Spicy Pumpkin Chicken Casserole – A Cozy, Flavor-Packed Fall Dinner

As the days get shorter and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty casserole to bring comfort to the table. This Spicy Pumpkin Chicken Casserole combines tender chicken thighs, sweet pumpkin, and creamy potatoes, all tossed in a bold mix of paprika, chili flakes, and sriracha.

It’s the perfect fall or winter dinner—hearty enough to satisfy, colorful enough to brighten your table, and flavorful enough to keep you coming back for seconds. Serve it with fluffy steamed rice and seasonal greens for a wholesome, one-pan meal.

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Pumpkin Chicken Casserole Recipe

You’re going to love this Spicy Pumpkin Chicken Casserole! It’s the perfect dish for fall and brings together all the flavors and comfort you crave. Here’s why it’s such a great recipe:

Bold & Comforting:

The combination of spices and pumpkin creates a cozy, warming flavor that is perfect for fall. The pumpkin adds a subtle sweetness and creaminess, while the spices (like cinnamon, nutmeg, or chili) give it a bold kick. This balance makes it super comforting and satisfying – perfect for cooler weather!

Perfect Fall Colors:

This casserole isn’t just delicious; it’s also beautiful to look at! The golden pumpkin pairs wonderfully with the crispy chicken and earthy potatoes, creating a dish that’s vibrant and full of fall colors. It’s a feast for both the eyes and the stomach!

Customizable Heat:

One of the best things about this recipe is that you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Whether you like it mild or spicy, you can easily add more or less chili, cayenne pepper, or paprika to make it as hot as you like. This makes it a perfect dish for everyone in the family, regardless of how much heat they can handle.

Make-Ahead Friendly:

If you’re short on time, this recipe is make-ahead friendly! You can marinate the chicken and veggies the night before, which helps the flavors soak in and makes prep the next day super easy. It’s great for busy days when you want to have a flavorful meal ready with minimal effort.

One-Pan Wonder:

This recipe is a one-pan wonder, meaning there’s less cleanup afterward. You do all the cooking in one dish – from the chicken and potatoes to the pumpkin. It saves you time in the kitchen and on the cleanup, leaving you with more time to enjoy your meal!

This Spicy Pumpkin Chicken Casserole is the perfect dish for fall, combining flavors, ease, and comfort all in one recipe!

Ingredients & Benefits

• Pumpkin or Butternut Squash – Sweet, nutrient-rich, and perfect for fall.
• Potatoes – Comforting and hearty, they soak up all the spicy juices.
• Chicken Thighs – Juicy, flavorful, and ideal for baking.
• Hot Paprika – Adds smokiness and depth.
• Sriracha Sauce – Brings tangy heat.
• Chili Flakes – A little extra fire.
• Olive Oil – Helps everything roast to golden perfection.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine pumpkin, potatoes, chicken, paprika, chili flakes, sriracha, olive oil, and salt. Toss well to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.

2. Preheat the Oven

Set oven to 400°F (200°C).

3. Assemble for Baking

Transfer the marinated mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.

4. Bake Covered

Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes to lock in moisture.

5. Finish Uncovered

Remove the foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until chicken is fully cooked, vegetables are tender, and the top is lightly browned.

6. Serve

Enjoy hot, with steamed rice and broccoli or Brussels sprouts on the side.

Cooking Tips & Variations

• For Milder Heat – Reduce sriracha or chili flakes.
• Swap the Starch – Use sweet potatoes for an earthy, sweeter twist.
• Flavor Boost – Add garlic cloves or onion slices before baking.
• Make Ahead – Marinate chicken and veggies overnight.
• One-Pan Dinner – Add greens during the last 15 minutes of baking.

Recommended Equipment

• Large Mixing Bowl Set – For marinating and tossing.
• 9×13-inch Baking Dish – Perfect size for casseroles.
• Oven-Safe Foil – For even, moist cooking.
  

How to Serve Spicy Pumpkin Chicken Casserole

Here’s how you can serve your Spicy Pumpkin Chicken Casserole to make the meal even more satisfying and balanced:

With Steamed Rice:

Serve the casserole with a side of steamed rice. The rice will help absorb all the delicious sauces and juices from the casserole, making it even more flavorful. It’s a filling, balanced addition that pairs perfectly with the hearty, spiced chicken and pumpkin.

Alongside Crusty Bread:

If you love having something to dip, serve your casserole with crusty bread. The bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful juices from the casserole, making every bite even better. Plus, the crispy texture of the bread contrasts nicely with the creamy pumpkin and tender chicken.

Paired with a Light Salad:

For a fresh, light contrast to the rich and spicy casserole, serve it with a simple salad. Something like a green salad with a citrus vinaigrette or a mixed greens salad with a light dressing will balance the warmth and richness of the casserole, giving your meal a refreshing, crisp touch.

Great light salad pairings that fit perfectly with a rich and spicy casserole:

Delicious Quick Easy Broccoli Salad with Feta & Toasted Almonds – Crunchy broccoli and tangy feta bring freshness and texture to balance the casserole’s richness.

A Lentil Salad Adventure with Feta Cheese and Garden-Fresh Veggies – Protein-rich yet light, with earthy lentils and crisp vegetables for a refreshing bite.

Your New Go-To Salad – Orange And Tahini Piyaz Delight – The citrus dressing echoes brightness while cutting through heavier, spicy flavors.

Roasted Golden Beet and Goat Cheese Salad – Earthy-sweet beets and creamy cheese add elegance without heaviness.

Quick and Easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad for Busy Weeknights – Chilled pasta with fresh herbs and veggies offers a cool, herby contrast.

Best Ways to Store

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

This Spicy Pumpkin Chicken Casserole isn’t just a meal—it’s a cozy, seasonal hug in a dish. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or a fall gathering, its rich colors, bold spices, and hearty texture make it a guaranteed hit.

Common Questions Answered