If you are on the lookout for a comforting, savory meal that comes together quickly and bursts with flavor, then this Paprika Chicken Skillet Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender, juicy chicken thighs coated in a perfectly spiced blend of smoked and sweet paprika, simmered in a luscious creamy sauce that’s seasoned with garlic, onion, and a touch of Dijon mustard. This dish offers a delightful balance of smoky, tangy, and rich flavors that will have you coming back for seconds and impress guests without any fuss in the kitchen. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that feels special every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Paprika Chicken Skillet Recipe plays a starring role, from the paprika that gives it that smoky warmth to the heavy cream which adds the silky texture that ties everything together. Let’s walk through these simple essentials that turn basic pantry staples into something magical.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and tender, they cook quickly and soak up seasoning beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For a golden sear that locks in moisture and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings a deep, smoky essence that’s essential for that signature flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika: Adds a gentle, slightly sweet warmth to balance the smokiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle, savory depth without overpowering the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the base flavors and rounds out the seasoning.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple but crucial for flavor balance and seasoning.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Builds the sauce’s savory foundation and helps deglaze the pan.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Rich and velvety, it transforms the broth into a luscious sauce.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick that lifts the creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional): Perfect for thickening the sauce if you prefer a richer, heavier coating.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: A fresh, bright garnish to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make Paprika Chicken Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken thighs dry; this helps them sear to a beautiful golden crust. Then, generously season both sides with smoked paprika, sweet paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This layer of spice is what brings the depth and warmth that define the dish’s character.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the seasoned chicken and let it cook undisturbed for about 4 to 5 minutes per side. This step is crucial for locking in juicy flavors and achieving that mouthwatering golden color. Once the chicken is mostly cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Turn the heat down to medium and pour in the chicken broth, scraping up all those delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan — they carry incredible flavor. Next, stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard, letting it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes as the sauce starts to thicken and develop.
Step 4: Optional Thickening
If you prefer a creamier sauce with extra body, whisk in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another minute until your sauce coats the back of a spoon. This step is completely optional but highly recommended if you want a more decadent finish.
Step 5: Finish Cooking the Chicken in the Sauce
Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them in the creamy sauce. Let everything simmer together for 5 to 6 more minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened slightly. This final simmer ensures every bite of chicken is juicy and coated with rich flavor.
How to Serve Paprika Chicken Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley isn’t just about looks — it adds a vivid pop of color and a subtle fresh herbaceous note that cuts through the richness of the sauce, making every bite balanced and bright.
Side Dishes
This Paprika Chicken Skillet Recipe shines served over fluffy mashed potatoes, buttery rice, or even your favorite pasta, all of which soak up that luscious sauce so beautifully. For a lighter plate, consider steamed vegetables or roasted Brussels sprouts on the side to add texture and nutrition.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this skillet chicken on a bed of creamy polenta or alongside a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to contrast the richness. You can also plate individual servings in deep bowls topped with the sauce and garnish for an elegant yet homey presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken is submerged in the sauce to keep it tender and moist as it rests in the fridge.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to prepare ahead. Place chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Gently warm your leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream sauce from separating. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream while reheating will help restore the sauce’s smooth consistency.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Just be mindful that chicken breasts may cook faster and can dry out if overcooked, so keep a close eye on them while searing and simmering to maintain juiciness.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a dairy-free creamer to keep the sauce creamy while making it suitable for those with dairy restrictions.
How important is the smoked paprika?
Smoked paprika is key to creating the signature smoky flavor of this recipe, but if you don’t have it on hand, you can use extra sweet paprika and a splash of smoked chili powder or chipotle for a similar effect.
Can I add vegetables to the skillet?
Definitely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can be added after searing the chicken, allowing them to cook in the sauce for a heartier, more colorful meal.
What if I don’t have cornstarch for thickening?
Flour or arrowroot powder can be used as alternatives; just mix with water to create a slurry before adding to the sauce to help it thicken nicely.
Final Thoughts
This Paprika Chicken Skillet Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—effortless to make but packed with comforting, bold flavors. Whether you’re cooking for your family or treating yourself after a long day, this recipe never fails to satisfy. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll have a new go-to weeknight dinner that’s as cozy as it is delicious!
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Paprika Chicken Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Paprika Chicken Skillet is a flavorful and creamy dish featuring tender boneless, skinless chicken thighs seasoned with smoked and sweet paprika, garlic, and onion powder. The chicken is seared to a golden brown and then simmered in a luscious sauce made from chicken broth, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard. This quick and easy stovetop recipe is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner and pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta to soak up the rich sauce.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with smoked paprika, sweet paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to infuse them with vibrant flavors.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and mostly cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- Prepare the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Pour chicken broth into the skillet, scraping the bottom to release any browned bits for added flavor. Stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard until the sauce is well combined and starts to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, slowly stir in the cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce and cook for an additional minute until the sauce thickens to your liking.
- Finish Cooking the Chicken: Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 5 to 6 minutes, ensuring it is cooked through and the sauce is slightly thickened.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the chicken for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot, ideally over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta to enjoy the creamy sauce.
Notes
- Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- Make sure to dry the chicken thoroughly before seasoning to ensure a good sear.
- Adjust the amount of paprika to suit your taste preferences.
