level.
• Sliced or Diced Avocado: Creamy, cool, and nutrient-rich avocado adds a wonderful healthy fat, a lovely smooth texture that contrasts with the chili’s components, and effectively helps to mellow out any intense heat.
• Fresh Cilantro: A scattering of freshly chopped cilantro provides a burst of herbaceous freshness and a vibrant green color that brightens the entire dish, cutting through the richness.
• Green Onions/Scallions: Thinly sliced green onions (scallions) offer a mild, crisp onion flavor and a delicate crunch, adding both taste and visual appeal.
• Tortilla Strips or Crushed Tortilla Chips: For a delightful crunch and a hint of salty, savory goodness, these are perfect for sprinkling over the top or for dipping directly into the chili.
• Hot Sauce: For those who simply can’t get enough heat, a thoughtful drizzle of your favorite hot sauce is always a welcome addition to personalize the spice level.

Don’t hesitate to experiment and mix and match these delightful toppings to discover your ultimate favorite combinations. Each bowl of this Pumpkin Chicken Chili becomes a personalized culinary adventure, tailor-made to your taste!

Storing and Reheating Pumpkin Chicken Chili

One of the many wonderful aspects of preparing a delicious homemade chili is how incredibly well it stores. Often, chili tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld and deepen, creating a more complex and harmonious profile. Proper storage is absolutely key to maintaining its freshness, preserving its delicious taste, and ensuring food safety for future enjoyment.

Refrigeration: Once your Pumpkin Chicken Chili has finished cooking, it’s important to allow it to cool down to room temperature as quickly as possible, ideally within two hours. This swift cooling helps to prevent the growth of bacteria. Once cooled, transfer the chili to an airtight container. This type of container is crucial not only for keeping bacteria out but also for preventing unwanted odors from permeating other foods in your refrigerator. Stored correctly, your chili will comfortably last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For optimal freshness and convenience, consider dividing larger batches into smaller, individual-sized containers; these portions cool down faster and are much easier to grab and reheat for quick meals.

Reheating: To reheat your chili, simply transfer your desired portion to a saucepan and warm it gently over medium-low heat on the stovetop. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent any sticking. If the chili has thickened considerably in the fridge, which is quite common, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to achieve your preferred consistency. For individual servings, the microwave is also a convenient option; just be sure to stir the chili halfway through the reheating process to ensure it’s heated evenly and thoroughly.

Freezer-Friendly Chili Tips

Pumpkin Chicken Chili is an excellent candidate for freezing, making it an ideal meal for meal prepping or having a quick, wholesome homemade meal on hand for those unexpectedly busy days. Freezing chili allows you to effortlessly extend its shelf life, enabling you to enjoy its comforting flavors months after you’ve initially prepared it.

Preparing for the Freezer: After cooking your delicious chili, it is absolutely essential to ensure it is completely cooled before you place it into the freezer. This crucial step prevents the formation of large ice crystals, which can negatively impact the chili’s texture and overall flavor when thawed. For convenient portioning and space-saving storage, I highly recommend using dedicated freezer soup molds from Amazon. These molds are fantastic for creating individual servings, making it incredibly simple to thaw just the amount you need. Alternatively, you can use heavy-duty freezer-safe bags (laying them flat on a baking sheet to freeze, then storing vertically to save space) or durable airtight freezer containers.

Freezing Duration: When properly stored in suitable freezer-safe containers, your Pumpkin Chicken Chili will maintain its excellent quality in the freezer for up to several months. For the best flavor and texture, aim to consume it within 3-4 months. Always remember to label your containers or bags clearly with the date of freezing, which helps you keep track of its freshness.

Thawing and Reheating: The optimal method for thawing frozen chili is to transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator overnight. This gentle, slow thawing process helps to preserve the chili’s texture and integrity. Once fully thawed, you can reheat it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s bubbling hot and thoroughly heated through. As with refrigerated chili, a splash of chicken broth or water can be added if it has become too thick during thawing. If you’re pressed for time, you can also reheat portions directly from frozen on the stovetop (though it will take longer) or in the microwave; however, stovetop reheating is generally preferred for more even results and a better overall texture. Having a well-stocked stash of this delicious Pumpkin Chicken Chili in your freezer means a wholesome, comforting meal is always just a reheat away, ready to save the day!

What to Serve With This Dish

Pumpkin Chicken Chili is a robust and satisfying meal that can certainly stand on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can truly elevate the dining experience. Cornbread is a classic and beloved chili companion, offering a sweet or savory contrast that’s simply irresistible. Here are some fantastic options to serve alongside your hearty chili:

• Keto Low Carb Cornbread
• Air Fryer Cornbread
• Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread
• Southern Classic Homemade Cornbread
• Southern Cornbread Dressing
• Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, light green salad with a bright vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing and healthy contrast to the richness and warmth of the chili.
• Avocado Salad: A simple salad featuring diced avocado, finely chopped red onion, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice would be a wonderfully creamy and zesty addition.
• Crusty Bread or Rolls: A good quality crusty bread or warm dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up every last drop of the flavorful chili, ensuring no deliciousness goes to waste.

Explore More Chili Recipes

If you’ve fallen in love with the comforting nature of chili, or if you’re simply eager to broaden your culinary horizons, there’s a whole world of delicious chili variations waiting to be explored! Whether you prefer hearty beef, lean chicken, or satisfying vegetarian options, and whether your palate craves spicy or mild flavors, there’s undoubtedly a chili recipe out there for every taste and occasion. Expand your culinary repertoire and discover new favorites with these diverse and delightful chili creations:

• Keto Low Carb Chili
• Instant Pot Beef Chili
• Chili Cheese Fries
• Instant Pot White Chicken Chili
• Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili
• Sweet Potato Chili
• Creamy Seafood Chili
• Buffalo Chicken Chili
• Leftover Turkey Chili
• Slow Cooker Crockpot Chili Mac
• Butternut Squash Chili
• Creamy Stovetop White Chicken Chili
• Taco Chili

Discover More Pumpkin Recipes

If you’re anything like us, the arrival of pumpkin season is a joyous occasion, signaling a time for warm spices, comforting aromas, and an abundance of delightful dishes. Beyond the savory goodness of this Pumpkin Chicken Chili, pumpkin is an incredibly versatile ingredient that shines brilliantly in both sweet and savory applications. Dive deeper into the wonderful world of pumpkin with these delectable recipes, each one perfect for capturing and celebrating the quintessential essence of fall:

• Sugar Free Pumpkin Spice Latte
• Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
• Keto Low Carb Pumpkin Cookies
• Pumpkin Crisp
• Keto Low Carb Pumpkin Bread
• Keto Low Carb Pumpkin Pie
• Keto Low Carb Pumpkin Spice Latte
• Pumpkin Cornbread

For even more culinary inspiration, be sure to explore The Best Healthy Chili Recipes. And if you’re keen on perfecting your chili from scratch, learn how to craft your own perfect Homemade Chili Seasoning with our detailed guide.

Pumpkin Chicken Chili

By Brandi Crawford

There’s nothing quite like a warm and hearty bowl of Pumpkin Chicken Chili to capture the essence of the season. This unique twist on a classic favorite combines tender chunks of chicken, the subtle sweetness of pumpkin, and a blend of spices that create a symphony of flavors in every bite. Perfect for family dinners or game-day gatherings, this chili is a delicious way to celebrate the flavors of fall.

★★★★★ (5 from 8 votes)

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Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 25 mins

Total Time: 40 mins

Course: Dinner, Lunch

Cuisine: American

Servings: 5 servings

Calories: 444 kcal

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Equipment

• Cast Iron Dutch Oven
• Freezer Soup Molds

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (Cut into cubes about ½ – 1 inch thick.)
• ½ cup chopped onions
• 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cup chopped green peppers
• ½ cup chopped red peppers
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 15 oz 100% pureed pumpkin (Canned)
• 1 15oz can of diced tomatoes and chilis (Do not drain.)
• 1 15oz can chili beans (I like a spicy kick, so I choose medium spiced beans. Do not drain.)
• 1 15oz can black beans (Drained.)
• 6 oz can tomato paste (Optional. Omit if you want strong, pumpkin flavor.)
• 4 oz cream cheese (Can also substitute 1 cup of coconut milk.)

Homemade Chili Seasoning

• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon red cayenne pepper (optional for spicy)

Instructions

1. Place a Dutch oven or stock pot on medium high heat. When hot, add the olive oil and chicken cubes. Season with half of the chili seasoning.
2. Cook for 3-4 minutes until no longer pink. Remove and set aside.
3. If needed, add additional olive oil, onions, and peppers to the pot. Saute for a few minutes until the veggies are soft.
4. Add in the minced garlic and stir.
5. Add in the broth and deglaze the pot. Add in the cooked chicken, pumpkin, diced tomatoes and chilies, tomato paste (remember this optional), the remaining chili seasoning, and chili beans. Cover the pot, lower the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15 minutes.
6. Open the pot and add the cream cheese. Stir continuously until melted.
7. Cool before serving.

Video

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Notes

• If you are looking for full pumpkin flavor, do not use the tomato paste. I like to add it from time to time to get the standard taste of chili in addition to pumpkin, but it does drown out the pumpkin flavor, some.
• To make the dish keto-friendly, omit the beans and tomato paste.
• You can use a cut up rotisserie chicken in the recipe if you wish for a quick option.
• You can use a store-bought chili packet if you don’t wish to make your own seasoning blend.
• You can use any type of beans you like in this chili; feel free to substitute or add other varieties like kidney beans or pinto beans.
• You can use any cut of chicken you like, such as boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Cook time will remain similar.
• To make this using shredded chicken, add your raw chicken (breasts or thighs) to a slow-cooker or Instant Pot along with 1 cup of chicken broth (omit the ½ cup of broth noted in the main recipe, as this 1 cup replaces it). To slow cook, cook for 4 hours on High or 8 hours on Low. To pressure cook, cook for 10 minutes on Manual > High-Pressure Cooking. Allow steam to release naturally for 10 minutes. Open and remove the chicken, then shred it. The chili’s cook time will remain the same. Add the cream cheese to the chili last after the chicken has cooked and been added.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 serving

Calories: 444 kcal

Carbohydrates: 32 g

Protein: 34 g

Fat: 15 g

Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.

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