Name: Savory Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings for Cozy Fall Evenings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Chicken Breasts (can be swapped for thighs for richer flavor); 1 cup Pumpkin Purée (canned or fresh works beautifully); 4 cups Chicken Broth (low-sodium helps control saltiness); 2 cups Vegetable Mirepoix (carrots, celery, onion) (pre-chopped for quicker prep); 2 cups Flour (thickening agent); 2 teaspoons Baking Powder (do not substitute with baking soda alone); ¼ cup Butter (keep cold for airy dumpling dough); 1 large Egg (can be replaced with a flax egg for a vegan alternative); 1 cup Milk (feel free to use heavy cream or plant-based milk); 1 teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice (can be swapped with cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice); 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (optional based on flavor preference)

As the first hints of autumn nip at the air, I find myself drawn to all the cozy flavors this season brings. That’s when I whip up my beloved creamy Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings — a comforting one-pot meal that blankets you in warmth. Tender pulled chicken mingles with savory pumpkin and hearty squash, while fluffy dumplings rise to perfection on top. Not only is this dish a delightful homage to fall, but it’s also a lifesaver for busy weeknights or family gatherings, with minimal cleanup and maximum comfort. Are you ready to dive into a bowl of pure cozy goodness? Let’s get cooking!

Why Are Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings Perfect?

Cozy Comfort: This dish embodies the warmth of fall, making it perfect for chilly evenings.

One-Pot Wonder: Streamline your cooking with minimal cleanup – everything cooks in one pot!

Flavor Explosion: The sweet pumpkin and savory spices marry beautifully, creating a tantalizing taste sensation.

Quick Preparation: Ideal for busy nights, it comes together in under an hour, perfect for family gatherings.

Versatile Variations: Easily customize by swapping proteins or adding greens like kale. Pair it with a light salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal. If you’re craving more cozy recipes, don’t miss my Garlic Butter Chicken or try Caribbean Chicken Rice for a twist!

Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings Ingredients

Preparation for Cozy Goodness
• Gather these ingredients to create the ultimate warm comfort food experience!

For the Soup Base

Chicken Breasts – A primary protein that can be swapped for thighs for a richer flavor.
Pumpkin Purée – Adds creaminess and that beloved fall flavor; both canned or fresh work beautifully.
Vegetable Mirepoix (carrots, celery, onion) – The flavor foundation of the dish; pre-chop for quicker prep.
Chicken Broth – The liquid base that deepens the soup’s flavor; low-sodium helps control the saltiness.

For the Dumplings

Flour – Serves as a thickening agent; dust it over the vegetables before adding liquid to achieve the best texture.
Baking Powder – Essential for light, fluffy dumplings; do not substitute with baking soda alone.
Butter – Used for sautéing the mirepoix; keep it cold for airy dumpling dough.
Egg – Binds the dumpling mixture; can be replaced with a flax egg for a vegan alternative.

For Creaminess

Milk – Adds creaminess to the soup; feel free to use heavy cream or plant-based milk as substitutes.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – Enhances the flavor profile; can be swapped with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.

For Finishing Touches

Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish at the end; optional based on your flavor preferences.

Now you’re all set to whip up a comforting bowl of Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings! Each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting this heartwarming dish that encapsulates the essence of fall, so let’s get cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Begin by melting 3 tablespoons of cold butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, add your pre-chopped mirepoix (carrots, celery, and onion) and sauté for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant. This forms the flavorful base of your Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings.

Step 2: Build Soup Base
Dust the softened vegetables with ¼ cup of flour, stirring well to combine and coat the mirepoix evenly. Gradually pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of pumpkin purée, mixing continuously to avoid lumps. Season with 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice and add the chicken breasts. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 3: Shred Chicken
After the chicken breasts have poached, remove them from the pot and place them on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot along with 1 cup of diced squash and 1 cup of milk. Stir the ingredients together and continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring the soup thickens and the squash becomes tender.

Step 4: Prepare Dumpling Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Grate in ¼ cup of cold butter and use your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 egg and ¾ cup of milk. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined to form a light dumpling dough.

Step 5: Cook Dumplings
Once your soup is at a gentle simmer, drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough into the pot, spacing them evenly. Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings cook for about 10 minutes without lifting the lid, allowing them to puff up and steam perfectly in the rich Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings broth. Check for doneness by ensuring the dumplings are cooked through and light.

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings are a lifesaver for busy cooks! You can prepare the soup base (excluding the dumplings) up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply follow the steps for sautéing your mirepoix, adding the chicken, pumpkin purée, and broth, and allow it to cool before refrigerating. The dumpling dough can be mixed up to 24 hours ahead, but avoid letting it sit too long to maintain lightness. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the soup gently on the stove, then drop in the fresh dumpling dough and cook for 10 minutes for a comforting, home-cooked meal that feels like a cozy hug!

Storage Tips for Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For the best flavor, reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

Freezer: It’s best to avoid freezing dumplings, as they may lose their light texture. Instead, freeze the soup base for up to 3 months, adding fresh dumplings when reheating.

Room Temperature: Keep cooked Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings out at room temperature for no longer than 2 hours to ensure food safety.

Reheating: When reheating, always do so gradually on low heat to prevent the dumplings from becoming tough or gummy, maintaining the comforting essence of the dish.

Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings Variations

Embrace your culinary creativity as you tailor this warm dish to your taste preferences!

Turkey Swap: Replace chicken with turkey for a delightful twist that’s perfect post-holiday season.
Vegan Delight: Use a plant-based protein like chickpeas or lentils along with vegetable broth to make it vegan-friendly. It retains its heartiness.
Leafy Greens: Add a handful of kale or spinach in the last minutes of simmering for a nutritious boost that pairs beautifully with the creamy soup.
Different Squashes: Experiment with butternut or acorn squash if pumpkin isn’t your favorite; each brings a unique flavor and texture to the dish.
Spice It Up: Kick it up a notch by adding a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper for a zesty heat that complements the pumpkin’s sweetness.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary to infuse an aromatic essence; these herbs harmonize well with the fall-inspired flavors.
Dairy-Free Creaminess: Swap milk for coconut milk to create an entirely dairy-free dish that offers a subtle sweetness and creaminess.
Cheesy Dumplings: Fold in some shredded cheese into the dumpling dough for a cheesy explosion that takes this cozy dish to a new cheesy height.

Feel free to explore these variations! For more delicious comfort meals, consider pairing this dish with my favorite Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas or opt for a fresh take with Mango Chicken Stir Fry. Enjoy experimenting!

Expert Tips for Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings

Cold Butter is Key: Always work with cold butter for airy, fluffy dumplings; using room temperature butter will lead to denser results.
Don’t Overwork the Dough: Mix the dumpling mixture until just combined for the best texture; over-mixing can result in tough dumplings.
Avoid Storage Mistakes: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days, but skip freezing dumplings to maintain their delightful texture in your Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings.
Pre-Chop for Speed: Preparing your mirepoix ahead of time can save you precious minutes, making it a breeze to whip up this comforting dish.
Customize Flavors: Feel free to add greens like kale or spinach for an extra nutrient boost; just be mindful not to overload the soup.

What to Serve with Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings

Transform your cozy feast into a meal that delights all the senses with these perfect pairings.

Light Seasonal Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette complements the creamy dumplings, adding a refreshing contrast.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots, roasted to caramelized perfection, enhance the meal’s autumn vibes beautifully.
Crusty Bread: Rustic bread or rolls are perfect for soaking up the delicious broth and dumplings, adding a warm, comforting element to each bite.
Herb-Infused Couscous: Light and fluffy couscous with fresh herbs balances the richness of the dumplings while bringing a lovely texture to the table.
Mashed Sweet Potatoes: Creamy mashed sweet potatoes elevate the meal with their natural sweetness, echoing the pumpkin flavors without overshadowing the dish.
Sparkling Cider: A fizzy apple cider adds a festive touch, cutting through the richness while echoing the fall flavors in your cozy dinner.

Plan to savor the full experience, as each side enhances the charm of Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings, making every meal unforgettable!

Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin should I use?
Absolutely! For this recipe, either canned pumpkin purée or fresh pumpkin works wonderfully. If you opt for fresh, ensure it’s well-pureed to achieve that creamy texture. Look for sugar pumpkins or other small varieties as they tend to have better flavor.

How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. Simply store them in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth to help restore creaminess.

Can I freeze Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings?
It’s best to avoid freezing the dumplings themselves, as they may lose their delightful airy texture. Instead, you can freeze the soup base for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the soup and add freshly made dumplings.

What if my dumplings turn out dense?
Very! Dense dumplings are often a result of overworking the dough or using warm butter. Make sure to mix until just combined and use cold butter for the best results. If they’re dense, try letting the dough rest briefly before dropping them into the simmering soup!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you’re preparing this dish for those with allergies, be careful with the flour and milk. For a dairy-free option, substitute regular milk with a plant-based alternative. The egg in the dumplings can be replaced with a flax egg if needed. Always check your ingredient labels for potential allergens.

Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
The more the merrier! Feel free to incorporate ingredients like kale or spinach for a nutritious boost. You can add them towards the end of cooking to retain their vibrant color and fresh flavor. Enjoy experimenting with seasonal veggies!