Pumpkin Sage Chicken Skillet

As the leaves change color and the air grows crisp, there’s an undeniable charm that autumn brings to our kitchens. It’s a time for cozy gatherings, warm sweaters, and, of course, hearty meals that celebrate the season’s bounty. One dish that perfectly encapsulates the essence of fall is the Pumpkin Sage Chicken Skillet. This comforting recipe marries tender chicken breasts with a creamy pumpkin sauce, infused with aromatic sage, garlic, and a hint of spice. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and flavor to your table, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners as well as special occasions.

Embrace the flavors of fall with the Pumpkin Sage Chicken Skillet, a delightful dish that combines tender chicken in a creamy pumpkin sauce infused with sage and spices. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe showcases easy preparation and rich, hearty flavors. Learn about the nutritious ingredients and step-by-step cooking instructions that make this meal a seasonal favorite. Bring warmth to your table with this comforting autumn classic.

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Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup canned pumpkin puree (ensure it's pure pumpkin, not pie filling)

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried sage)

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon fresh nutmeg, grated (or ground nutmeg)

1 cup chicken broth

1/2 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional: toasted pumpkin seeds for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

- Begin by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and ground cinnamon to enhance the flavor.

Sear the Chicken:

- In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat over medium-high. Once the oil shimmers, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear for approximately 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet, placing it on a plate, and set aside.

Sauté the Onions and Garlic:

- Without cleaning the skillet, add the diced onions. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent and tender. Then, incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing the garlic's aroma to fill the kitchen.

Add Pumpkin and Broth:

- Stir in the pumpkin puree, chicken broth, and grated nutmeg. Mix everything together until smooth and combined. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld.

Incorporate Cream and Sage:

- Pour in the heavy cream and add the chopped sage. Whisk continuously until the mixture is creamy and well blended. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, so the flavors deepen.

Return Chicken to Skillet:

- Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, ensuring they are nestled in the pumpkin sauce. Spoon some sauce over the top of the chicken. Allow the skillet to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring the chicken is heated through.

Garnish and Serve:

- Once heated through, remove from the heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and if desired, sprinkle with toasted pumpkin seeds for an added crunch. Serve warm alongside crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a delightful meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4