Anastasia Rice June 16, 2026

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Slow Cooker Chicken Paprika

Name: Slow Cooker Chicken Paprika
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-495472H2M58S
Total time: PT-495472H2M58S
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Ingredients: 1 large onion, chopped; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons sweet paprika; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth; 1/2 tablespoon arrowroot powder (or 1-2 tablespoons flour); 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum; 14 oz. crushed tomatoes; 3/4 cup sour cream, low fat or full fat; Optional: sliced sun-dried tomatoes, chopped fresh parsley

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Slow Cooker Chicken Paprika is a comforting dish that fills your home with inviting aromas as it cooks slowly, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Imagine coming home after a long day to find a warm bowl of this flavorful stew waiting for you, perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. The rich, smoky undertones of paprika combined with tender chicken create an unforgettable meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. You may also find Chicken Pot Pie In The Slow Cooker useful.

Reasons to Love Slow Cooker Chicken Paprika

There are countless reasons to adore this dish, but here are a few highlights that make it a standout choice for dinner: You may also find Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowl useful.

Simplicity: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for cooks of any skill level.
Flavorful Comfort: The blend of spices and creamy sauce provides a delectable experience that warms the soul.
Flexibility: Slow Cooker Chicken Paprika is perfect for any occasion and can be paired with various sides.
Great Leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Gather These Ingredients

To create a delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Paprika, you’ll need a selection of ingredients that come together to create a hearty meal. The following list outlines what you’ll need for this dish:

1 large onion, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons sweet paprika
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth
1/2 tablespoon Arrowroot powder (or 1-2 tablespoons flour)
1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum
14 oz. crushed tomatoes
3/4 cup sour cream, low fat or full fat
Optional: sliced sun-dried tomatoes, chopped fresh parsley

Feel free to personalize it with other optional ingredients to elevate the flavor!

Step by Step

Heat 1 1/2 teaspoons of oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until lightly browned, about 2-3 minutes. Remove them to a plate.
Add the remaining oil to the pan and brown the chicken pieces for 1-2 minutes on each side. This adds extra flavor to the chicken.
Place the browned chicken at the bottom of a slow cooker, layering the cooked onions on top.
In a separate bowl, mix the crushed tomatoes, spices, and chicken broth. Stir to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Pour this mixture over the chicken and onions in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
Check the chicken for doneness at the 4-hour mark using a meat thermometer; it should register 165 degrees F. If it needs more time, leave it for another 1-2 hours.
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a platter and cover it with aluminum foil to keep warm.
In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid with sour cream. Stir well, then pour this mixture back into the slow cooker, mixing thoroughly.
In a small cup, mix the remaining broth with your choice of thickener (flour, xanthan gum, or arrowroot powder) to create a slurry. Make sure there are no lumps before adding it to the cooker.
Return the chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat with the sauce. Heat for an additional 5 minutes to warm through.

Serve this delicious chicken over noodles, mashed potatoes, or even mashed cauliflower for a wholesome meal. You can use 1-2 tablespoons of flour or cornstarch as the thickener for the sauce. Also, using room temperature sour cream helps prevent curdling in the sauce. Taste the sauce before serving; you can add more paprika if desired. Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be gently reheated in a skillet on low heat.

Prep ~15 mins, Cook ~4-6 hours, Total ~4-6 hours 15 mins, Servings ~6-8, Kcal ~350 per serving.

Plan Ahead

One excellent way to streamline your cooking is to prep ingredients ahead of time. Chop the onion and measure out your spices in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. You could even place the chicken in the slow cooker insert alongside the spices and broth the night before and refrigerate it, making it ready to plug in and cook the following day.

How to Store Leftovers

For storing any leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you wish to keep them longer, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags; they can last for about 3 months in the freezer. When reheating, gently warm on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain moisture. Always check for a fresh smell, indicating that your chicken is still good to enjoy.

Perfect Pairings

When preparing to serve Slow Cooker Chicken Paprika, consider these delightful pairings:

Homemade bread or dinner rolls
Simple green salad with a light vinaigrette
Buttery noodles to soak up the sauce
Roasted vegetables for added nutrition
Mashed potatoes for a classic combination
Rice or quinoa for a healthy grain alternative

Flavor Twists and Substitutions

Feel free to make this dish your own with these tasty variations:

Add Vegetables: Additional veggies such as bell peppers or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and nutrition.
Sour Cream Alternatives: Greek yogurt can provide a similar creaminess with added protein.
Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference; a milder paprika can be used for less spice.
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch.
Creamier Sauce: For an extra creamy texture, mix in some cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream before serving.
Citrus Zing: A splash of lemon juice or zest can brighten up the flavors right before serving.
Alternative Proteins: Use ground chicken or turkey in place of the chicken pieces for a different texture.
Vegan Twist: Substitute chicken for tofu or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth for a plant-based version.

Cook’s Notes and Secrets

To ensure the best outcomes with your Slow Cooker Chicken Paprika, consider these professional tips:

Ensure the chicken is submerged in the sauce for even cooking.
Feel free to use a thermometer to check the chicken’s doneness; it should reach 165 degrees F.
Allow the dish to rest a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Stir occasionally during cooking if your slow cooker allows it, to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.

Your Questions Answered

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but increase the cooking time to ensure it reaches a safe temperature.
What if I don’t have chicken broth?
You can substitute with water, but the flavor may be less robust. Adding more spices can help compensate for this.
How can I thicken the sauce without flour?
Use cornstarch or arrowroot powder mixed with cold water to thicken your sauce.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like carrots or peas will enhance the nutritional profile and flavor.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, Slow Cooker Chicken Paprika freezes well. Just be sure to store it in a freezer-safe container.

Wrapping Up

Slow Cooker Chicken Paprika is a fantastic addition to your meal rotation, bringing warmth and comfort to your table. With its ease of preparation and delightful flavor, it’s a meal you’ll love to recreate. It’s perfect for those chilly evenings when all you want is a cozy dish that feels like home. Don’t hesitate to invite friends and family to share in the deliciousness, and enjoy the comforting experience it brings. Happy cooking!

Slow Cooker Chicken Paprika

Author: anastasia-rice
Total Time: 255-375 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free

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Description

A comforting Slow Cooker Chicken Paprika that fills your home with inviting aromas and blends rich, smoky flavors for a satisfying meal.

Instructions

Heat 1 1/2 teaspoons of oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until lightly browned, about 2-3 minutes. Remove them to a plate.
Add the remaining oil to the pan and brown the chicken pieces for 1-2 minutes on each side.
Place the browned chicken at the bottom of a slow cooker, layering the cooked onions on top.
In a separate bowl, mix the crushed tomatoes, spices, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
Pour this mixture over the chicken and onions in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 240-360 minutes.
Check the chicken for doneness at the 240-minute mark using a meat thermometer; it should register 165 degrees F.
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a platter and cover it with aluminum foil to keep warm.
In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid with sour cream. Stir well, then pour this mixture back into the slow cooker.
In a small cup, mix the remaining broth with your choice of thickener (flour, xanthan gum, or arrowroot powder) to create a slurry.
Return the chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat with the sauce. Heat for an additional 5 minutes to warm through.