Chicken Baked in a Pumpkin

Cooking method

1. Step 1:

   

   How do you bake chicken inside a pumpkin? Start by gathering your ingredients. Wash a small pumpkin thoroughly and slice off the top, stem and all. Cut off about 3/4 inch (2 cm) of flesh, no more.

2. Step 2:

   

   With a small sharp knife, trim away some of the flesh to widen the opening, then use a tablespoon to scoop out the seeds and all the stringy insides. You won't need them.

3. Step 3:

   

   If you like, you can carefully notch the rim of the pumpkin into a zigzag of little triangles for a decorative look. A small sharp knife makes this easy.

4. Step 4:

   

   Rinse the chicken breast and pat it dry with paper towels. Cut it into medium cubes.

5. Step 5:

   

   Heat a skillet over high heat. Add one tablespoon of sunflower oil and let it get hot. Keep the heat high and quickly sear the chicken on all sides until the meat turns white — about five minutes. You're not cooking it through here. This fast sear forms a crust that seals the juices inside.

6. Step 6:

   

   Season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste. This is also a good moment to add any of your favorite seasonings.

7. Step 7:

   

   Set the pumpkin in a baking dish that you've greased with a drop of sunflower oil. Spoon the chicken into the pumpkin.

8. Step 8:

   

   Pour the cream into the pumpkin. It can be cold or at room temperature — it makes no difference. Go with 10–20% cream (light or half-and-half); it's just right for sauces.

9. Step 9:

   

   Put the lid back on the pumpkin. Using a pastry brush, coat the entire outside of the pumpkin with the remaining tablespoon of sunflower oil, lid included. Bake in an oven preheated to 350°F (180°C) for one hour. Serve the pumpkin whole on a large platter. Enjoy!