Creamy Paprika Chicken

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The Ultimate Comfort Dinner in Just 30 Minutes

When it comes to comfort food that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, few dishes beat Creamy Paprika Chicken. This flavorful, satisfying recipe brings together tender chicken breasts, warm aromatic spices, and a velvety cream sauce—all cooked in one skillet. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this is the perfect weeknight dinner that feels like a gourmet treat. Whether you’re cooking for your family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe will leave everyone wanting more.

But what makes this dish truly shine? It’s the balance of flavor: smoky-sweet paprika, rich cream, savory chicken, and just a whisper of garlic to bring it all together. The bonus? It’s all made in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for those busy nights when you want something hearty but fuss-free.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this recipe: from ingredients, prep, step-by-step cooking instructions, tips, and calorie content—to exactly how to make this restaurant-style dish right in your kitchen.

 Why You’ll Love Creamy Paprika Chicken

  • One-pan wonder: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.

  • Ready in 30 minutes: Perfect for weeknights or lazy weekends.

  • Family-friendly: Mild yet flavorful. Add more spice if desired.

  • Versatile: Pairs perfectly with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.

  • Simple ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your pantry.

 Ingredients (US Measurements)

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delicious Creamy Paprika Chicken to life:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 1 tablespoon sweet paprika

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 2 garlic cloves, finely sliced

  • ½ cup heavy cream

  • ½ cup chicken stock

  • â…“ cup all-purpose flour

  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme

  • Pinch of salt

  • Pinch of black pepper

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Each ingredient plays a specific role—from the creamy base to the smoky depth of paprika, these components come together in beautiful harmony.

 How to Prepare the Recipe

Below is a breakdown of each stage to help guide you through the process step by step. Whether you’re a kitchen novice or a home chef, these directions are easy to follow and guarantee delicious results.

 Instructions

 Stage 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Slice Chicken: Start by slicing the chicken breasts horizontally into 2–3 thin fillets. This ensures quicker cooking and better flavor absorption.

  2. Season: Lightly season each piece with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Sprinkle both sides evenly.

  3. Dredge in Flour: Coat each seasoned chicken fillet lightly in all-purpose flour. Shake off excess.

Why it matters: The flour helps create a golden crust and thickens the sauce later when combined in the pan.

 Stage 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil until shimmering but not smoking.

  2. Sear Chicken: Add the floured chicken fillets. Sear each side for 4–5 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).

  3. Set Aside: Remove the chicken from the pan and set on a plate. Tent loosely with foil to keep warm.

Tip: Don’t overcrowd the skillet—cook in batches if necessary for even browning.

 Stage 3: Make the Sauce

  1. Sauté Garlic: In the same pan, add the sliced garlic and sauté gently for about 30 seconds until aromatic. Be careful not to burn.

  2. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken stock. Scrape the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to lift all the tasty browned bits (flavor gold!).

  3. Add Paprika: Stir in the sweet paprika. Let it bubble gently for a minute.

  4. Stir in Cream: Reduce heat to low, then slowly add the heavy cream while stirring. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Bonus: If the sauce is too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons of water or stock to thin it out.

 Stage 4: Combine & Serve

  1. Return Chicken: Place the cooked chicken back into the pan, coating each piece in the sauce.

  2. Simmer Briefly: Let everything simmer together for 2–3 minutes so the flavors meld.

  3. Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley just before serving. Serve warm with your favorite side.

 Prep Time & Cooking Time

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes

  • Cook Time: 25 minutes

  • Total Time: 30 minutes

  • Difficulty Level: Easy

  • Servings: 2–3 people

 Calories & Nutrition (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~665 kcal

  • Protein: 37g

  • Carbohydrates: 14g

  • Fat: 50g

  • Fiber: 1g

  • Sugar: 1g

Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on the brands and ingredients used.

 Serving Suggestions

Creamy Paprika Chicken pairs beautifully with:

  • Mashed Potatoes: Creamy on creamy? Yes, please.

  • Steamed Rice: Jasmine or basmati work perfectly.

  • Buttered Noodles or Pasta: Egg noodles make a fantastic base.

  • Crusty Bread: To soak up every drop of sauce.

  • Roasted Vegetables: Think asparagus, broccoli, or carrots for a complete plate.

 Expert Tips for Best Results

Here are some insider tips to make this recipe even better:

1. Use Sweet Paprika, Not Smoked (unless you want the smokiness)

Sweet paprika offers a warm, mild pepper flavor. Smoked paprika gives a bold, earthy taste—still delicious, but different.

2. Double the Sauce for Extra Creaminess

If you’re a sauce lover, double the cream and stock. You’ll have more to drizzle over sides or soak up with bread.

3. Don’t Skip Deglazing

Those little brown bits stuck to the pan? That’s where the flavor lives. Deglazing with stock lifts them into the sauce for deep, savory taste.

4. Make It Dairy-Free

Swap the cream with coconut cream or a thick plant-based alternative. Use dairy-free butter or oil as needed.

5. Bulk It Up

Add mushrooms, baby spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for extra nutrition and texture.

6. Meal Prep Friendly

This recipe stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop to prevent the cream from separating.

 Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless thighs work well and remain juicy. Just adjust cooking time slightly since thighs take a bit longer.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes. Cook the chicken and prepare the sauce, then store separately. Reheat and combine just before serving.

Is this dish spicy?

Not at all. Sweet paprika is mild. For heat, add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Replace the flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch for dredging.

 Final Thoughts

If you’re on the hunt for a rich, indulgent dinner that doesn’t take forever to prepare, Creamy Paprika Chicken is your answer. The buttery sauce, tender chicken, and warm spice make this a cozy classic you’ll return to time and time again. It’s a one-pan wonder that doesn’t cut corners on flavor—and you can have it on the table in just 30 minutes.

Whether you’re serving it to family, friends, or simply treating yourself after a long day, this meal delivers in every bite. Save it. Share it. Make it your new go-to chicken recipe. You deserve a dinner that’s both easy and unforgettable.

Bon appétit!

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