Fall is finally here, and there’s no better way to embrace the changing seasons than with a bowl of Thai inspired stew. This Pumpkin Chicken Stew is the perfect recipe to take advantage of the last cooler days, combining the sweetness of pumpkin, savory chicken, and a rich blend of thai spices. Whether you’re looking for something filling for dinner or a dish to feed the family, this stew has got you covered!
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Chicken Stew:
- Perfect Comfort Food: The pumpkin adds a creaminess that’s full of flavor.
- Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with lean chicken, kale, and antioxidant-rich pumpkin, it’s a well-rounded meal that’s both comforting and nourishing.
- Simple to Make: With just one pot and minimal prep, this stew is as easy as it is delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend gathering.
- Freezable: Make a big batch and store leftovers in the freezer for those nights when you just want to reheat something hearty and homemade.
Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs (boneless, skinless), cut into bite-sized cubes
- ½ cup basil
- ½ cup cilantro
- 1 inch piece of ginger
- 3 cloves garlic
- 4 cups leafy greans (I used kale)
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 cups broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
2. Add Garlic and Spices:
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pot, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir well, letting the spices bloom in the oil, about 1 minute.
3. Incorporate the Pumpkin and Broth:
Now, pour in the pumpkin puree, chicken broth, and coconut milk. Stir everything together, scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the pot for extra flavor.
Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together.
4. Return the Chicken to the Pot:
Add the kale and cook until tender, return the cooked chicken to the pot and stir to combine. Simmer for another 10-15 minutes, letting the stew thicken slightly and the chicken cook through.
5. Adjust Seasoning:
Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or spices as needed. If you like a little kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for added heat.
6. Serve & Garnish:
Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh basil and cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. You can also serve this stew with a slice of crusty bread for dipping.
Tips & Variations:
- Add additional veggies: Feel free to stir in red bell peppers or zucchini during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
- Add Sweet Potatoes: For a sweeter flavor, add in sweet potatoes.
- Make It Spicy: If you love a little heat, toss in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper when cooking the garlic and onions.
- Slow Cooker Option: You can easily adapt this recipe for the slow cooker. After sautéing the chicken, add everything (except the coconut milk) into the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours. Stir in the coconut milk at the end and let it warm through.
Why Pumpkin and Chicken?
Pumpkin and chicken are a match made in heaven. The natural sweetness of pumpkin balances perfectly with the savory, lean protein of chicken. Pumpkin is also full of fiber and vitamins, while chicken provides that satisfying, hearty element we all crave. The combination of spices like ginger and garlic brings out the Thai flavors in this dish, making it the ultimate comfort food.
Storage and Leftovers:
This stew keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it a great option for meal prep. You can also freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months—just reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
So, whether you’re cozying up at home with a bowl of this hearty Pumpkin Chicken Stew or serving it at a gathering, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. What’s your favorite recipe? Let me know in the comments below!
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