Slow Cooker Harvest Pumpkin Butter Chicken
Description
Slow Cooker Harvest Pumpkin Butter Chicken is a rich, cozy, and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with creamy pumpkin, warm spices, and buttery goodness. The slow cooker creates juicy chicken infused with comforting autumn-inspired flavors, making this hearty meal perfect for chilly evenings, holiday gatherings, or easy family dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Place chicken into the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, chicken broth, melted butter, garlic, paprika, onion powder, cinnamon, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the pumpkin sauce over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours until chicken is tender.
- Shred chicken lightly or serve whole with sauce spooned over the top.
- Garnish with parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- Pumpkin puree should be plain, not pumpkin pie filling.
- Chicken thighs stay especially juicy in the slow cooker.
- The sauce thickens naturally during cooking.
Tips
- Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta.
- Add spinach during the last 15 minutes for extra nutrients.
- A splash of cream can make the sauce even richer.
Servings
6 servings
Nutritional Info (Approx. Per Serving)
- Calories: 330
- Protein: 31g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
Benefits
- High in protein
- Rich in vitamin A from pumpkin
- Comforting and filling meal
- Easy slow cooker recipe
- Great for meal prep leftovers
Q&A
Can I use canned pumpkin?
Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, replace butter with olive oil or dairy-free butter.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Rice, roasted vegetables, pasta, or crusty bread pair wonderfully.
Can I add spice?
Yes, chili flakes or cayenne pepper add great heat.