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Creamy Paprika Zucchini Chicken

Tender chicken breasts with zucchini in rich paprika cream sauce, perfect for easy weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, European
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts pounded to even thickness
  • 2 medium zucchini sliced into half-moons
  • 1 large onion thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp sweet paprika
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 0.5 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 0.25 tsp smoked paprika optional
  • fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet or cast-iron pan
  • Meat mallet
  • Measuring cups
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Season chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of sweet paprika on both sides.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  3. Sear chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
  4. Transfer chicken to a plate and tent with foil. Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet.
  5. Add sliced onions and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized.
  6. Add minced garlic and remaining sweet paprika, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant while stirring constantly.
  7. Sprinkle flour over vegetables and stir continuously for 1 minute to create a light roux.
  8. Gradually pour in chicken broth while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
  9. Slowly add heavy cream while stirring, bringing mixture to a gentle simmer until sauce thickens.
  10. Add zucchini slices and simmer for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
  11. Return chicken to skillet, spoon sauce over each piece and simmer 2-3 minutes to heat through.
  12. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

For best results, pound chicken to uniform thickness. Don't overcook zucchini to maintain texture. Sauce can be made ahead and reheated gently.