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Delicious creamy pumpkin chicken pasta served in a bowl

Creamy Pumpkin Chicken Pasta

A delightful dish that combines rich pumpkin flavor with creamy sauce and tender chicken, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Pasta
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 1 pound Penne or Rigatoni pasta Can use any short pasta.
Chicken
  • 1.5 pounds Boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes Cut into even-sized cubes for consistent cooking.
Sauce
  • 1 can (15 oz) Pure pumpkin puree Make sure it's not pumpkin pie filling.
  • 1 cup Heavy cream or half-and-half Use half-and-half for a lighter option.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated is best.
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced Adds a fragrant touch.
  • 1 small Yellow onion, finely diced Sweeter taste complements the dish.
  • 1 cup Chicken broth Use homemade or low sodium for health.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil For sautéing the chicken.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried sage or thyme Fresh herbs can be used if available.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground nutmeg Gives a warm flavor to the sauce.
  • Salt and black pepper to taste Adjust to your preference.
  • Fresh parsley for garnish Optional, for presentation.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving half a cup of pasta water.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken cubes with salt and pepper.
Cooking
  1. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
  2. In the same skillet, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Lower the heat to medium. Stir in the pumpkin puree, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Whisk gently until the sauce is smooth.
  4. Stir in the dried sage, nutmeg, and Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes until it starts to thicken.
  5. Add the cooked chicken and the drained pasta into the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water.
  6. Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently, adding a splash of cream or broth to maintain creaminess.
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