Name: Creamy Chicken Paprika Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¼ cup all-purpose flour; ¼ cup cornstarch; 1 teaspoon garlic powder (plus more if desired); 1 teaspoon onion powder (plus more if desired); 2 teaspoons paprika (smoked paprika may be substituted); 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste); 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste); ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional and to taste); 1/8 to ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional and to taste); 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 large yellow onion (sliced into thin rings; sweet Vidalia onion may be substituted); 1½ cups low-sodium chicken broth; ½ cup heavy cream (can add up to 1 cup total, if more sauce is desired); Fresh parsley (finely minced for garnishing; optional to taste; or your favorite fresh herbs)

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 7 reviews

If you are on the hunt for a dish that oozes comfort, warmth, and a little bit of elegance all at once, the Creamy Chicken Paprika Recipe is your new best friend. This flavorful recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a luscious, paprika-infused cream sauce that is both rich and cozy. The blend of spices gives it a gentle smoky depth while the caramelized onions add sweetness and texture. It’s a simple weeknight meal that tastes like you spent all afternoon cooking, guaranteed to please family and guests alike with its beautiful balance of savory and creamy. Let me walk you through this delightful dish that deserves a spot in your culinary rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Inside a silver frying pan, there are four raw chicken pieces covered in a light layer of white flour. The chicken pieces show a pale pink color beneath the flour, with some areas where the flour coating looks thin. The pan holds a small amount of yellow cooking oil around the chicken. Near the frying pan, a white bowl contains more flour and a silver spoon rests inside it. The whole setup is on a white marbled surface with some green herbs and an orange utensil partially visible in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Creamy Chicken Paprika Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients, each adding its own charm—from the warmth of paprika to the silky smoothness of heavy cream. Every component plays a vital role in crafting the perfect harmony of flavors and textures.

¼ cup all-purpose flour: The base for coating chicken and thickening the sauce, ensuring a velvety texture.
¼ cup cornstarch: Adds crispiness to the chicken coating and helps create a smooth sauce.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle garlic flavor that complements the paprika without overpowering.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory notes and deepens the overall taste.
2 teaspoons paprika: The star spice that provides smoky, earthy, and slightly sweet undertones.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Vital for bringing all the flavors together effectively.
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a gentle bite and aromatic warmth.
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a whisper of heat without overwhelming the dish.
1/8 to ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Adds a delicate kick for adventurous palates.
2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts: The tender protein that absorbs all the delicious flavors.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides the perfect searing base for the chicken with a fruity aroma.
3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Enriches the sauce and helps caramelize the onions beautifully.
1 large yellow onion: Thinly sliced rings add sweetness and complexity when caramelized.
1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth: Builds the sauce and adds moisture and depth without overpowering.
½ cup heavy cream: The final touch that creates that signature creamy texture and taste.
Fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle of brightness and color for garnishing.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Paprika Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Flour Mixture

Start by combining the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and the optional red pepper flakes and cayenne pepper in a large bowl. Mix gently until fully blended. Reserve 3 tablespoons of this seasoned flour blend separately—you’ll use this later to thicken the sauce. This seasoning mix is your flavor foundation, so be sure to mix well to distribute all the spices evenly.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Next, dredge the chicken breasts in the flour mixture, making sure every inch is coated thoroughly. This coating is essential because it locks in moisture during cooking and creates a wonderful crust that will soak up the creamy sauce later. Don’t rush this step—it makes a big difference!

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping once halfway through. You’re aiming for a nice golden crust and an internal temperature of 160°F. The chicken will rest and finish cooking gently in the sauce later, so don’t overcook it now. Once done, remove the chicken and keep it warm on a plate.

Step 4: Caramelize the Onions

Without wiping the skillet, drop in the butter and let it melt. Add the thinly sliced onions and reduce the heat to low or medium-low. Patience is key here—stir the onions frequently for about 20 minutes until they’re luscious, soft, and beautifully caramelized. This step adds a sweet, rich dimension that balances the smokiness of the paprika perfectly. If you aren’t an onion fan, feel free to skip this but do melt the butter on its own before moving on.

Step 5: Make the Roux

Sprinkle the reserved 3 tablespoons of flour mixture into the skillet with the caramelized onions and melted butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring or whisking continuously for about 1 minute. This short cook time eliminates the raw flour taste and kickstarts the thickening process for your sauce. It’s a small step with a big payoff!

Step 6: Add the Chicken Broth

Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking constantly. This gradual addition helps to avoid lumps and creates a smooth, rich base for the sauce. Continue whisking for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens noticeably.

Step 7: Stir in the Cream

Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and whisk it in thoroughly. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. If you prefer more sauce, you can add up to an additional ½ cup of cream to make it extra indulgent. This is where the sauce becomes wonderfully silky and luscious.

Step 8: Adjust the Seasoning

Give the sauce a careful taste test and adjust with more salt, pepper, paprika, or red pepper flakes if needed. The key here is balance—the sauce should have a subtle smoky warmth with a hint of heat but never be overpowering. It’s fine-tuning these details that take this Creamy Chicken Paprika Recipe from good to unforgettable.

Step 9: Combine and Serve

Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and gently toss them around in the creamy sauce. Coat them well, flip a few times, and then cover the chicken with those golden caramelized onions. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired. This final mingle of flavors makes every bite a dream.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Paprika Recipe

A shiny silver pan filled with six golden brown fried pieces of chicken sitting in a thick, creamy orange sauce with visible cooked onion slices mixed in. Small green parsley leaves are sprinkled on top of the chicken and sauce, adding a fresh touch. The pan rests on a white marbled surface. Nearby, a small white bowl holds bright red crushed chili flakes, and a whole yellow onion is partially visible at the bottom of the frame. In the top left corner, there is a white plate with a brown rim and some silver forks on a gray cloth. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of finely minced fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a mild herbaceous touch that brightens the rich, creamy sauce. You could also try chives or tarragon if you want a subtle twist. The vibrant green contrast visually elevates the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with buttery mashed potatoes that soak up the luscious sauce like a dream. For something lighter, serve it alongside steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad. Egg noodles or rice also make perfect companions—they help balance the richness while adding bulk to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, slice the chicken breasts crosswise into medallions and arrange them fan-like on a platter with sauce drizzled artistically over the top. You could also serve the creamy chicken paprika over a bed of sautéed spinach or roasted vegetables for an upgraded, restaurant-style experience that will impress anyone at your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Creamy Chicken Paprika Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools; simply stir in a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating to restore its silky consistency.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, but keep in mind the texture of cream can slightly change after freezing. Place the cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove to preserve the flavors.

Reheating

Reheat gently over low to medium heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and separate any creaminess that may have thickened too much. Adding a little broth or cream while reheating will bring the sauce back to its luscious, dreamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use smoked paprika in this Creamy Chicken Paprika Recipe?

Absolutely! Smoked paprika adds an extra layer of smoky flavor that complements the creaminess beautifully. Start with the same amount and adjust to your taste.

Is it okay to use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully here. They have more fat which adds richness, but be sure to adjust cooking time slightly as thighs may take longer to cook through.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative. Keep in mind this will slightly change the flavor but maintain the creamy texture.

How spicy is the dish? Can I omit the cayenne and red pepper flakes?

The heat level is mild and adjustable. If you prefer no spice, feel free to omit cayenne and red pepper flakes entirely. The paprika will still provide plenty of flavor without the heat.

What’s the best way to thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

If your sauce isn’t thick enough after cooking, whisk a little additional reserved flour mixture with a bit of water and stir it in over medium heat until it thickens. Just be sure to cook it long enough so there’s no raw taste.

Final Thoughts

Making the Creamy Chicken Paprika Recipe at home is like giving yourself a warm culinary hug. From the golden, tender chicken to that silky, paprika-spiced cream sauce, every forkful is a celebration of comfort food done right. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s straightforward yet impressively delicious and sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. You’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!