Crockpot Chicken Paprikash is a comforting dish that brings the flavors of Hungary to your kitchen with minimal effort. Imagine tender chunks of chicken simmered in a rich, paprika-infused sauce, served over a bed of fluffy rice or nestled alongside some crusty bread. The blend of seasonings offers warmth and depth, reminiscent of family meals shared around a cozy table. Perfect for busy weeknights, this is a dish that not only satisfies but also brings a sense of home.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Paprikash
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Crockpot Chicken Paprikash

I stumbled upon this recipe during a particularly chilly winter, seeking something hearty yet uncomplicated. From the moment it started cooking in my slow cooker, the enchanting aroma filled my home, promising a delicious meal ahead. Each bite reveals the tenderness of the chicken and a creamy sauce that’s simply irresistible. It’s become a go-to for quick dinners and serves beautifully for gatherings, making it a true crowd-pleaser. You simply have to try this easy, luscious dish that’s sure to warm both your tummy and your heart.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it.
Irresistible Flavor: The sweet and smoky notes of paprika combined with creamy sour cream are a match made in heaven.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant color of this dish makes it a centerpiece on your dining table.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for family dinners, a cozy night in, or casual get-togethers with friends.
Diet-Friendly Options: Gluten-free options are easily achievable with ingredient swaps.

Ingredients You’ll Need

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into chunks): The star of the dish, juicy chicken breast soaks up the flavors as it cooks slowly. You can substitute with chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
1 large yellow onion (chopped): This adds a sweet undertone to the dish. A white onion could work in a pinch.
1 can diced tomatoes with juice (14.5 ounces): This provides acidity and moisture, balancing the richness of the chicken. Fresh tomatoes can be substituted if you have them on hand.
2 tbsp sweet paprika: The key flavor in this dish, giving it a beautiful color and warm taste. Opt for Hungarian paprika for authenticity.
2 tsp garlic powder: Enhances the overall flavor profile. Fresh minced garlic can also be a great addition.
1 cup sour cream: This adds creaminess and tang to the sauce; Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for elevating flavors. Always taste as you go!
Fresh parsley (for serving): A sprinkle of green adds freshness and a nice contrast to the rich sauce.

How to Make Crockpot Chicken Paprikash

Combine Ingredients: Add the 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into chunks, 1 large yellow onion chopped, 1 can of diced tomatoes with juice, 2 tablespoons of sweet paprika, 2 teaspoons of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste into the slow cooker. Gently stir to combine everything.

Cook Low and Slow: Now, cover your slow cooker and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or on HIGH for 3–4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shred apart with a fork. The longer it cooks on low, the more infused with flavor it will become.

Add Creaminess: Once cooked, stir in 1 cup of sour cream until the sauce is smooth and creamy. This transforms the dish, bringing in a delightful richness that pairs beautifully with the chicken.

Adjust Seasoning: Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or paprika if needed. You want it just right to suit your palate.

Garnish and Serve: Finally, serve your Chicken Paprikash topped with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. It pairs beautifully with rice, noodles, or a slice of hearty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.

Storing & Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to extend its life, you can freeze Crockpot Chicken Paprikash for up to 3 months. Just make sure to place it in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. The texture may change slightly, but adding a touch of broth or additional sour cream can refresh the consistency.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking chicken by checking it at the lower end of the cooking time range.
For an extra layer of flavor, sauté the onions before adding them to the slow cooker.
Don’t skip the seasoning adjustments—tasting throughout the cooking process is key to achieving a balanced flavor.
This dish can be made ahead of time; just reheat it before serving.
For added smokiness, consider using smoked paprika instead of sweet paprika.

Crockpot Chicken Paprikash is a dish truly designed for enjoyment—its creamy texture and rich flavors make it a perfect comforting meal. The ease of preparation means you can whip it up on a whim or when you need something hearty. Don’t be afraid to experiment a little, maybe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices; that’s the beauty of cooking at home!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Just keep in mind you’ll need to increase the cooking time to ensure they reach a safe internal temperature.

What should I serve with Chicken Paprikash?

Traditional side options include buttered egg noodles or rice. A nice crusty bread or a green salad would complement this dish beautifully as well.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, replace the sour cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream you prepare by blending soaked cashews with a little water.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when it’s cooked through and tender. A good test is if a fork can easily shred the meat. You can also use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.

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Crockpot Chicken Paprikash

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Author: Anna
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 250 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: One Pot
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: Hungarian

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Description

Crockpot Chicken Paprikash brings together tender chicken chunks and rich flavors of paprika and creamy sauce. This easy meal is perfect for busy evenings, offering a delicious taste of comfort food right from your slow cooker.

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into chunks
1 large yellow onion chopped
1 can diced tomatoes with juice
2 tbsp sweet paprika
2 tsp garlic powder
1 cup sour cream
salt and pepper to taste
fresh parsley for serving

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Instructions

Add the chicken, onion, diced tomatoes, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
Gently stir to combine.
Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
Stir in the sour cream until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, then serve topped with fresh parsley.