The moment I turned the stove on, the delightful scent of garlic mingled with smoky paprika began to dance through my kitchen, transforming the atmosphere into something truly inviting. This Creamy Paprika Chicken with Spinach is not just a meal; it’s the perfect antidote for those who’ve grown weary of the same old takeout routine. Picture juicy chicken breasts, expertly seared until golden brown, swirling around in a luscious, velvety sauce that envelops each bite. And let’s not forget the pop of fresh spinach, adding both color and nutrition.
With this one-pan wonder, you’ll find comfort in every mouthful, making it a culinary delight that’s as easy to whip up as it is delicious to savor. Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a cozy evening in, this dish promises satisfaction without the fuss, ensuring you’ll want to make it again and again. So, if you’ve been searching for an effortless, flavorful way to treat yourself and your loved ones, look no further!
Why is Creamy Paprika Chicken a must-try?
Deliciously creamy: This dish features a rich, velvety sauce that makes every bite feel indulgent while keeping meal prep simple.
One-pan magic: With everything cooked in one pan, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you more time to enjoy your meal and less time scrubbing dishes.
Nutrient-packed: The addition of fresh spinach not only enhances the flavor but also adds vibrant color and essential vitamins.
Versatile options: Customize this recipe easily by incorporating your favorite veggies or swapping the chicken for tofu, catering to diverse dietary needs.
Perfect for gatherings: Impress your friends and family with a comforting dish that looks as good as it tastes, making it an instant favorite at any dinner table.
Creamy Paprika Chicken Ingredients
• Discover the essential components for your flavorful dish.
For the Chicken
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The star of the show; opt for high-quality pieces for the best texture.
- Smoked paprika – Infuses the dish with a warm, smoky flavor; consider sweet paprika for less heat.
For the Sauce
- Unsalted butter – Crucial for searing the chicken and forming a rich sauce base; essential for that creamy mouthfeel.
- Minced garlic (4 cloves) – Adds aromatic depth; fresh is preferred, but pre-minced saves time.
- Sifted flour – Thickens the sauce beautifully; gluten-free alternatives are available for those with sensitivities.
- Dry white wine (½ cup) – Brings acidity and complexity; substitute with extra chicken broth if needed.
- Sodium-free chicken broth (½ cup) – Enhances flavor and moistness; vegetable broth works for a vegetarian version.
- Heavy cream (½ cup) – Creates a luxurious, creamy texture; use half-and-half for a lighter option.
- Fresh lemon juice – Brightens flavors; fresh juice is ideal, but bottled can work in a hurry.
- Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste preference.
For the Veggies
- Fresh spinach (2 cups) – Adds color and nutrition; stir in last to keep it vibrant.
This Creamy Paprika Chicken recipe is not just about the steps but also about how these ingredients come together to create a memorable, satisfying meal. Enjoy!
How to Make Creamy Paprika Chicken
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Season the Chicken: Begin by seasoning both sides of the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This step infuses the meat with flavor, ensuring each bite is delicious.
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Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat, then melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until it’s golden brown. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
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Sauté the Garlic: Lower the heat to medium-low, add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet, and sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. This will create a lovely aromatic base for your sauce.
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Make the Roux: Sprinkle the sifted flour into the skillet, stirring continuously to form a roux. This step will help thicken your sauce for that creamy texture.
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Add the Wine: Gradually pour in the dry white wine while scraping the skillet to deglaze. Let it reduce for 2-3 minutes—this adds depth and acidity to your sauce.
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Incorporate Broth and Cream: Stir in the sodium-free chicken broth and heavy cream, mixing until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened—around 3-4 minutes.
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Return the Chicken: Place the seared chicken back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Simmer gently on low for 5-7 minutes to ensure the chicken is cooked through and absorbs the flavors.
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Add Spinach: Lastly, stir in the fresh spinach and cook for just 2 minutes until wilted, keeping its vibrant green color.
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Finish and Serve: Splash in some fresh lemon juice and add a sprinkle of paprika before serving. This final touch elevates the dish beautifully!
Optional: Serve over rice or with crusty bread for a wholesome meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Helpful Tricks for Creamy Paprika Chicken
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and quality chicken breasts make a significant difference in flavor. While pre-minced varieties are convenient, fresh brings the best taste.
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Adjusting Sauce Consistency: Keep extra chicken broth and cream on hand. If the sauce becomes too thick, simply stir in a splash to achieve your desired creaminess.
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Cook Chicken Thoroughly: Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. This guarantees that it’s safe to eat while remaining juicy and tender.
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Vibrant Spinach: Add the fresh spinach last to keep its vibrant green color and nutritional value intact. Overcooking can dull its lively hue.
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Serve with Sides: Pair your Creamy Paprika Chicken with crusty bread, rice, or quinoa for a heartier meal that satisfies the whole family.
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Leftover Love: Store any leftovers in airtight containers. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain the integrity of the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite tastes just as good as the first.
What to Serve with Creamy Paprika Chicken?
Dive into the delightful world of complementary flavors and textures that elevate your one-pan dinner to a complete meal.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up that luscious sauce, fresh bread adds a satisfying crunch while enhancing the overall comfort vibe. Serve warm for the ultimate indulgence.
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Fluffy Rice: Steam some jasmine or basmati rice to complement the creaminess of the dish. Its subtle nuttiness pairs beautifully with the smoky paprika.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes provide a familiar foundation that balances the flavors wonderfully. Add a sprinkle of paprika on top for an elegant finish.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of bell peppers, carrots, and Brussels sprouts adds a vibrant color to your plate. Their slight char can contrast the silkiness of the sauce.
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Simple Green Salad: Toss together fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette for a light and refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the chicken.
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White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc not only enhances the dish’s flavors but also creates a beautifully cohesive dining experience. Its acidity complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
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Lemon Sorbet: As a light dessert, this refreshing sorbet cleanses the palate after your savory meal, leaving you with a bright reminder of the lemon zest in your chicken.
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Herb Couscous: Fluffy and light, couscous tossed with fresh herbs can soak up the sauce too, offering a unique twist to accompany your delightful main dish.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Paprika Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover creamy paprika chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the dish to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. To prevent freezer burn, wrap tightly or use a vacuum sealer if available.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain that creamy consistency. This ensures your dish remains as delicious as the day it was made.
Thawing: If frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. This method preserves the flavor and texture of your creamy paprika chicken while making it easy to enjoy at a moment’s notice.
Creamy Paprika Chicken Variations
Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine by customizing this recipe to suit your tastes!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a rich, dairy-free option that adds a subtle sweetness.
- Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers or zucchini to the skillet alongside the spinach for an added burst of flavor and nutrition. These colorful additions create a delightful medley that will brighten any plate.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a zesty kick that will make your taste buds dance. The heat balances beautifully with the creamy sauce!
- Herb Upgrade: Swap smoked paprika with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to create a garden-fresh flavor profile that’s perfect for springtime meals. This will infuse a whole new dimension into each bite.
- Pasta Lover’s Dream: Serve the creamy sauce over cooked pasta for a comforting twist on this dish—perfect for any pasta lover dreaming of indulgent flavors. The pasta absorbs the sauce, creating an irresistible experience!
- One-Pan Wonder: For a complete meal in one go, toss in some baby potatoes alongside your chicken while it cooks—this way, everything is ready at once and packed with nutrients.
- Lemon Burst: Enhance the brightness by adding a splash of lemon zest along with the juice, which will elevate the dish’s refreshing qualities. A little extra zing goes a long way!
- Protein Swap: Use shrimp or firm tofu instead of chicken for a quick protein adjustment without losing any deliciousness. Each alternative brings its unique character, making the dish even more versatile!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Paprika Chicken preparations are ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and sear the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, keeping the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, prepare the creamy sauce (minus the spinach and lemon juice) and store it separately for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce in a skillet, add the spinach to wilt, and return the chicken to the pan to warm through. This approach ensures you enjoy a delicious, restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort and time spent in the kitchen!
Creamy Paprika Chicken Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting chicken breasts?
Choose high-quality boneless, skinless chicken breasts with a firm texture and no dark spots. Fresh chicken should feel slightly moist but not sticky. Always select products that are within their sell-by date to ensure the best flavor and texture.
How should I store leftover Creamy Paprika Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s important to let the dish cool to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain its freshness. Make sure to reheat gently to preserve the creamy sauce’s texture.
Can I freeze Creamy Paprika Chicken?
Absolutely! For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly and use a vacuum sealer for best results. This dish can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and gently warm on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to retain creaminess.
What if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce thickens more than you’d like, don’t worry! Simply stir in a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream gradually while heating gently. This will help to adjust the consistency back to that luscious, creamy feel without sacrificing flavor.
Is Creamy Paprika Chicken suitable for dietary restrictions?
Yes! You can make this dish gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour alternative. If you’re looking for a lighter version, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream. To accommodate vegetarian diets, replace the chicken with firm tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
The more the merrier! Feel free to experiment by adding your favorite veggies such as mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to adjust cooking times so that all ingredients are cooked evenly.
Creamy Paprika Chicken: Your New Favorite One-Pan Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season both sides of the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat, then melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Lower the heat to medium-low, add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet, and sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the sifted flour into the skillet, stirring continuously to form a roux.
- Gradually pour in the dry white wine while scraping the skillet to deglaze. Let it reduce for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the sodium-free chicken broth and heavy cream, mixing until smooth and slightly thickened—around 3-4 minutes.
- Place the seared chicken back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Simmer on low for 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for just 2 minutes until wilted.
- Splash in fresh lemon juice and add a sprinkle of paprika before serving.