One Pan Paprika Chicken
One Pan Paprika Chicken is a bold, comforting dinner that delivers rich flavor with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or 4 large boneless thighs/breasts)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¾ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup heavy cream (optional, for creamy sauce)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Season chicken with smoked paprika, sweet paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken skin-side down for 5–7 minutes until golden and crispy. Flip and cook another 3–4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté onion and bell pepper for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Return chicken to the skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer 15–20 minutes until chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
- Stir in heavy cream (if using) and simmer 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra smokiness, use only smoked paprika.
One Pan Paprika Chicken is a bold, comforting dinner that delivers rich flavor with minimal cleanup. Juicy chicken thighs are seasoned generously with smoky paprika, garlic, and herbs, then seared to golden perfection before simmering in a savory, lightly creamy sauce. As everything cooks together in one skillet, the chicken absorbs the warm spice blend while creating a flavorful base that pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread. Sweet onions and bell peppers add depth and balance to the smoky notes, while a splash of broth keeps the dish tender and juicy. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights but impressive enough for guests. With simple pantry spices and fresh ingredients, it transforms everyday chicken into a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal full of warmth and color in every bite.
