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As the crisp air of fall begins to settle in, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting pasta dish to bring family and friends together. The Best Pumpkin Chicken Penne perfectly captures the essence of autumn, blending tender chicken, al dente penne, and a creamy, spiced pumpkin sauce that is both indulgent and satisfying. This dish is ideal for cozy weeknight dinners, seasonal gatherings, or even a festive holiday meal.
The inspiration behind this recipe comes from a desire to combine the rich flavors of fall with a hearty, family-friendly pasta dish. Pumpkin, a quintessential fall ingredient, pairs beautifully with savory chicken and aromatic herbs to create a comforting yet elegant dinner that feels special without being complicated. This recipe invites you to embrace the season with every bite.
Ingredients
To make this Pumpkin Chicken Penne, you’ll need fresh, high-quality ingredients that bring out the best flavors.
For the Chicken and Pasta:
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1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
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12 ounces (340g) penne pasta
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Pumpkin Cream Sauce:
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1 cup pumpkin puree (fresh or canned)
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1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
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½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
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¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried sage)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes:
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Toasted pumpkin seeds
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Fresh parsley, chopped
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Extra Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to create a luscious, comforting Pumpkin Chicken Penne that will impress everyone at your table. Each step is designed to ensure maximum flavor, perfect texture, and a visually appealing presentation.
Step 1: Cook the Penne
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Properly salting the water is crucial because it infuses the pasta with flavor from the inside out. Add the penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, meaning it’s firm to the bite but fully cooked. Overcooked pasta will become mushy when combined with the rich pumpkin sauce, so keep a close eye during the last few minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander, but reserve ½ cup of the pasta water. This starchy water is a secret ingredient that can be used later to adjust the sauce’s consistency, helping it cling beautifully to the pasta without becoming too thick or heavy.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While your pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pat your chicken pieces dry with paper towels before seasoning them with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This step helps achieve a nice golden-brown crust on the chicken, which adds both flavor and texture. Add the chicken to the hot skillet and let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes on each side until it develops a rich, golden sear and is fully cooked through, usually about 5–7 minutes. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause the chicken to steam rather than sear. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside; this allows the flavors to rest while you prepare the sauce.
Step 3: Make the Pumpkin Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and, in the same skillet, sauté 2 cloves of minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. The garlic infuses the oil with aroma, creating a flavorful base for your sauce. Stir in 1 cup of pumpkin puree, followed by 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon nutmeg, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and optional crushed red pepper flakes if you like a subtle kick. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The heat should be low enough to prevent curdling while thickening the sauce. This step allows the pumpkin and spices to meld together, creating a creamy, aromatic sauce that’s the heart of the dish.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, gently stirring to coat each piece with the velvety pumpkin sauce. Next, add the drained penne pasta and toss everything together, making sure every piece is evenly coated. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add a splash of the reserved pasta water until the desired creamy consistency is achieved. This simple trick ensures your pasta isn’t dry and allows the sauce to cling beautifully to every penne tube.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Herbs
Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped sage. The cheese enriches the sauce, adding a nutty, savory depth, while the sage brings a warm, herbal note that complements the pumpkin perfectly. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Don’t skip this step—it’s what transforms a simple pasta into a rich, flavorful autumn meal.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Plate your Pumpkin Chicken Penne in shallow bowls or on a large serving platter. Garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds for crunch, extra Parmesan for richness, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and freshness. This final touch elevates both the visual appeal and flavor, making it perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. Serve immediately while warm, and enjoy the comforting, hearty flavors of fall in every bite.
Tips for the Perfect Pumpkin Chicken Penne
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Choose the right pumpkin – Canned pumpkin puree is convenient and works perfectly, but fresh pumpkin adds a subtle sweetness and vibrant color. For fresh pumpkin, roast cubes until tender and blend until smooth.
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Cook pasta al dente – Slightly firm pasta holds up well when mixed with creamy sauces, ensuring each bite is satisfying.
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Balance the spices – Smoked paprika, nutmeg, and cinnamon create warmth and depth without overpowering the dish. Adjust according to taste.
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Creamy consistency – For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or coconut cream for heavy cream. For extra richness, add an additional ¼ cup of cream.
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Reheat with care – Leftovers can be reheated gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
Variations to Try
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Vegan Pumpkin Penne: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas. Swap heavy cream for coconut or oat cream and Parmesan for nutritional yeast or vegan cheese.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the sauce for a subtle heat that complements the pumpkin’s sweetness.
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Nutty Twist: Top with toasted walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor complexity.
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Cheesy Indulgence: Stir in a handful of shredded mozzarella or fontina for a gooey, cheesy version.
Why This Recipe Works
Pumpkin Chicken Penne hits the perfect balance between sweet, savory, and creamy. The pumpkin puree adds body and subtle sweetness, while the aromatic spices enhance depth without overpowering the chicken. Parmesan cheese enriches the sauce, adding a velvety texture and umami punch. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a flavorful pumpkin cream sauce creates a dish that is satisfying, comforting, and visually appealing.
This recipe is versatile, adaptable, and approachable for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Its autumn-inspired flavors evoke warmth and comfort, making it perfect for cozy nights at home or special gatherings.
Pairing Suggestions
Pumpkin Chicken Penne pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and beverages to complete your meal:
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Salads: A crisp arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a spinach and apple salad complements the richness of the pasta.
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Bread: Serve with crusty garlic bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.
Seasonal Inspiration
This dish captures the spirit of fall. The pumpkin adds a touch of seasonal warmth, while the aromatic herbs and spices make it feel festive. It’s perfect for:
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Cozy nights by the fireplace
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Family dinner gatherings
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Seasonal potlucks or fall-themed parties
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Thanksgiving side or main course
The recipe also works well for meal prep. Cook a large batch, store leftovers in the fridge, and enjoy a convenient, satisfying meal throughout the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Comforting and hearty – Perfect for chilly evenings.
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Easy to make – Minimal steps with maximum flavor.
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Family-friendly – Loved by both kids and adults.
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Versatile – Can be adapted for vegan, vegetarian, or lighter versions.
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Seasonal and festive – Ideal for fall gatherings or special occasions.
Pumpkin Chicken Penne is more than just a pasta dish—it’s a celebration of autumn flavors. Its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked penne make it a dish that invites everyone to the table and keeps them coming back for seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal because its tubular shape holds the creamy pumpkin sauce perfectly, this recipe is versatile and works well with many other pasta types. Rigatoni is an excellent choice for those who love a heartier bite, while farfalle (bowtie pasta) or fusilli (spirals) will also trap the sauce beautifully, ensuring every forkful is flavorful. Even spaghetti or linguine can be used if you prefer long noodles, though you may want to slightly reduce the sauce quantity to avoid a soupy consistency. When switching pasta types, always follow package instructions for cooking times, but remember to cook until al dente. Overcooked pasta will become mushy once combined with the pumpkin sauce. Additionally, reserving a bit of pasta water can help adjust the sauce to the perfect consistency, no matter which type you choose.
Can I Prepare Ingredients Ahead of Time?
Yes! This recipe is very meal-prep-friendly. You can dice the chicken, prepare the pumpkin sauce, or even cook the pasta a day ahead. Store the chicken and pumpkin sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce over low heat to prevent curdling, and warm the chicken just until it’s fully heated. Toss with freshly cooked or reheated pasta, and you have a quick, flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Preparing ingredients ahead of time not only saves time but also allows the flavors of the pumpkin and spices to deepen, making the final dish even more delicious.
Can I Make This Gluten-Free?
Certainly! To make this Pumpkin Chicken Penne gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta. Check labels for any other ingredients, such as chicken broth or Parmesan, to ensure they are certified gluten-free. Gluten-free pasta can sometimes cook faster or become softer more quickly than traditional pasta, so keep an eye on texture and drain as soon as it reaches al dente. Using a gluten-free option doesn’t compromise flavor; the creamy pumpkin sauce and tender chicken remain just as satisfying.
How Long Can Leftovers Be Stored?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over low heat and add a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creamy texture. Stir gently until heated through. Avoid reheating at high heat or in the microwave without liquid, as this can cause the sauce to separate. Leftover Pumpkin Chicken Penne also works well for meal prep, making it a convenient and delicious option for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
