Creamy Cheesy Paprika Chicken Breasts

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Creamy Cheesy Paprika Chicken Breasts Recipe

Creamy Cheesy Paprika Chicken Breasts is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce infused with the warm, smoky taste of paprika. Topped with melted cheese, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The sauce pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta, making it a versatile recipe that’s sure to become a favorite at the dinner table. Follow these simple steps to create a dish that’s both easy and delicious!

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (regular paprika can also be used)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

    Instructions

    1. Prepare the Chicken:
    • Season the chicken breasts on both sides with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This will add a delicious flavor to the meat and give the dish a nice color.
    1. Sear the Chicken:
    • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
    1. Make the Sauce:
    • In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
    • Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping the bottom of the skillet to incorporate any browned bits left from the chicken. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes.
    1. Add the Cheeses:
    • Gradually add the shredded mozzarella (or cheddar) and Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.
    1. Return the Chicken to the Skillet:
    • Add the cooked chicken breasts back to the skillet, spooning some of the creamy sauce over each piece. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors.
    1. Garnish and Serve:
    • Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve the creamy cheesy paprika chicken breasts hot, with your choice of side dishes like mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.

    Tips for Success

    • Choosing Paprika: For a smoky flavor, use smoked paprika. If you prefer a milder taste, regular paprika works just as well.
    • Thickening the Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes until it reaches the desired consistency. You can also add a small amount of cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) to help thicken it.
    • Cheese Options: While mozzarella and Parmesan add a delicious combination of creaminess and tang, feel free to use other cheeses like Gouda, Gruyère, or even cream cheese for a richer sauce.

    Conclusion

    Creamy Cheesy Paprika Chicken Breasts is a dish that brings together the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and smoky paprika flavor. This easy recipe transforms simple ingredients into a comforting meal that the whole family will love. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or a more formal gathering, this dish will always deliver on taste. Try it out and enjoy the rich flavors and comforting warmth of this delicious chicken recipe!

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