If you want a simple homemade meal that’s gentle on your dog’s stomach and packed with nutrition, this easy chicken and pumpkin dog food recipe is a solid choice.
It uses lean chicken for protein, pumpkin for digestion, and brown rice for steady energy. No strange ingredients. No complicated steps. Just real food you can make in your own kitchen.
And the best part? You can adjust it depending on your dog’s size, taste, or dietary needs.
Homemade Chicken & Pumpkin Dog Food Recipe
Here’s everything you need to make this healthy meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
3 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
A lean source of protein that supports muscle growth and daily energy.
1 cup brown rice
Provides fiber and slow-digesting carbohydrates for sustained energy.
1 cup fresh pumpkin (chopped) or plain canned pumpkin
Rich in fiber and beta-carotene. Helps with digestion and stool consistency.
1 tablespoon olive oil
Adds healthy fats that support coat health and overall energy.
¼ teaspoon dried parsley
Freshens breath and contains vitamins K and C.
Optional Add-Ons
½ cup chopped green beans
Low-calorie vegetable that adds fiber and supports weight control.
¼ teaspoon turmeric
May support joint health due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
1 boiled egg (chopped)
Adds extra protein and healthy fats.
Substitutes
Chicken:
You can use ground turkey or lean ground beef instead.
Brown Rice:
Swap with quinoa or oatmeal if your dog does better without rice.
Pumpkin:
Sweet potato works well and offers similar nutrients.
Step-by-Step Instructions
#1 Stovetop Method
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Rinse the brown rice under cold water. Chop fresh pumpkin into small cubes if using.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Cook the chicken for 6–8 minutes per side until fully done.
Let it cool, then chop into small pieces.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
Bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
Add rice, cover, and reduce heat.
Simmer for 35–40 minutes until tender.
Step 4: Cook the Pumpkin
Steam pumpkin with a small amount of water for 10–12 minutes until soft.
Mash lightly if desired.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Mix chicken, rice, pumpkin, and parsley in a large pot.
Stir well and cook on low for 3–5 minutes to blend flavors.
Step 6: Cool Before Serving
Let the food cool completely before giving it to your dog.
#2 Crockpot Method
Place raw chicken, brown rice, pumpkin, olive oil, parsley, and 3 cups of water into a slow cooker.
Cook on:
-
Low for 6–7 hours
or -
High for 3–4 hours
Once done, shred the chicken and mix everything well.
Allow it to cool before serving.
Storing and Serving
Proper storage keeps the food safe and fresh.
Cooling:
Let the food reach room temperature before storing.
Portioning:
Divide into daily servings to make feeding easier.
Refrigeration:
Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
Freezing:
Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Label with the date.
Reheating:
Thaw overnight in the fridge. Warm slightly before serving. Never serve hot food.
Feeding Guidelines
Portion sizes depend on your dog’s size and activity level.
Small Dogs (under 20 lbs):
½ to ¾ cup per day, split into two meals.
Medium Dogs (20–50 lbs):
1 to 1½ cups per day.
Large Dogs (50–75 lbs):
2 to 2½ cups per day.
Giant Breeds (75+ lbs):
3 to 4 cups daily.
Watch your dog’s weight and energy.
If they gain too much weight, reduce slightly.
If they seem hungry or lose weight, increase slowly.
Always consult your veterinarian before switching to a fully homemade diet long-term.
Benefits of the Ingredients
Chicken
High-quality protein that supports muscle repair and overall health.
Brown Rice
Easy to digest and provides steady energy.
Pumpkin
Supports digestive health and helps regulate bowel movements.
Olive Oil
Promotes healthy skin and a shiny coat.
Parsley
Contains antioxidants and may help freshen breath.
Final Thoughts
This easy chicken and pumpkin dog food recipe is simple, affordable, and made with real ingredients you can trust.
It’s gentle on digestion, easy to store, and flexible enough to adjust for your dog’s needs.
Try it once and see how your dog responds. Most dogs love the taste — and you’ll know exactly what’s in their bowl.
