Creamy Paprika Chicken Delight
This Creamy Paprika Chicken Delight is a simple yet flavorful one-dish meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. Utilizing frozen cubed cooked chicken breasts, the dish comes together in under 30 minutes. The combination of sautéed onions and the warm embrace of paprika, topped with rich fat-free sour cream, creates a luscious sauce that pairs beautifully over rice, pasta, or baked potatoes. It's a lightened-up twist on the classic paprikash that doesn't compromise on taste.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
onion
1 small (chopped)
frozen cubed cooked chicken breasts
18 ounces (2 packages) (thawed)
fat free sour cream
8 ounces (none)
paprika
1 tablespoon (none)
salt
1 teaspoon (none)
Instructions
1
1. Begin by spraying a large nonstick skillet with cooking spray and place it over medium-high heat.
2
2. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for about three minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
3
3. Introduce the thawed chicken to the pan and stir it, cooking until the chicken is heated through, which should take around 5 minutes.
4
4. Reduce the heat to medium and add the fat-free sour cream, paprika, and salt to the skillet. Stir well to combine, ensuring the chicken is well-coated.
5
5. Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 3 minutes, taking care not to allow the mixture to boil.
6
6. Once done, serve the creamy paprika chicken over a bed of rice, pasta, or alongside baked potatoes for a satisfying meal.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Paprika Chicken Delight?
It is a quick, lightened-up version of traditional chicken paprikash made with frozen cooked chicken and fat-free sour cream.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The entire dish comes together in under 30 minutes, with active cooking time of approximately 11 to 15 minutes.
Can I use fresh chicken instead of frozen cooked chicken?
Yes, but you will need to cook the fresh chicken cubes thoroughly in the skillet before adding the sour cream and spices.
What type of onion should I use?
A small yellow or white onion, finely chopped, is ideal for this recipe.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The main ingredients are gluten-free, but you must ensure your sour cream brand is certified and serve it over rice or potatoes instead of pasta.
Can I use regular sour cream instead of fat-free?
Yes, regular or low-fat sour cream can be used for a richer, creamier texture if preferred.
What are the best side dishes for this chicken?
This dish pairs perfectly with a bed of rice, egg noodles, pasta, or even a plain baked potato.
Can I substitute the paprika?
While paprika is the primary flavor, you could use smoked paprika for a deeper flavor or a dash of cayenne for heat.
How do I store leftover Creamy Paprika Chicken?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this recipe for later?
Freezing is not recommended because the fat-free sour cream base may separate and become grainy when thawed and reheated.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, plain Greek yogurt is a great substitute, but add it at the very end on low heat to prevent it from curdling.
How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Keep the heat at medium and ensure the mixture does not reach a boiling point once the sour cream is added.
Is this dish spicy?
No, standard paprika provides a mild, sweet, and warm flavor rather than heat.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely; sliced bell peppers or mushrooms would be excellent additions to sauté along with the onion.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
While you can cook the chicken in a slow cooker, the sour cream should only be added at the end to maintain the sauce's integrity.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, cooked cubed chicken thighs work well and provide a slightly juicier texture.
How should I thaw the frozen chicken?
Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave before starting the recipe.
Can I use smoked paprika?
Yes, smoked paprika will add a wonderful smoky depth that complements the creamy sauce well.
Is this a healthy meal option?
Yes, by using fat-free sour cream and lean chicken breast, it is a high-protein, lower-fat alternative to traditional cream sauces.
What equipment is needed?
You only need a large nonstick skillet with a lid and a stirring utensil.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and ensure you use a large enough skillet to prevent overcrowding.
How much salt is included in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of salt, though you can adjust this to your personal taste.
Can I make this dairy-free?
You can use a plant-based sour cream or unsweetened coconut cream as a dairy-free alternative.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I add garlic to this recipe?
Yes, adding 1-2 cloves of minced garlic with the onions will enhance the savory flavor profile.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, because it is so fast to make and holds up well for a few days in the fridge, it is great for weekday lunches.
What happens if I accidentally let the sauce boil?
The sour cream may 'break' or separate into curds and liquid. It is still safe to eat, but the texture will be less smooth.
Can I use other spices besides paprika?
While paprika is the star, you can add dried parsley, dill, or even a little onion powder for extra complexity.
Is cooking spray necessary?
Using cooking spray helps keep the meal low-fat, but you can use a teaspoon of olive oil or butter if preferred.