When fall flavors meet bold spices, something magical happens. These savory-sweet pumpkin chicken bites wrapped in crispy wonton wrappers are packed with warm spices, tender chicken, and earthy pumpkin, all brought to life with a drizzle of real maple syrup and a touch of heat. They’re the ultimate appetizer for cozy gatherings, game nights, or holiday spreads.
Imagine the comforting taste of pumpkin pie colliding with spicy roasted chicken and wrapped in a crunchy shell—it’s an appetizer that surprises and delights with every bite. Whether you’re planning your Thanksgiving menu or just want to impress guests with a creative fall dish, these bite-sized wonders bring all the flavor without the fuss.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Chicken Wonton Bites with Maple Glaze
-
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
-
1 package wonton wrappers, 4 x 4 inches (10 x 10 centimeters)
-
1 1/2 cups (360 g) pumpkin purée (not pie filling)
-
1 fresh jalapeño, seeded and diced
-
1/2 cup (120 ml) real maple syrup
-
1/4 teaspoon ground fenugreek (see notes below)
-
1 1/2 teaspoons ground allspice
-
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
-
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
-
2 teaspoons dried basil
-
1/4 teaspoon ground red pepper (adjust to taste)
-
2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter
-
1 teaspoon salt
-
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
-
1 cup (240 ml) water for sealing the wontons
For the Maple Basting Sauce
-
1 tablespoon (15 ml) real maple syrup
-
2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter, melted
-
Dash of ground red pepper
How to Make Pumpkin Chicken Wonton Bites
-
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the fenugreek, allspice, cinnamon, and cumin for about 1 minute to activate the flavors. Once the aroma fills your kitchen, remove from heat and transfer spices to a small bowl. Set aside.
Tip: Fenugreek is often used in Indian cuisine and brings a maple-like aroma. Be cautious with quantity—it can become bitter in excess. If unsure, skip it and add a little extra maple syrup instead. -
Dice the chicken into small pieces. In a medium skillet, melt 2 tablespoons (28 g) of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and sauté until fully cooked and no longer pink.
-
Stir in the toasted spices and cook for another minute. Add the pumpkin purée and sauté everything together for a few more minutes until well blended. Turn off the heat.
-
Mix in the maple syrup, basil, salt, and black pepper to the chicken-pumpkin mixture. Stir thoroughly and taste-test—adjust salt or syrup as needed. Set aside.
-
Prepare your wontons: Pour 1 cup (240 ml) of water into a small bowl. Lay out a wonton wrapper and moisten the edges with water using a pastry brush or your fingers. Place about 1 tablespoon (15 g) of the chicken-pumpkin filling in the center.
-
Fold the wrapper in half diagonally and press the edges to seal, ensuring no filling escapes. Place each sealed wonton on a baking sheet lined with foil and lightly sprayed with oil. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, melt 2 tablespoons (28 g) of butter (about 30 seconds in the microwave), then stir in 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of maple syrup and a dash of ground red pepper. Brush this glaze over each filled wonton.
-
Bake for 20–22 minutes until golden brown and crispy around the edges.
-
Remove from oven and serve warm. Optional: Serve with extra maple syrup on the side for dipping.
These Maple Chicken Pumpkin Bites are a unique and crave-worthy spin on fall flavors. The contrast of sweet maple and pumpkin with savory chicken and warm spices creates a balance that’s hard to resist. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy evenings, these little appetizers will disappear before you know it.
Pair them with a mulled cider or spiced cocktail, and you’ve got a show-stopping autumn appetizer everyone will rave about. Trust us—once you make these, they’ll become a seasonal staple in your kitchen.
