why make this recipe

Creamy Pumpkin Parmesan Chicken Skillet is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of pumpkin and Parmesan cheese. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe lets you enjoy a warm and hearty meal in no time.

how to make Creamy Pumpkin Parmesan Chicken Skillet

Ingredients:

4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (about 2 lb. total)
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
3 tbsp. tomato paste
1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes, plus more for serving
1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
3/4 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 cup grated Parmesan, plus more, shaved, for serving
1/4 cup heavy cream
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1/2 cup packed fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced, divided

Directions:

Season the chicken breasts with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Heat a medium 10-inch heavy skillet over medium-high heat, then add the olive oil. Arrange the chicken in the skillet and cook for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown. Once seared, transfer the chicken to a plate.
Reduce the skillet heat to low and add the finely chopped garlic, tomato paste, and 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Stir continuously for about 30 seconds until the garlic is lightly golden and fragrant and the tomato paste has toasted slightly.
Add the low-sodium chicken broth, pumpkin puree, grated Parmesan, heavy cream, lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Whisk all ingredients together until well combined.
Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet with the sauce. Increase the heat to medium and bring the sauce to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for 5 minutes. Then remove the cover and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
Stir half of the thinly sliced fresh basil into the skillet. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle the remaining basil leaves, shaved Parmesan cheese, and extra crushed red pepper flakes over the top before serving.

how to serve Creamy Pumpkin Parmesan Chicken Skillet

Serve this dish hot, spooning the creamy sauce over the chicken. You can pair it with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad to balance out the flavors. Don’t forget to sprinkle extra Parmesan and crushed red pepper on top for added taste.

how to store Creamy Pumpkin Parmesan Chicken Skillet

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

tips to make Creamy Pumpkin Parmesan Chicken Skillet

Make sure to sear the chicken properly for a nice golden crust. This adds flavor to the dish.
Adjust the level of crushed red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer after adding the chicken back.

variation

You can modify this recipe by using different proteins, such as turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option. Additionally, try adding vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrients and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin puree?
Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and saves time.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth, this recipe is gluten-free.

Can I freeze the leftovers?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the leftovers in a suitable container. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.

Creamy Pumpkin Parmesan Chicken Skillet

Print Recipe

A delicious and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of pumpkin and Parmesan cheese, perfect for a cozy family dinner.

Author: megan
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Gluten-Free

Instructions

Season the chicken breasts with 1 tsp. kosher salt and 1/4 tsp. black pepper. Heat a medium 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Arrange chicken in skillet and cook for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer chicken to a plate.
Reduce heat to low and add garlic, tomato paste, and 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes. Stir continuously for about 30 seconds until garlic is golden and fragrant.
Add chicken broth, pumpkin puree, Parmesan, heavy cream, lemon juice, and 1/2 tsp. salt. Whisk until combined.
Nestle the chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Increase heat to medium and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 5 minutes, then remove cover and cook for another 5 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce thickens.
Stir half of the basil into the skillet, taste, and adjust seasoning. Sprinkle remaining basil, shaved Parmesan, and extra red pepper flakes on top before serving.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 420
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 700mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: chicken, pumpkin, parmesan, skillet, creamy, comfort food, dinner