Savory Pumpkin Butter Chicken for Cozy Fall Nights

Name: Savory Pumpkin Butter Chicken for Cozy Fall Nights
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts for a leaner option); 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular; substitute with dairy-free yogurt for a lighter twist); 2 tablespoons lemon juice (lime juice is a suitable alternative); 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste (or fresh grated ginger and minced garlic); 1 teaspoon garam masala (curry powder can substitute in a pinch); 1 teaspoon turmeric powder (omit for a milder flavor); 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to your spice preference); 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder (essential in the mix); 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust according to taste); 2 tablespoons olive oil (or ghee; vegetable oil can be a lighter option); 1 medium onion (finely chopped; shallots provide a sweet substitute); 2 cloves garlic (minced; increase for more garlic flavor); 1 inch ginger (grated); 1 can pumpkin puree (15 oz; ensure it’s pure pumpkin, not pie filling); 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz; fresh tomatoes are a delightful alternative); 1 cup heavy cream (opt for coconut milk for a dairy-free version); 1/2 cup chicken broth (vegetable broth works well too); 2 tablespoons butter (omit for a vegan option); 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional to balance the pumpkin’s earthiness); 1 teaspoon garam masala (additional warmth for extra depth); 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (introduces depth and subtle smokiness); 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (amplifies warmth in spices); 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (complements pumpkin beautifully); salt and pepper (to taste); 1 cup cooked basmati rice (or quinoa as a substitute); fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish); Naan bread (optional for dipping)

by Manar Jota

October 20, 2025

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Pumpkin Butter Chicken is my go-to dish for cozy fall evenings. This savory recipe combines tender chicken thighs with a rich, creamy pumpkin sauce that’s both comforting and satisfying. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a warm embrace that makes you feel right at home. As the leaves change colors and the air turns crisp, this dish transforms any dinner into a special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Butter Chicken

This recipe is not just delicious; it’s also packed with benefits! Here’s why you’ll adore this spiced pumpkin chicken dish:

It’s a healthy pumpkin butter chicken option full of flavor yet low in calories.
Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy pumpkin butter chicken recipe comes together quickly.
The use of pumpkin puree adds a creamy texture without excess fat.
It features warm spices that evoke the essence of autumn.
Great as a pumpkin chicken skillet meal, served over rice or quinoa.
Versatile enough to be made in a slow cooker for those lazy days.

This autumn-inspired chicken recipe is not only comforting but also gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs.

Savory Pumpkin Butter Chicken for Cozy Fall Nights - Pumpkin Butter Chicken - main visual representation

Ingredients for Pumpkin Butter Chicken

Gather these items:

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts for a leaner option)
1 cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular; substitute with dairy-free yogurt for a lighter twist)
2 tablespoons lemon juice (lime juice is a suitable alternative)
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste (or fresh grated ginger and minced garlic)
1 teaspoon garam masala (curry powder can substitute in a pinch)
1 teaspoon turmeric powder (omit for a milder flavor)
1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
1/2 teaspoon cumin powder (essential in the mix)
1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust according to taste)
2 tablespoons olive oil (or ghee; vegetable oil can be a lighter option)
1 medium onion (finely chopped; shallots provide a sweet substitute)
2 cloves garlic (minced; increase for more garlic flavor)
1 inch ginger (grated)
1 can pumpkin puree (15 oz; ensure it’s pure pumpkin, not pie filling)
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz; fresh tomatoes are a delightful alternative)
1 cup heavy cream (opt for coconut milk for a dairy-free version)
1/2 cup chicken broth (vegetable broth works well too)
2 tablespoons butter (omit for a vegan option)
1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional to balance the pumpkin’s earthiness)
1 teaspoon garam masala (additional warmth for extra depth)
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (introduces depth and subtle smokiness)
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (amplifies warmth in spices)
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (complements pumpkin beautifully)
salt and pepper (to taste)
1 cup cooked basmati rice (or quinoa as a substitute)
fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
Naan bread (optional for dipping)

How to Make Pumpkin Butter Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, and all the spices including salt. Add the chicken thighs, stirring well to coat. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
Step 2: Heat the olive oil or ghee in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger for an additional minute.
Step 3: Stir in the pumpkin puree and diced tomatoes, mixing to combine.
Step 4: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then add butter, brown sugar (if using), and additional spices. Mix thoroughly and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
Step 5: Pan-fry the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through, bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, or grill for 4-6 minutes per side.
Step 6: Add the cooked chicken to the sauce, ensuring it’s well coated. Let it simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes before serving over rice garnished with fresh cilantro.

Pro Tips for the Best Pumpkin Butter Chicken

Keep these in mind:

This dish pairs well with naan bread for dipping.
Adjust the spice levels according to your preference.
Marinating overnight enhances the flavor.
For a pumpkin-infused chicken dish, try adding more pumpkin puree.
Experiment with different spices to create your own unique blend.

Best Ways to Serve Pumpkin Butter Chicken

When it comes to serving, you have some delightful options:

Serve it over a bed of pumpkin chicken with rice for a filling meal.
Pair it with quinoa for a nutritious alternative.
Enjoy it with warm naan bread for a complete dining experience.

How to Store and Reheat Pumpkin Butter Chicken

To store, let the chicken cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For meal prep, this dish is ideal as it reheats well. Simply warm it in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Butter Chicken

What’s the secret to perfect Pumpkin Butter Chicken?

The secret lies in marinating the chicken for an extended period, allowing it to absorb all the spices and yogurt, resulting in tender and flavorful meat. You can also adjust the spices to suit your palate.

Can I make Pumpkin Butter Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. This enhances the flavors even more!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pumpkin Butter Chicken?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you don’t overcook the chicken, as it can become dry. Also, balance the spices according to your taste for the best flavor experience.

Variations of Pumpkin Butter Chicken You Can Try

Here are some delightful variations to consider:

For a pumpkin chicken slow cooker recipe, simply combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Make it a pumpkin and chicken stew by adding more vegetables like carrots and potatoes.
For a creamy twist, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a gluten-free pumpkin butter chicken.

Savory Pumpkin Butter Chicken for Cozy Fall Nights - Pumpkin Butter Chicken - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe collection. You might also enjoy Indian Butter Chicken or Peruvian Chicken and Rice. If you’re looking for a healthy twist, consider trying Coconut Chicken Meatballs or Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry.

For more information on the health benefits of pumpkin, you can visit Healthline.