This Chicken Paprikash-Inspired Skillet is a cozy, comforting dish full of warm paprika flavor, tender chicken, and a creamy sauce that begs to be spooned over noodles, rice, or dumplings. Inspired by the classic Hungarian favorite, this simplified skillet version is perfect for weeknight dinners while still delivering deep, slow-cooked flavor. It’s hearty, soul-warming, and exactly what cold winter evenings call for.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Made in one skillet
- Rich, creamy, and full of comforting paprika flavor
- Simple ingredients, big payoff
- Perfect for cold, wet winter days
- Great leftovers — the flavor gets even better
Ingredients
- 1½ lb. boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp sweet paprika (Hungarian-style if possible)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional but lovely)
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ¾ cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the chicken:
Heat oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and brown on both sides until golden (it does not need to be fully cooked yet). Remove and set aside. - Sauté the aromatics:
In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook until soft and lightly golden, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds. - Add paprika:
Lower heat slightly and stir in sweet paprika, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook briefly (about 30 seconds) to bloom the spices — do not let them burn. - Simmer:
Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Return chicken to the skillet, cover, and simmer gently for 15–20 minutes, until chicken is tender and cooked through. - Make it creamy:
In a small bowl, mix sour cream with flour (if using). Stir a spoonful of hot sauce into the sour cream to temper it, then gently stir the mixture into the skillet. Simmer uncovered for a few minutes until the sauce thickens. - Finish & serve:
Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
- Egg noodles or gnocchi
- Rice or potatoes
- Spaetzle or buttered dumplings
- Crusty bread to soak up the sauce
Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave
- Add a splash of broth if the sauce thickens too much
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Enjoy!
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