Creamy Pumpkin Chicken Soup

Name: Creamy Pumpkin Chicken Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups pumpkin puree; 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

I absolutely love making this Creamy Pumpkin Chicken Soup during the fall. The combination of tender chicken, rich pumpkin, and warming spices creates a delightful dish that comforts the soul. With its creamy texture and vibrant color, this soup makes for an inviting meal on chilly evenings. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a hearty family dinner. I cannot wait to share this recipe with you so you can enjoy it as much as I do!

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2026-01-20T13:54:27.928Z

I remember the first time I made this soup; it warmed me up from the inside out after a long day. The sweet and savory flavors blend perfectly, making it a go-to recipe in my kitchen. I discovered that using fresh pumpkin instead of canned really elevates the dish, giving it a richer flavor that friends and family adore.

Another tip I found useful is to sauté the onions and garlic before adding the chicken and pumpkin. This step enhances the overall depth of flavor in the soup. Every spoonful feels like a warm hug, and it’s great for batch cooking to enjoy throughout the week!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A unique twist with seasonal pumpkin flavor
Creamy, comforting consistency perfect for cozy evenings
Easy to make, yet impressive enough for guests

      

Ingredient Insights

The choice of pumpkin puree is crucial for achieving the right flavor and texture in this soup. While you can use canned pumpkin puree for convenience, I recommend selecting brands with no added ingredients to ensure a pure pumpkin taste. If you're feeling adventurous, consider making your own by roasting a pie pumpkin, which can add a richer, more vibrant flavor to the soup.

Shredded chicken adds heartiness to the soup, but its flavor can vary based on how you prepare it. For a richer taste, I suggest using rotisserie chicken, as its seasoning enhances the overall dish. If you prefer to cook your chicken, poaching it in the broth will infuse the meat with extra flavor and keep it moist.

Technique Tips

Achieving the perfect consistency is key when blending the soup. If using an immersion blender, ensure you move it around the pot rather than just blending in one spot to achieve an even texture. If you opt for a traditional blender, blend in small batches to prevent overflow—let it cool slightly to avoid splattering.

When adding the heavy cream, remember to do so at a low heat after the soup has been blended. Heating it gradually helps prevent curdling, resulting in a smooth, creamy finish. This technique also allows for the flavors to meld beautifully without sacrificing the soothing qualities of the cream.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cups pumpkin puree
1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all these ingredients for a deliciously warm soup.

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add Chicken and Pumpkin

Stir in the shredded chicken and pumpkin puree, mixing well to combine.

Pour in the Broth

Add the chicken broth to the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Season the Soup

Stir in the cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Blend for Creaminess

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer to a blender in batches.

Finish with Cream

Stir in the heavy cream, letting the soup heat through. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Enjoy your warm bowl of Creamy Pumpkin Chicken Soup with crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the soup. It complements the pumpkin beautifully.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Creamy Pumpkin Chicken Soup stores wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you plan to make it ahead, I recommend storing the soup without the cream added, as it reheats better that way. Just stir in the cream when you reheat to maintain that fresh texture.

For longer storage, this soup freezes well for up to three months. To freeze, let it cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove, stirring often to achieve a smooth consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this comforting soup with crusty bread or homemade biscuits for a heartwarming meal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or a dash of cayenne pepper can elevate the flavors beautifully while also adding a pop of color to the presentation.

For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out mini pumpkins at fall gatherings. Not only does it create a stunning centerpiece, but it also adds an exciting element to your dinner, impressing guests with both flavor and presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned pumpkin instead of fresh?

Yes, canned pumpkin works well if you're short on time. Just ensure it's 100% pumpkin puree without additives.

→ How can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can omit the chicken and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth, adding extra beans or lentils for protein.

→ Can I freeze leftover soup?

Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then store in airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ How can I make this soup spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños during the sautéing process to give it a nice kick.