Delight in the comforting blend of flavors with this Creamy Chicken and Pumpkin Pasta, a perfect weeknight dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy pumpkin purée, and hearty pasta for a truly satisfying meal. This recipe combines a velvety pumpkin-infused sauce with a touch of Parmesan, fragrant garlic, and warm nutmeg, creating a rich and savory experience that's both unique and nourishing. With just 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes to cook, this fall-inspired pasta is quick enough for a busy evening yet elegant enough to impress guests. Plus, the light use of cream and optional low-sodium chicken broth gives it a healthy twist without sacrificing indulgence. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color, and serve it warm for a wholesome dinner everyone will love. Keywords: creamy chicken and pumpkin pasta, fall-inspired pasta recipe, quick and easy chicken pasta, comforting pumpkin dishes, healthy weeknight meals.
Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining. Set aside.
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cut the chicken breast into small bite-sized pieces and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Stir in the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Mix well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Add the grated Parmesan cheese, ground nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat it in the sauce. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until heated through.
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water to loosen it to your desired consistency.
Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.
Serve the creamy chicken and pumpkin pasta hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for an optional pop of color and flavor.
Calories |
2738 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 159.8 g | 205% | |
| Saturated Fat | 75.7 g | 378% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 710 mg | 237% | |
| Sodium | 3153 mg | 137% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 109.4 g | 40% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.0 g | 43% | |
| Total Sugars | 11.0 g | ||
| Protein | 194.2 g | 388% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.6 mcg | 3% | |
| Calcium | 1065 mg | 82% | |
| Iron | 11.5 mg | 64% | |
| Potassium | 1888 mg | 40% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.