This Creamy Paprika Chicken is a rich, comforting dinner that’s perfect for any night of the week. Juicy, tender chicken thighs are seasoned with smoky paprika, then simmered in a luscious garlic cream sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Ready in just 30 minutes, this easy one-skillet meal pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or crusty bread for soaking up every last drop of the creamy sauce.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Transfer the onion and garlic to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Brown the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with the smoked paprika, sweet paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Return the skillet to medium-high heat and add the chicken. Cook for 5–7 minutes per side, or until beautifully golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and return the cooked onion and garlic to the skillet.

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard, if using, and let the sauce simmer gently for 3–5 minutes, or until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Finish the Dish

Return the chicken thighs to the skillet and spoon the creamy paprika sauce over the top. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the chicken to warm through and absorb the rich flavors.

Step 5: Serve

Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, steamed rice, or roasted vegetables.