Marry Pumpkin Chicken Pasta: 1 Amazing Creamy Dish

October 4, 2025

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Marry Me Pumpkin Chicken Pasta has this magical way of making any night feel like a special occasion. I remember the first time I tasted a similar dish – the creamy, dreamy sauce coating perfectly cooked pasta with tender chicken, all infused with the warm, comforting essence of pumpkin and sage. It was pure bliss! This recipe takes that feeling and elevates it, creating a truly unforgettable meal that’s surprisingly straightforward to make. It’s quickly become my go-to for impressing guests or just treating myself to an incredibly satisfying dinner. Get ready to fall in love with this easy pumpkin chicken pasta recipe – let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Pumpkin Chicken Pasta

This creamy pumpkin chicken pasta is an absolute winner for so many reasons. Get ready to discover why it will become a staple in your recipe rotation:

Unforgettable Flavor: The combination of savory chicken, rich pumpkin, and aromatic herbs creates a uniquely delicious taste.
Incredibly Creamy Texture: The heavy cream and Parmesan cheese create a luxurious, velvety sauce that coats every bite.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a romantic evening, this dish is always a hit.
Impressive Yet Easy: It looks and tastes gourmet, but this pumpkin chicken pasta recipe is surprisingly simple to whip up.
Comfort Food Classic: It’s the ultimate cozy meal, bringing warmth and satisfaction with every forkful.
Versatile Ingredients: Easily adaptable with different pasta shapes or protein substitutions.
Visually Appealing: The beautiful orange hue from the pumpkin, flecked with sun-dried tomatoes and herbs, makes it a feast for the eyes.
Quick Pumpkin Chicken Pasta Dinner: You can have this delightful meal on the table in about an hour, making it perfect for busy evenings.

Ingredients for Marry Me Pumpkin Chicken Pasta

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this dream of a creamy pumpkin chicken pasta dish. I’ve found that using quality ingredients makes all the difference in achieving that perfect savory pumpkin chicken pasta flavor.

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces – using thighs keeps it extra moist!
1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more for the sauce
1 teaspoon salt, plus more for pasta water and to taste
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional) – adds a lovely subtle smokiness
12 ounces penne, rigatoni, cavatappi, or orecchiette pasta – choose a shape that holds sauce well
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped – about 1 cup
4 cloves garlic, minced – don’t skimp on the garlic!
½ cup chicken broth (for non-alcohol substitute) – this helps deglaze the pan
1 (15-ounce) can 100% pure pumpkin puree – make sure it’s not pie filling!
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream – for that luscious, creamy texture
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil, drained well and thinly sliced – these add a burst of intense flavor
2 tablespoons fresh sage, finely chopped – sage is a classic pairing with pumpkin
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg – a little goes a long way
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – for a touch of heat
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving – use the good stuff!
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Marry Me Pumpkin Chicken Pasta

Making this creamy chicken and pumpkin pasta dish is a rewarding process that culminates in an unforgettable meal. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll have a restaurant-worthy dinner on your table in no time!

Preparing the Chicken

First, cut your chicken into uniform 1-inch pieces. Toss them generously with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and ¼ teaspoon of smoked paprika if you’re using it. This initial seasoning ensures every bite of chicken is flavorful. Set the seasoned chicken aside while you get the other ingredients ready.

Building the Creamy Pumpkin Sauce

Melt the butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes – you’ll notice a sweet aroma filling your kitchen. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just one minute until fragrant. Pour in ½ cup of chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any delicious browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer and reduce for a couple of minutes. Then, whisk in the pumpkin puree, 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth, and the heavy cream until the sauce is smooth and beautifully creamy. Stir in the sliced sun-dried tomatoes, chopped sage, thyme leaves, nutmeg, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let this delightful sauce gently simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Cooking the Pasta and Combining

While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. Before draining, be sure to reserve about 1 to 1.5 cups of that starchy pasta water – it’s liquid gold for adjusting sauce consistency! Drain the pasta well. Return the creamy pumpkin sauce to low heat. Add the cooked pasta and the seared chicken pieces to the skillet. Toss everything gently to coat. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually stir in some of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired creamy consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings one last time before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Marry Me Pumpkin Chicken Pasta

Want to elevate your creamy chicken and pumpkin pasta dish to absolute perfection? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that guarantee a fantastic result every time. These simple tips will help you achieve that restaurant-quality flavor and texture for your fall pumpkin chicken pasta.

Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Sear it just until cooked through; it will finish cooking in the sauce, keeping it tender.
Use Full-Fat Cream: For the richest, most luxurious sauce, opt for heavy cream rather than lighter alternatives.
Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Pumpkin can sometimes mute flavors, so tasting and adding salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes at the end is crucial.
Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy water is your best friend for achieving the perfect sauce consistency without watering it down.

What’s the secret to perfect Marry Me Pumpkin Chicken Pasta?

The real secret to this fantastic Marry Me Pumpkin Chicken Pasta lies in building layers of flavor. Searing the chicken first, sautéing the aromatics until sweet, deglazing the pan, and allowing the sauce to gently simmer all contribute to its incredible depth.

Can I make Marry Me Pumpkin Chicken Pasta ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and the sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop, then add the cooked chicken and pasta, along with a splash of pasta water if needed, to finish the dish.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Marry Me Pumpkin Chicken Pasta?

A common pitfall is using pumpkin pie filling instead of pure pumpkin puree – always check your can! Also, avoid overcooking the pasta; al dente is key as it will continue to cook slightly in the sauce. Lastly, don’t skip reserving that pasta water!

Best Ways to Serve Marry Me Pumpkin Chicken Pasta

This rich and savory pumpkin chicken pasta is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple additions to make it a complete dining experience. For a delightful contrast, I love serving it alongside a crisp, fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. A side of crusty garlic bread is also fantastic for soaking up any extra sauce – because you’ll definitely want to savor every last drop of this creamy chicken and pumpkin pasta dish! For a truly special occasion, consider a sprinkle of toasted pepitas for added crunch and a touch of elegance.

Nutrition Facts for Marry Me Pumpkin Chicken Pasta

This creamy chicken and pumpkin pasta dish is wonderfully satisfying. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving (based on 1/4 of the recipe):

Calories: Approx. 750
Fat: Approx. 45g
Saturated Fat: Approx. 25g
Unsaturated Fat: Approx. 20g
Trans Fat: Approx. 1g
Protein: Approx. 35g
Carbohydrates: Approx. 55g
Fiber: Approx. 6g
Sugar: Approx. 8g
Sodium: Approx. 600mg
Cholesterol: Approx. 160mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used in your Marry Me Pumpkin Chicken Pasta.

How to Store and Reheat Marry Me Pumpkin Chicken Pasta

I know you’ll want to savor every bite of this incredible Marry Me Pumpkin Chicken Pasta, so knowing how to store and reheat it properly is key. Once your creamy chicken and pumpkin pasta dish has cooled down slightly, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. It will stay delicious in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, this dish freezes beautifully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, and it can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, the best way to reheat is gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth if the sauce seems a bit thick. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Marry Me Pumpkin Chicken Pasta

What kind of pasta is best for this Marry Me Pumpkin Chicken Pasta?

I find that short, sturdy pasta shapes work wonderfully for this creamy pumpkin chicken pasta recipe. Penne, rigatoni, cavatappi, or orecchiette are excellent choices because their nooks and crannies hold onto that luscious sauce beautifully. Avoid long, thin pastas like spaghetti, as they can get lost in the rich sauce.

Can I make this a spicy pumpkin chicken pasta?

Absolutely! If you love a little heat, you can easily amp up the spice level in this Marry Me Pumpkin Chicken Pasta. I recommend adding an extra ¼ teaspoon, or even a full ½ teaspoon, of red pepper flakes along with the other seasonings. You could also add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning for an extra kick.

Is this recipe considered a healthy pumpkin chicken pasta?

While this Marry Me Pumpkin Chicken Pasta is incredibly delicious and comforting, it is on the richer side due to the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. For a lighter version, you could try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or incorporate pureed cauliflower into the sauce to add volume and nutrients without as much fat. You can also focus on lean chicken breasts and a whole wheat pasta for added fiber.

What can I serve with this Marry Me Pumpkin Chicken Pasta?

This chicken and pumpkin pasta dish is quite satisfying on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with simple sides. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a lovely contrast to the creamy sauce. Crusty bread is also a must for soaking up every last bit of that delicious sauce. For a more complete meal, consider roasted Brussels sprouts or steamed asparagus.

Variations of Marry Me Pumpkin Chicken Pasta You Can Try

This creamy chicken and pumpkin pasta is so beloved, but I love how adaptable it is! You can easily tailor this Marry Me Pumpkin Chicken Pasta to fit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to spark your creativity for your next fall pumpkin chicken pasta adventure.

Vegetarian Delight: Skip the chicken and add a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas or cannellini beans to the sauce in Step 4. This makes for a hearty and satisfying vegan pumpkin chicken pasta alternative.
One-Pot Wonder: For a quicker cleanup, try a one-pot pumpkin chicken pasta method. Sauté the aromatics in the pot, add the uncooked pasta, broth, pumpkin, and cream, then simmer until pasta is cooked, stirring frequently. Add the cooked chicken at the end.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, double the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning for a truly spicy pumpkin chicken pasta.
Gluten-Free Option: Simply swap out the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free penne or rigatoni. Ensure your other ingredients are also certified gluten-free.

Marry Pumpkin Chicken Pasta: 1 Amazing Creamy Dish

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Author: Angela
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 4 - 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A creamy and delicious pasta dish featuring tender chicken and a rich pumpkin sauce, perfect for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight meal. This Marry Me Pumpkin Chicken Pasta is a modern classic that balances savory and subtly sweet flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
12 ounces penne, rigatoni, cavatappi, or orecchiette pasta
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup chicken broth (for non-alcohol substitute)
1 (15-ounce) can 100% pure pumpkin puree
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil, drained well and thinly sliced
2 tablespoons fresh sage, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Extra grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

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Instructions

Prepare the chicken: Cut chicken into 1-inch pieces. Toss with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, ½ tsp garlic powder, and ¼ tsp smoked paprika. Set aside. Finely chop onion and mince garlic. Thinly slice drained sun-dried tomatoes. Chop fresh sage and pick thyme leaves. Measure out pumpkin puree, chicken broth, heavy cream, nutmeg, red pepper flakes, and grate Parmesan. Fill a large pot with salted water (1-2 tbsp salt) for pasta; bring to a boil later.
Sear the chicken: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken to a plate.
Sauté aromatics: Reduce heat to medium. Add 2 tbsp unsalted butter and 1 tbsp olive oil to the skillet. Sauté onion for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in minced garlic; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Deglaze and build sauce base: Add ½ cup chicken broth (replacing wine). Scrape up browned bits from the pan. Let the broth simmer and reduce for 2-3 minutes. Stir in pumpkin puree, 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth, and 1 cup heavy cream. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
Add flavorings and simmer: Add sun-dried tomatoes, chopped fresh sage, fresh thyme leaves, ½ tsp ground nutmeg, and ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing flavors to meld and sauce to thicken. Remove from heat.
Finish with cheese: Stir in ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese until completely melted and smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
Cook pasta: Cook pasta in boiling salted water according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 to 1.5 cups of the starchy pasta cooking water. Drain pasta thoroughly (do not rinse).
Combine and serve: Return the creamy pumpkin sauce skillet to low heat. Add the drained pasta and seared chicken pieces to the sauce. Toss gently to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water, ¼ cup at a time, stirring until desired consistency. Taste the entire dish and make any final seasoning adjustments. Serve immediately, garnished generously with fresh chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.