This creamy chicken and paprika dish is a cozy delight for dinner. The tender chicken is cooked in a rich, creamy sauce with a touch of smoky paprika that really brings the flavor to life!
Imagine the smell drifting through your kitchen! It’s so easy to make, you’ll feel like a chef in no time. I love serving it over rice or pasta—delicious every time! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: I recommend using skinless, boneless chicken breast for this dish. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken thighs for a richer flavor. They stay juicy even when cooked longer.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps to sauté the veggies and chicken. If you’re looking for an alternative, avocado oil works great too, as it has a high smoke point.
Paprika: Smoked paprika gives a deep, smoky flavor, while sweet paprika adds just a bit of sweetness. If you can’t find smoked paprika, you can use regular paprika with a dash of cayenne pepper for a slight kick.
Heavy Cream: This adds the creaminess to the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative, which will give it a unique twist.
Fresh Parsley: For garnish, I find that fresh parsley brightens up the dish. If you’re out of parsley, fresh cilantro or chives can work nicely too!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy and Tender?
Cooking chicken can sometimes lead to dryness, but there are ways to keep it moist and tender. Here are a few tips:
- Cut the chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Avoid overcooking by keeping an eye on the chicken; it should be golden brown but still juicy inside.
- Consider marinating your chicken beforehand, even just for 30 minutes. A simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic works wonders.
- Cooking it in stages—sautéing first and then simmering in the broth—helps maintain moisture.
Following these tips and techniques will make your creamy chicken dish flavorful and enjoyable! Happy cooking!
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Paprika
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 500g chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, for a total of around 30 minutes. It’s a quick and easy recipe that brings comfort food to your table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the finely chopped onion. Cook it for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent. This will build a lovely base for your dish!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, toss in the minced garlic into the skillet. Cook for 1 more minute until it becomes fragrant. Your kitchen will smell wonderful at this stage!
3. Brown the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are nicely browned on all sides. This step ensures that the chicken is cooked through and packed with flavor.
4. Mix in the Peppers and Paprika:
Stir in the sliced red bell pepper along with the smoked paprika and sweet paprika. Cook everything together for about 2-3 minutes until the peppers start to soften. The colorful peppers will make your dish look appealing and vibrant!
5. Add Chicken Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes, which helps to blend the flavors and keep the chicken moist.
6. Stir in the Cream:
Now, lower the heat and gently fold in the heavy cream. Let it cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens up. Make sure to stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the skillet.
7. Season and Serve:
Once the sauce has thickened, season it with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good mix to combine all the flavors. Serve your creamy chicken and paprika over a warm bed of cooked rice. Don’t forget to garnish with freshly chopped parsley for that lovely finishing touch!
Enjoy your flavorful and creamy chicken dish! It’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free version, try coconut milk or cashew cream. Just keep in mind that the taste and texture will vary slightly, and you may need to adjust the cooking time for thinner liquids.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No worries! You can use regular paprika and add a touch of cayenne pepper for heat, or even a pinch of liquid smoke for that smoky flavor. Alternatively, try a combination of other spices like cumin or chili powder to get a different but tasty flavor profile.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. If the sauce has thickened too much, you can add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up!
Can I Use Another Type of Meat?
Yes, you can! This recipe works well with thighs, turkey, or even pork. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as different meats may require longer or shorter cooking periods. Make sure to cook until the internal temperature reaches a safe level for the meat you choose!
