One-Skillet Chicken Paprikash Comforting Family Meal

Looking for a quick and tasty meal your whole family will love? You’re in the right place! One-skillet Chicken Paprikash is a dish that brings comfort and flavor in every bite. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll impress everyone at the dinner table. Join me as we explore this heartwarming recipe that proves a delicious meal doesn’t have to be complicated! Let’s dive into the details.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for One-Skillet Chicken Paprikash

You need the following items to make this dish:

- 4 bone-in chicken thighs (with skin)

- 1 tablespoon olive oil

- 1 medium onion, finely chopped

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 tablespoons sweet paprika

- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)

- 1 cup sour cream (preferably full-fat for creaminess)

- 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)

Recommended Cooking Oils

I suggest using olive oil for this recipe. It adds great flavor and helps the chicken brown nicely. If you want to switch it up, you can use canola or vegetable oil. Both work well in high heat.

Suggested Garnishes and Accompaniments

For a fresh touch, use chopped parsley as a garnish. It brightens the dish and adds color. You can also serve it with egg noodles or dumplings for a filling meal. They soak up the sauce and make every bite delicious.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken and Searing

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil heats, season 4 bone-in chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Once the oil shimmers, carefully place the chicken skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip the chicken and sear the other side for 3-4 minutes. When both sides are browned, take the chicken out and set it on a plate.

Sautéing Aromatics and Adding Spices

In the same skillet, keep the tasty drippings. Add 1 finely chopped medium onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes. The onion should become soft and clear. Then, add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1 more minute. This step brings out rich flavors that will make your dish shine. Next, sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of sweet paprika, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and 1 teaspoon of ground cumin. Stir the spices for 1-2 minutes to toast them and enhance their taste.

Simmering and Creating the Creamy Sauce

Slowly pour in 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the skillet. This helps lift the brown bits that add so much flavor. Toss in 1 diced bell pepper and mix everything well. Now, return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Cover the skillet and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 25-30 minutes until the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). After the chicken cooks, take it out again. Stir in 1 cup of full-fat sour cream until it’s well blended. Adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. Finally, place the chicken back in the sauce to warm through for 2-3 minutes.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Sear on Chicken

To get a great sear on chicken, start with dry skin. Pat the chicken thighs with a paper towel. This helps the skin get crispy. Heat the olive oil on medium-high heat. Add the chicken skin-side down. Let it cook without moving it for about 5-7 minutes. This allows the skin to brown nicely. Flip the chicken and sear the other side for 3-4 minutes. This step adds flavor and texture to your dish.

Substitutions for Ingredients

You can easily swap ingredients to suit your taste. If you don't have bone-in thighs, use boneless ones; just adjust cooking time. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. If you want a twist, try smoked paprika instead of sweet. You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option. Don't have a bell pepper? A zucchini or carrot can work well too.

Flavor Enhancements and Seasoning Adjustments

To boost flavor, add a splash of white wine when sautéing onions. This adds depth to the sauce. You can mix in fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for more aroma. If you enjoy heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Remember to taste the sauce before serving. Adjust salt and pepper as needed. These small tweaks can take your chicken paprikash to the next level!

Variations

Vegetarian and Vegan Alternatives

You can make a vegetarian version of Chicken Paprikash by using plant-based meat or tofu. Both options absorb the flavors well. Instead of chicken broth, use vegetable broth for a rich taste. Choose full-fat coconut milk to get that creamy texture. Add more veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, and carrots to enhance the dish. These will add flavor and color.

Gluten-Free Options

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles or simply skip the pasta. Ensure your broth is labeled gluten-free. Most spices are safe, but always check labels for hidden gluten. This way, you can enjoy this dish without worry.

Customizing Heat and Spice Levels

If you like spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. For a milder taste, stick to sweet paprika. You can also use smoked paprika for a deeper flavor without the heat. Adjust the spices to suit your family’s taste buds. Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors!

Storage Information

How to Store Leftovers Properly

To store your One-Skillet Chicken Paprikash, let it cool first. Use an airtight container. Place the chicken and sauce together. You can keep it in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Be sure to label the container with the date. This helps you know when to use it.

Reheating Instructions

When you want to eat the leftovers, reheat them gently. You can use the stove or microwave. If using the stove, place the chicken and sauce in a saucepan. Heat over low to medium heat until warm. Stir often to avoid sticking. For the microwave, cover the dish with a lid or wrap. Heat in 30-second bursts until warm. Always check that the chicken is heated through.

Freezing and Thawing Tips

If you want to freeze Chicken Paprikash, use a freezer-safe container. It stays good for about 3 months. When you're ready to eat, take it out of the freezer. Thaw it in the fridge overnight. You can also use the microwave on the defrost setting. After thawing, reheat as mentioned above. This dish still tastes great after freezing!

FAQs

Can I make One-Skillet Chicken Paprikash ahead of time?

Yes, you can make One-Skillet Chicken Paprikash ahead of time. This dish tastes great even after resting. Simply cook the chicken and sauce as instructed. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. When you are ready to serve, just reheat it on the stove. Add a splash of chicken broth if it seems too thick.

What can I serve with Chicken Paprikash?

Chicken Paprikash pairs well with several sides. Here are a few tasty options:

- Egg noodles

- Dumplings

- Rice

- Crusty bread

- Mashed potatoes

These sides soak up the rich sauce and enhance the meal. You can also add a simple green salad for some crunch.

How spicy is Chicken Paprikash?

One-Skillet Chicken Paprikash is not very spicy. The dish mainly uses sweet and smoked paprika, which gives it a warm flavor. If you like more heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. Adjust the spice levels to your taste.

This blog post covered how to make One-Skillet Chicken Paprikash. You learned about the main ingredients, cooking steps, and key tips. We also explored variations for different diets and provided storage tips.

Now, you can confidently create this delicious meal at home. Try new flavors, customize to your taste, and enjoy with friends or family. Making this dish can be fun and rewarding. Happy cooking!