Slow Cooker Chicken Paprika – Crock Pot

Slow Cooker Chicken Paprika – This easy crock pot chicken paprika is a cozy, comforting dinner that’s packed with flavor combines tender, juicy chicken with the warm, smoky flavor of paprika, all simmered together for busy weeknights.

What is Chicken Paprika?

Chicken paprika, also known as “paprikás csirke” in Hungary, is a traditional Hungarian dish made with chicken, paprika, onions, and sometimes a rich sour cream sauce. The use of paprika, a ground spice made from dried peppers, is what gives this dish its distinctive flavor and vibrant red color. Paprika comes in many varieties, from sweet to hot, and the type you choose will significantly influence the dish’s flavor profile.

In this slow cooker version, we take the traditional elements of this classic dish and adapt them to a modern, fuss-free cooking method. By using the slow cooker, the chicken becomes incredibly tender, while the sauce develops deep, rich flavors that are hard to achieve with faster cooking methods.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal Prep: Just chop a few ingredients and let your slow cooker do the work.
• Hands-Off Cooking: Perfect for busy schedules—prepare it in the morning, and come home to a fully cooked meal.
• Deliciously Tender Chicken: The slow cooking process ensures that the chicken is incredibly tender and infused with the flavors of the paprika sauce.
• Versatile: You can serve it over noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is mild in spice but big on flavor, making it perfect for all ages.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Chicken Paprika

• Paprika Types Matter: Hungarian sweet paprika is the star of the show here, but you can experiment with smoked or hot paprika for a different flavor twist. For a smoky, bold flavor, mix in a bit of smoked paprika with the sweet.
• Searing for Flavor: Browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker isn’t essential, but it adds an extra layer of flavor. If you’re in a rush, you can skip this step, but if you have the time, it’s worth it.
• Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. You can also mix in a slurry of cornstarch and water for a creamier, thicker sauce.

Variations of Slow Cooker Chicken Paprika

• Chicken Breasts: If you prefer leaner meat, you can swap chicken thighs for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just be careful not to overcook them, as breasts tend to dry out faster.
• Vegetable Additions: Add mushrooms, carrots, or potatoes to bulk up the meal. These vegetables can cook alongside the chicken, absorbing the paprika sauce for extra flavor.
• Spicy Chicken Paprika: For those who like it hot, increase the amount of hot paprika or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
• Dairy-Free: If you’re dairy-free, swap out the sour cream for a coconut-based yogurt or leave it out altogether for a lighter, broth-based sauce.

How to Serve Chicken Paprika

One of the beauties of crockpot chicken paprika is its versatility when it comes to serving. Here are some great pairing options:

• Over Egg Noodles: This is the most traditional way to serve chicken paprika. The creamy sauce coats the noodles perfectly.
• With Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice soaks up the rich sauce, making it a satisfying meal.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes add a comforting touch and absorb all the delicious paprika sauce.
• Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storage:

• In the Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• In the Freezer: You can also freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. To avoid freezer burn, squeeze out as much air as possible.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Reheat the chicken on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up.
• Microwave: You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave. Just heat in 1-minute increments, stirring occasionally.

Slow Cooker Chicken Paprika – Recipe FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts are a leaner option, but be sure to check them a bit earlier to avoid drying out. You may want to reduce the cooking time by 30-45 minutes if using chicken breasts.

Can I make this dish without a slow cooker?

Yes! You can make chicken paprika on the stovetop in a large pot or Dutch oven. Follow the same steps, but simmer everything on low heat for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until the chicken is tender.

What type of paprika should I use?

Hungarian sweet paprika is ideal for this dish, but you can also use smoked paprika for a richer, deeper flavor. If you prefer a bit of heat, mix in some hot paprika or cayenne pepper.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, slow cooker chicken paprika is great for meal prep. It stores well and even tastes better the next day after the flavors have had more time to meld.

Is there a substitute for sour cream?

You can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option or, if you’re dairy-free, opt for a plant-based yogurt or coconut cream.

Final Thoughts

Slow cooker chicken paprika is a delicious, hearty dish that is perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or just looking for a comforting, flavorful dish, this recipe has you covered. Plus, with its minimal prep and hands-off cooking, it’s a fantastic choice for busy days when you still want a home-cooked meal.

So go ahead, grab your slow cooker, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of chicken paprika tonight!

Still Hungry! Try these chicken recipes:

• Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
• Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
• Slow Cooker Chicken Piccata