Crock Pot Chicken Pumpkin Chili

Crock Pot Chicken Pumpkin Chili

This Crock Pot Chicken Pumpkin Chili is a simple and flavorful recipe, which includes pumpkin puree and red bell peppers. It’s a healthy twist on the classic, ready in about 6 hours and 10 minutes.

Crock Pot Chicken Pumpkin Chili Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 2.5 cups red or orange bell peppers, chopped
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1.5 teaspoons chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ cup chicken broth (low or no salt)
  • Avocado or guacamole, green onions (for serving)
Crock Pot Chicken Pumpkin Chili
Crock Pot Chicken Pumpkin Chili

How To Make Crock Pot Chicken Pumpkin Chili

  1. Prep vegetables: Chop the onions and peppers. (Optional: Sauté them in 1 teaspoon of olive oil for 2 minutes.)
  2. Layer the slow cooker: Place chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Add pumpkin puree, chopped vegetables, chicken broth, and all spices on top.
  3. Cook the chili: Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours.
  4. Shred the chicken: After cooking, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks or on a cutting board, then stir to combine.
  5. Optional thickening: Let the chili sit for 10-20 minutes to allow the chicken to absorb more liquid.
  6. Serve and garnish: Garnish with avocado or guacamole and green onions before serving.
Crock Pot Chicken Pumpkin Chili
Crock Pot Chicken Pumpkin Chili

Recipe Tips

  • What’s the best way to serve this chili? Try it over cauliflower rice, roasted potatoes, or salad for paleo/Whole30. It’s also great with rice or quinoa.
  • Can I freeze chicken pumpkin chili? Yes, divide leftovers into small containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Can I use ground turkey or beef? Yes, just brown the meat before adding it to the crockpot.
  • How to make it spicier: Add diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
  • How to thicken the chili naturally: Let it sit uncovered after cooking for 10–20 minutes.

What To Serve With Chicken Pumpkin Chili

This hearty chili pairs well with light sides and toppings:

  • Cauliflower rice or roasted potatoes
  • Rice or quinoa
  • Mixed greens or a simple salad
  • Tortilla chips or plantains
  • Lime wedges or hot sauce
Crock Pot Chicken Pumpkin Chili
Crock Pot Chicken Pumpkin Chili

How To Store Chicken Pumpkin Chili

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4–5 days.
Freeze: Cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Chicken Pumpkin Chili Nutrition Facts

  • Calories: 197 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Protein: 26g
  • Fat: 4g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 73mg
  • Sodium: 298mg
  • Potassium: 815mg
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Calcium: 40mg
  • Iron: 2mg

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs

Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes, prep the veggies and seasonings ahead and store them in the fridge until ready to cook.

Can I cook this on HIGH instead of LOW?
Yes, cook on HIGH for about 3–4 hours instead.

Does this chili taste sweet from the pumpkin?
No, the pumpkin adds creaminess without a strong flavor.

What toppings go well with this?
Try avocado, green onions, Greek yogurt, or sharp cheddar.

Can I make it in the Instant Pot?
Yes, use the pressure cook setting for about 12 minutes and quick release.

Try More Recipes:

Crock Pot Chicken Pumpkin Chili

Recipe by Robert Course: DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

6

hours 
Calories

197

kcal

A light, flavorful slow cooker chili made with pumpkin, bell peppers, and shredded chicken—perfect for a clean, comforting meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 1 cup onion, finely chopped

  • 2.5 cups red or orange bell peppers, chopped

  • 1 cup pumpkin puree

  • 1.5 tsp chili powder

  • 2 tsp paprika

  • 1 tsp cumin

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ¼ tsp salt

  • ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth

  • Avocado or green onions for topping

Directions

  • Chop onions and peppers (optional: sauté briefly).
  • Lay chicken in crockpot. Add pumpkin, veggies, broth, and spices.
  • Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours.
  • Shred chicken and stir to combine.
  • Optional: Let sit 10-20 mins to thicken.
  • Garnish and serve with desired toppings.