As the aroma of sizzling butter fills the kitchen, it sparks a memory of my grandmother’s joyful laughter—her signature Chicken Paprikash simmering away on the stove. This dish, with its roots in Hungarian tradition, promises to transport you straight to the heart of comfort food heaven. My Easy One-Pot Chicken Paprikash features boneless, skinless chicken cooked to tender perfection in a creamy, paprika-infused sauce that’s incredibly satisfying yet simple to whip up on a busy weeknight. Not only is this dish a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for more, but it also pairs beautifully with egg noodles, dumplings, or even cozy mashed potatoes. So, are you ready to bring a taste of family warmth and comfort to your table? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why is Chicken Paprikash a Must-Try?

Comforting Flavor: This Chicken Paprikash brings the warmth of home cooking right to your plate, with its rich, creamy, and paprika-infused sauce that wraps around tender chicken pieces.

Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pot recipe allows you to get a delicious meal on the table without the hassle of extensive clean-up.

Versatile Pairing: Serve it over egg noodles, dumplings, or mashed potatoes; this dish is adaptable, ensuring everyone finds their favorite way to enjoy it.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Be prepared for compliments when you share this meal with family and friends—it’s a guaranteed hit!

Flavorful Tradition: Embrace Hungarian heritage in your kitchen with this dish that not only comforts but offers rich culinary history, making every bite meaningful.

Chicken Paprikash Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Boneless, skinless chicken – This is the primary protein source that keeps the dish lean yet satisfying.

For the Sauce
• All-purpose flour – Used for dusting the chicken and thickening the creamy sauce.
• Sweet paprika – Preferably Hungarian; it provides the authentic flavor that defines Chicken Paprikash.
• Butter – Salted or unsalted; it enriches the sauce with a smooth, buttery taste.
• Onion – Sweet yellow onion, finely chopped; it adds a sweet depth to the overall flavor.
• Garlic – Fresh garlic, minced; it enhances the aromatic flavor blockbuster for comfort food nights.

For Cooking
• Chicken broth – Opt for low sodium; this creates a flavorful base for your sauce.
• Kosher salt – Essential for seasoning; it enhances all the flavors going into the dish.
• Black pepper – Fresh ground; it adds a mild heat to balance the richness of the sauce.

For Creaminess
• Sour cream – Full-fat is preferred for that creamy, tangy finish that makes this dish irresistible.

For Garnish
• Fresh parsley – Chopped, for a burst of color and freshness that brightens the dish as you serve!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy One-Pot Chicken Paprikash

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, toss the boneless, skinless chicken pieces with 1.5 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and 1 tablespoon of sweet paprika. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated to enhance flavor and create a nice crust during cooking. This preparation sets the stage for a flavor-packed Chicken Paprikash.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is bubbling, add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer. Sear them for about 6-7 minutes, turning halfway through until they turn golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside, keeping the flavorful drippings for the sauce.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions
Using the same skillet, add the chopped sweet onion and sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become soft and translucent. This step builds an aromatic foundation for your Chicken Paprikash, filling your kitchen with a delightful fragrance.

Step 4: Add Garlic
Reduce the heat slightly and stir in the minced garlic, cooking for an additional 1 minute. Watch closely as you want the garlic to become fragrant and slightly golden, ensuring it doesn’t burn. This will add an extra layer of flavor to your comforting dish.

Step 5: Create the Base
Sprinkle the remaining flour (1 tablespoon) and 1 tablespoon of paprika into the skillet. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to combine. This step helps to thicken the sauce and enhances the deep paprika flavors, which are essential in a traditional Chicken Paprikash.

Step 6: Whisk in the Broth
Gradually whisk in 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth until well combined. Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken for about 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce has a smooth consistency, perfect for enveloping the chicken.

Step 7: Add the Cream
Stir in the full-fat sour cream until fully incorporated, creating a rich and creamy texture. Carefully reintroduce the browned chicken along with any accumulated juices back to the skillet. Heat gently for about 3-4 minutes, ensuring the chicken is heated through without boiling, preserving the creaminess of your Chicken Paprikash.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Finish your Chicken Paprikash by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot over a bed of egg noodles, dumplings, or cozy mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal. The vibrant colors and delightful aroma make this dish a comforting centerpiece for any gathering or family dinner.

Storage Tips for Chicken Paprikash

Refrigerator: Store leftover Chicken Paprikash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps keep the flavors vibrant while maintaining texture.

Reheating: When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure the creamy sauce doesn’t separate. Add a splash of chicken broth if needed.

Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for Chicken Paprikash due to the dairy in the sour cream, which may separate and alter the texture upon thawing.

Serving Tips: Always serve piping hot, garnished with fresh parsley, to revive the comforting aromas of this classic dish.

What to Serve with Easy One-Pot Chicken Paprikash

Elevate your dining experience with delicious accompaniments that perfectly complement the creamy, paprika-infused delight of Chicken Paprikash.

Egg Noodles: Their smooth texture absorbs the rich sauce, making each bite a comforting experience.
Steamed Dumplings: These fluffy treats add a lovely pillowy contrast, soaking up the creamy sauce beautifully.
Spaetzle: Tiny, buttery noodles that provide an ideal canvas for the flavorful sauce, enhancing the dish’s heartiness.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A classic side, their velvety texture pairs effortlessly with the silky sauce for pure comfort in every forkful.
Roasted Vegetables: Bright, caramelized veggies bring a wonderful textural contrast and nutrients to balance out the richness of the dish.
Crispy Bread: Serve warm and toasted to soak up extra sauce, it’s a delightful way to bring crunch to your meal.
Bright Salad: A fresh, citrusy salad brightens the plate, providing a refreshing contrast to the heaviness of the Chicken Paprikash.
Chardonnay: A glass of this crisp white wine balances the richness of the dish, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Apple Strudel: Finish your meal with this sweet, flaky dessert that pairs beautifully after the savory Chicken Paprikash, nodding to its Hungarian roots.

Expert Tips for Chicken Paprikash

Choose Quality Paprika: Use Hungarian sweet paprika for an authentic flavor; avoid low-grade varieties that may taste dull and lack depth.
Don’t Rush the Browning: Take your time to sear the chicken until golden brown. This develops rich flavor and crucial fond for your sauce.
Control the Heat: Maintain low heat when adding sour cream to prevent curdling. Be gentle—it’s essential for achieving that creamy Chicken Paprikash texture.
Adjust Sauce Thickness: If your sauce is too thick, gradually add more chicken broth, about 2 tablespoons at a time, whisking until you reach your desired consistency.
Make it Your Own: Experiment with different variations, like adding hot paprika for a kick or using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version.

Chicken Paprikash Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to experiment with these delicious variations to make this Chicken Paprikash recipe uniquely yours!

Bone-In Chicken: Swap boneless chicken for bone-in pieces for deeper, richer flavor that enhances the overall dish.
Spicy Twist: Add hot or smoked paprika to the mix for an exciting kick that balances beautifully with the creamy sauce. A dash of spice can elevate comfort food to another level.
Greek Yogurt: Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter, smoother finish that still brings that beloved creaminess.
Vegetarian Option: Use mushrooms or chickpeas instead of chicken to create a hearty vegetarian version that’s full of flavor and protein.
Add Vegetables: Toss in bell peppers or peas during the sautéing phase for an extra burst of color and nutrients. The veggies will soak up the rich sauce, making them even more delicious.
Stir in Cheese: For a cheesy twist, add a bit of grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar at the end; it melts into the sauce, creating an irresistible, creamy layer of flavor.
Herb Enhancements: Experiment by adding fresh herbs like thyme or dill for an aromatic depth that complements the paprika perfectly.

Looking for more chicken inspiration? Try out my easy Cheesy Garlic Chicken for a delightful spin, or dive into some tender Garlic Chicken Thighs that make every dinner a feast!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy One-Pot Chicken Paprikash is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chicken and sauté the onions up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Simply toss your chicken pieces in flour and paprika, then refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. You can also pre-mix the sauce (without the sour cream) and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When it’s time to serve, heat the sauce gently on the stove, stir in the sour cream, and add back the chicken. This method keeps your Chicken Paprikash just as delicious, ensuring you enjoy a comforting meal on even the busiest weeknights!

Chicken Paprikash Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for Chicken Paprikash?
For the best results, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. This type of chicken cooks quickly and stays moist, allowing it to absorb the rich, creamy flavors of the sauce beautifully.

How should I store leftover Chicken Paprikash?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the flavor and texture, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. You can add a splash of chicken broth if the sauce thickens too much during reheating.

Can I freeze Chicken Paprikash?
Freezing is not recommended for Chicken Paprikash due to the sour cream content. The dairy may separate and alter the creamy texture when thawed. Instead, consider enjoying the dish fresh for the best experience.

My Chicken Paprikash turned out too thick; what can I do?
If your sauce is thicker than desired, don’t worry! Gradually add more low-sodium chicken broth, about 2 tablespoons at a time, while whisking vigorously to incorporate it. This will help to achieve the desired smooth consistency while maintaining flavor.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, you can consider substituting the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version. However, keep in mind that this may change the flavor slightly. Always check that your broth and spices are free from allergens specific to your guests, such as gluten or certain preservatives.