Looking for a tasty dinner that’s easy to make? Try One-Skillet Chicken Paprikash! This dish is packed with flavor and minimal cleanup. You’ll love the rich sauces and tender chicken that come together effortlessly. In this post, I’ll guide you through the ingredients and steps to make this delicious meal. Get ready to impress your family and enjoy a cozy night in!
Why I Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Convenience: This dish is made in a single skillet, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
- Rich and Flavorful: The combination of sweet and smoked paprika gives this recipe a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible.
- Comfort Food: This chicken paprikash is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or serving it over different types of noodles or dumplings.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs (skin-on)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 8 ounces egg noodles or dumplings (optional, for serving)
For this One-Skillet Chicken Paprikash, we need some key ingredients. The chicken thighs bring rich flavor and juiciness. Olive oil helps sear the chicken and adds healthy fats. Onion and garlic create a great base for flavor. Sweet paprika and smoked paprika give depth to the dish. Ground cumin adds a warm, earthy note. Chicken broth helps build the sauce. Sour cream provides creaminess and tang. Bell pepper adds crunch and color.
Don't forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. Fresh parsley brightens the dish, making it look lovely. You can serve this dish with egg noodles or dumplings, which soak up the delicious sauce. Each ingredient plays a vital role in making this meal rich and comforting.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
To start, I heat olive oil in a large skillet on medium-high. I season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Next, I place them skin-side down in the hot skillet. Searing the chicken for about 5-7 minutes gives it a golden and crispy skin. After that, I flip the chicken and sear the other side for 3-4 minutes. This step locks in juices and flavors. Once done, I remove the chicken and set it aside.
Cooking the Aromatics
In the same skillet, I add the finely chopped onion. I sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent. This step adds sweetness to the dish. Then, I toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. The garlic should smell fragrant but not brown. Timing here is key for maximum flavor.
Building the Sauce
Now it’s time to layer in some spices. I stir in sweet paprika, smoked paprika, and ground cumin. Cooking these spices for 1-2 minutes to toast them enhances their flavors. Next, I gradually pour in the chicken broth while scraping the browned bits from the skillet. This step adds even more depth to the sauce. I add the diced bell pepper for color and crunch.
Simmering the Chicken
I return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. I bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cover the skillet with a lid. Cooking for 25-30 minutes ensures the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). This step makes the chicken tender and flavorful.
Finishing the Sauce
Once the chicken is cooked, I remove it again and set it aside. I stir in the sour cream until it blends well with the sauce. This adds creaminess and tang. I always taste the sauce to adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serving Suggestions
When serving, I arrange the chicken back into the sauce for a warm finish. I often pair this dish with egg noodles or dumplings. To plate, I like to sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top. This adds a touch of color and freshness to the meal.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Chicken Paprikash
- Tips for crispy skin on chicken: Start by patting the chicken dry. This helps the skin get nice and crispy. Use medium-high heat to sear the chicken. Let it cook without moving it for about 5-7 minutes. This helps create a golden crust. Flip it carefully and sear the other side for 3-4 minutes.
- Best practices for sauce consistency: To achieve a creamy sauce, mix the sour cream in at the end. Stir it in gently to avoid curdling. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered to thicken.
Kitchen Equipment Recommendations
- Choosing the right skillet: A large, heavy skillet works best for this recipe. Cast iron or stainless steel skillets hold heat well. This helps sear the chicken nicely and build flavor in the sauce.
- Essential cooking tools: Have a sharp knife for chopping. A wooden spoon is great for stirring. Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken's doneness. Aim for 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking chicken: Keep an eye on the cooking time. Overcooked chicken can become dry. Use a meat thermometer for best results.
- Not properly toasting spices: Toasting spices adds depth to the flavor. Add them right after the onions and garlic. Cook until fragrant, but don’t let them burn. This step is key to a rich sauce.
Pro Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: Bone-in chicken thighs are preferred for this dish as they remain juicy and flavorful during cooking.
- Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of paprika to suit your taste; adding a pinch of cayenne can give it an extra kick!
- Make It Creamy: For a richer sauce, consider adding a dollop of cream cheese along with the sour cream.
- Serve with a Side: Pair the dish with egg noodles or dumplings to soak up the delicious sauce.
Variations
Alternative Ingredients
If you want to switch things up, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs. Chicken breast cooks faster, so check it early. For a vegetarian twist, use tofu or chickpeas. Tofu absorbs flavors well and adds protein. Chickpeas bring a nice texture and are filling.
Flavor Modifications
You can change the spices to create new flavors. Try adding cayenne for heat or thyme for earthiness. Mixing in vegetables like carrots and zucchini can enhance the dish. They add color and nutrition.
Serving Variations
You can serve Chicken Paprikash with different carbs. Egg noodles are traditional, but rice or potatoes work great too. For a fun twist, try serving it over polenta. Also, consider garnishing with lemon zest or a dollop of yogurt. These add brightness and extra flavor.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To keep your One-Skillet Chicken Paprikash fresh, let it cool down first. Place it in an airtight container. It will stay good in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Always check for signs of spoilage before you eat leftovers.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to freeze Chicken Paprikash, first let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. For best quality, reheat it gently.
Reheating Methods
To reheat on the stovetop, place the Chicken Paprikash in a skillet. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Heat over medium until warm. Stir it often to avoid sticking.
For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it loosely with a lid or plastic wrap. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway. Check the temperature before serving to ensure it’s hot throughout.
FAQs
What is Chicken Paprikash?
Chicken Paprikash is a beloved dish from Hungary. It showcases chicken cooked in a rich, spicy paprika sauce. The main flavors come from sweet and smoked paprika, which adds warmth. Often, it includes onions, garlic, and bell peppers. The dish is creamy, thanks to the addition of sour cream, which balances the spices.
Can I make Chicken Paprikash without sour cream?
Yes, you can easily make Chicken Paprikash without sour cream. Try using Greek yogurt or a plant-based cream for a creamy texture. Another option is to use cream cheese, which gives a nice richness. These alternatives maintain the dish's creaminess while adding unique flavors.
How can I make Chicken Paprikash spicier?
If you want more heat, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste. You can also use hot paprika instead of sweet paprika for an extra kick. Adding diced jalapeños or serrano peppers can also bring heat to the dish.
What side dishes go well with Chicken Paprikash?
Chicken Paprikash pairs well with several side dishes. Egg noodles or dumplings are classic choices. Rice or mashed potatoes also work well to soak up the sauce. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables can add freshness to the meal.
How long does it take to cook Chicken Paprikash?
Cooking Chicken Paprikash takes about 55 minutes in total. This includes 15 minutes of prep and around 40 minutes of cooking time. The chicken should simmer until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures it's safe to eat and tender.
Chicken Paprikash is a rich dish that combines flavors from spices and tender chicken. We covered essential ingredients, detailed steps for each cooking stage, and tips to enhance your meal. Remember to season well and avoid overcooking. Feel free to experiment with variations or side dishes. With practice, you can master this dish. Keep it fun in the kitchen, and share your creations with others. Enjoy your cooking journey!
