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Creamy Paprika Chicken: A Bold and Comforting One-Pan Dinner

Creamy Paprika Chicken is a rich, flavorful dish that takes tender chicken and elevates it with a smoky, velvety sauce. Paprika — whether sweet, smoked, or hot — adds depth and warmth, while cream and garlic create a luxurious texture that coats every bite. This comforting one-skillet recipe is perfect for family dinners, cozy evenings, or when you want something hearty yet elegant without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (halved horizontally into 4 cutlets)

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 2 teaspoons paprika (sweet or smoked, depending on preference)

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 cup chicken broth

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • ½ cup sour cream (optional, for tang)

  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried thyme

  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  • Season the chicken: Pat chicken cutlets dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

  • Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.

  • Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, melt butter. Add onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

  • Build the sauce: Pour in chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the pan. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and sour cream (if using). Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until smooth.

  • Thicken if desired: If you want a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer for another 1–2 minutes.

  • Return chicken: Place seared chicken back in the skillet. Spoon sauce over the top and simmer for 2–3 minutes until heated through.

  • Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with pasta, rice, or potatoes.