Fall Chicken and Pumpkin Stew – Cozy Slow Cooker Comfort

Fall Chicken and Pumpkin Stew is that warm hug in a bowl you crave when the air turns crisp and the days get shorter. Imagine a slow cooker quietly bubbling away while shredded chicken, pumpkin, and cinnamon work their magic, filling your kitchen with that unmistakable autumn aroma. It’s hearty, wholesome, and ready to comfort you after a long day.

This Fall Chicken and Pumpkin Stew is perfect for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or those moments when you just want something cozy without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a clever way to use leftover chicken—and you know how satisfying that is.

Table of Contents

What is Fall Chicken and Pumpkin Stew?

Fall Chicken and Pumpkin Stew is a rich, creamy slow-cooked meal combining tender shredded chicken with the smooth sweetness of pumpkin. The flavor deepens as it simmers, with notes of garlic, thyme, and cinnamon wrapping everything in a mellow, autumn-inspired warmth. It’s the kind of dish that tastes like Thanksgiving met comfort food in one pot.

Made with simple, real ingredients, it gives you that homemade satisfaction without the stress. Unlike traditional stews that rely on heavy cream or long stovetop simmering, this version is lighter yet still velvety and flavorful. It’s also a great way to sneak in some nutritious pumpkin, adding vitamins A and C to your comfort meal.

Reasons to Try Fall Chicken and Pumpkin Stew

There are plenty of reasons you’ll love making this Fall Chicken and Pumpkin Stew. First off, it’s a “set it and forget it” kind of recipe—just toss everything into the slow cooker, go about your day, and come back to a perfectly cooked dinner. It’s packed with comforting flavors but still feels light enough for everyday eating.

The touch of cinnamon adds an unexpected twist that brings out the pumpkin’s natural sweetness without turning the stew into dessert territory. Another reason? Leftovers taste even better the next day (seriously). And if you’re watching your calories, this stew delivers big flavor at only about 280 kcal per serving. You can even double the batch and freeze half for later—it reheats beautifully.

Ingredients Needed to Make Fall Chicken and Pumpkin Stew

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (leftover roasted chicken works best)
• 1 cup canned pumpkin (unsweetened)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh if you have it)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions to Make Fall Chicken and Pumpkin Stew

Making Fall Chicken and Pumpkin Stew is easier than it looks, and following this step-by-step guide guarantees a flavorful, cozy meal with minimal effort. Grab your slow cooker and let’s dive in.

Step 1: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients

Before you begin cooking, make sure everything is ready to go — this step-by-step prep makes the process smoother and faster. Shred your leftover cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works beautifully for this recipe), dice your onion, and mince the garlic. Having everything prepped upfront means you won’t be scrambling while your pan is heating. If you’re new to prepping vegetables efficiently, check out my quick guide on easy sautéed mushrooms with spinach — it shares some great knife skills and time-saving tips for busy cooks.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic for Flavor

This step-by-step is all about building your base flavor. Heat a small drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent — about 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells amazing. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, but don’t let it brown. This quick sauté brings out a sweetness that deepens the stew’s flavor later on. For another aromatic dish that uses this same technique, try my Garlic Potato Soup.

Step 3: Transfer Everything to the Slow Cooker

Once your onion and garlic are golden and fragrant, it’s time for the next step-by-step moment — assembling your stew base. Transfer the sautéed mix into your slow cooker, then add the shredded chicken, canned pumpkin, cinnamon, thyme, and chicken broth. Stir everything together until the ingredients are evenly combined. You’ll start to see that beautiful pumpkin-orange hue that makes this stew so visually comforting. This is also a great moment to taste and decide if you’d like a stronger spice note — a pinch of nutmeg or paprika can be added here if you enjoy a bolder flavor (a trick I also use in my Curried Sweet Potato Soup).

Step 4: Set It and Forget It

This is the easiest step-by-step part — the slow cooker does the work for you. Place the lid on your slow cooker and set it to the “low” setting. Let the stew simmer gently for about 6 hours. During this time, the chicken will soak up the pumpkin and spices, becoming tender and flavorful, while the pumpkin thickens the broth into a silky texture. If you’re away from home, don’t worry — this recipe can sit happily without overcooking. That’s the beauty of slow cooking! If you’re a fan of this low-effort style, you might love my Hearty Meatball Stew — another slow cooker favorite.

Step 5: Season and Adjust the Texture

After 6 hours, remove the lid and take a peek. Give your Fall Chicken and Pumpkin Stew a gentle stir and taste for seasoning. Add salt and black pepper to your liking. If you prefer a thicker consistency, leave the lid off and let it cook for another 10–15 minutes — this allows some of the liquid to evaporate naturally. For a creamier touch, stir in a splash of coconut milk or a small knob of butter at the end. This step-by-step adjustment ensures the perfect texture every time.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy the Cozy Goodness

Now comes the best step-by-step moment — serving your creation. Ladle the stew into bowls, making sure everyone gets a mix of tender chicken and velvety pumpkin. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme, parsley, or even roasted pumpkin seeds for a little crunch. Serve alongside crusty bread, a side of Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots, or a crisp Fall Harvest Salad for a complete seasonal meal.

And there you have it — your Fall Chicken and Pumpkin Stew, made easy through this clear step-by-step guide. It’s hearty, healthy, and perfect for chilly nights when you need something that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

What to Serve with Fall Chicken and Pumpkin Stew

This hearty dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a simple side salad, or roasted vegetables. Try serving it alongside these cozy recipes from my site: Maple Dijon Roasted Carrots for a touch of sweetness or Roasted Winter Vegetable Soup for a double dose of fall comfort. If you want something richer, Ultimate Potato and Sausage Chowder makes a great companion for a family feast.

Key Tips for Making Fall Chicken and Pumpkin Stew

1. Use cooked chicken: Leftover rotisserie or roasted chicken saves time and adds deep flavor.
2. Don’t skip the cinnamon—it’s subtle but makes the stew irresistibly warm.
3. If you want a creamier finish, stir in a splash of coconut milk at the end.
4. Make it veggie-packed: Add chopped carrots or sweet potatoes for extra texture.
5. Season well—pumpkin is mild, so a little salt and pepper go a long way.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Fall Chicken and Pumpkin Stew

Let the stew cool completely before storing it. Place leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in 30-second bursts until hot. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. It might thicken slightly as it cools, so add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.

FAQs

Can I make this without a slow cooker? Yes! You can simmer it on the stovetop for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned? Absolutely, just roast and mash it before adding it in.
Can I make this stew vegetarian? Swap the chicken for chickpeas and use vegetable broth—it’s just as delicious.

Final Thoughts

This Fall Chicken and Pumpkin Stew is the kind of recipe that makes you grateful for slow cookers and cozy nights. It’s a simple, nourishing meal that tastes like fall in every bite—earthy, warm, and just a little magical. If you love this, check out my Curried Sweet Potato Soup or Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken for more comforting seasonal dinners.

Follow us on Pinterest for weekly slow cooker inspiration, or join the conversation over on our Facebook page where fellow food lovers share their favorite comfort meal.

Print