Description

This comforting and creamy Pumpkin Parmesan Chicken Skillet combines tender chicken breasts, smoked turkey bacon, and warm autumn spices in a luscious, velvety sauce featuring pureed pumpkin and plant-based Parmesan cheese. A one-pan, quick-to-prepare dish perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekend meals, offering healthy protein and rich flavors with minimal clean-up.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Main Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 slices smoked turkey bacon, diced
1 cup pureed pumpkin (plain, no added sugars or spices)
1/2 cup plant-based Parmesan cheese

Aromatics and Spices

1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (natural)
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (natural)
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (natural)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Liquids and Sauces

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)

Other

1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the ingredients: Dice the smoked turkey bacon into bite-sized pieces and finely chop the onion and garlic. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels for even browning.
Cook smoked turkey bacon and aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the smoked turkey bacon and cook until crispy and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and golden to release their sweetness.
Sear the chicken breasts: Increase heat to medium-high. Lightly season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place in skillet and sear each side for about 4 minutes, until golden crust forms but chicken is not fully cooked.
Create the pumpkin Parmesan sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Add pureed pumpkin, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, cinnamon, nutmeg, smoked paprika, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine. Sprinkle the natural gelling agent evenly over the sauce to slightly thicken.
Simmer and finish cooking: Return smoked turkey bacon to the skillet. Cover and simmer gently for 8-10 minutes, allowing chicken to finish cooking and sauce to thicken to a velvety texture. Sprinkle plant-based Parmesan cheese on top and let it melt into the sauce for a creamy finish.
Garnish and serve: Scatter fresh parsley over the skillet before serving for a burst of color and fresh herbal notes. Serve hot and enjoy your Pumpkin Parmesan Chicken Skillet.

Notes

Use room temperature chicken breasts for even cooking and juicy results.
Do not overcrowd the pan when searing to ensure a golden crust on the chicken.
If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it.
Start with small amounts of warming spices and adjust to taste to keep flavors balanced.
Cook smoked turkey bacon separately to maintain its crispness before adding it back into the sauce.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 420
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 700mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 45g
Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: pumpkin chicken skillet, plant-based Parmesan, smoked turkey bacon, autumn recipe, creamy chicken, one-pan meal, gluten free, quick dinner