Chicken and Pumpkin Curry – Cozy One-Pot Dinner

When the weather cools down and the evenings get longer, nothing feels quite as comforting as a warm, flavorful curry. This Chicken and Pumpkin Curry is the perfect blend of creamy, hearty, and nourishing. Tender chunks of chicken simmer in a fragrant sauce made with coconut milk, pumpkin, and warming spices. It’s the kind of dish that makes your kitchen smell amazing while it cooks, and it tastes even better the next day when the flavors deepen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cozy and Comforting – Ideal for fall and winter dinners.
• Seasonal Goodness – Pumpkin adds natural sweetness and creaminess.
• One-Pot Wonder – Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup easy.
• Nutritious and Filling – Protein-packed chicken with fiber-rich pumpkin.
• Customizable – Easily adjust spice levels and add extra veggies.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tbsp curry powder (mild or medium, depending on taste)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 cups pumpkin, peeled and cubed
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Cooked rice or naan, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft and golden, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Sprinkle in curry powder, cumin, and paprika. Toast the spices for 30 seconds to release their full flavor.
4. Add chicken pieces and season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook until browned on all sides.
5. Stir in the cubed pumpkin, followed by coconut milk, chicken broth, and tomato paste. Mix until everything is well combined.
6. Bring the curry to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or curry powder.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, alongside rice or naan.

Tips & Variations

• Vegetarian option – Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based version.
• Make it spicy – Add cayenne or fresh chili peppers for extra heat.
• Creamier texture – Stir in extra coconut milk just before serving.
• More veggies – Bell peppers, spinach, or carrots make great additions.
• Meal prep friendly – The flavors deepen overnight, making it great for leftovers.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Store in the fridge: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for later: This curry freezes beautifully. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, or microwave until hot.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with steamed basmati or jasmine rice for a hearty meal.
• Pair with naan or flatbread to scoop up the flavorful sauce.
• Add a cucumber salad or raita for a refreshing contrast.
• Enjoy with a drink like mango lassi or spiced herbal tea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned pumpkin instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh pumpkin provides better texture. If using canned, add it halfway through cooking to avoid it becoming too soft.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Simply sauté the onion, garlic, ginger, and spices first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs add extra flavor and stay tender in curry.

Is this curry spicy?

The base recipe is mild, but you can add chili or cayenne to increase the heat to your liking.

Ready to Try It?

This Chicken and Pumpkin Curry is everything you need in a comforting meal—rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re cooking it for family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving something cozy, this recipe delivers.

You Might Also Like

• Pumpkin Risotto – Creamy and savory rice dish with seasonal pumpkin.
• Stuffed Acorn Squash – Perfect fall dinner with a hearty filling.
• Maple Glazed Salmon – Sweet and savory salmon that’s quick and easy.
• Butternut Squash Chili – A hearty, veggie-packed chili full of flavor.

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