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Crockpot Pumpkin Beer Braised Chicken

Crockpot Pumpkin Beer Braised Chicken

  • Author: Mary
  • Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 7 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Slow-cooked to perfection, Crockpot Pumpkin Beer Braised Chicken combines tender bone-in chicken thighs with the sweet creaminess of pumpkin puree and the robust flavors of craft beer for a comforting, seasonal autumn meal. This easy, hands-off recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken in a rich, aromatic sauce, ideal for cozy dinners or entertaining during chilly months.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Meat

  • 4–6 bone-in chicken thighs

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

Liquids

  • 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade, unsweetened)
  • 1 cup beer (lager or amber ale preferred)
  • 1 cup chicken broth

Seasonings and Herbs

  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 2–3 sprigs fresh thyme
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Other

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the bone-in chicken thighs dry and season generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the chicken on both sides until golden, about 4-5 minutes per side. This locks in juices and adds a delicious crust that deepens flavor in the slow cooker.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Using the same skillet, add diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This builds the aromatic foundation for the braising liquid and enhances the overall depth of the dish.
  3. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot: Place the browned chicken in the crockpot. Add the sautéed onions and garlic, pumpkin puree, chicken broth, brown sugar, fresh thyme sprigs, and pour in the beer. Stir gently to combine without disturbing the chicken too much.
  4. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fall-apart tender. The slow cooking allows flavors to meld and the chicken to become incredibly moist.
  5. Finish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken and set aside. Skim any excess fat from the sauce with a spoon, then stir and adjust seasoning as needed. Pour sauce over chicken or serve separately for guests to add as desired.

Notes

  • Brown the Chicken: Always brown chicken before slow-cooking for richer flavor.
  • Choose the Right Beer: Lighter beers work well, but stouts or ales add complexity.
  • Avoid Overcrowding: Arrange chicken thighs in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
  • Skim Fat: Remove excess fat from the sauce after cooking for a balanced dish.
  • Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary provide better flavor than dried.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with sauce
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: pumpkin chicken, crockpot recipes, slow cooker chicken, autumn recipes, beer braised chicken, cozy dinner, gluten free, fall meal

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Find it online: https://marysplate.com/crockpot-pumpkin-beer-braised-chicken/