Creamy Paprika Zucchini Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that comes together in just 30 minutes. Tender chicken breasts are simmered with fresh vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini in a rich, creamy sauce – perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
The sweetness of the bell peppers meets the light freshness of zucchini, all tied together by a silky cream sauce. The result: a dish that’s packed with flavor but still feels light and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❤️
- Creamy & flavorful: The velvety sauce makes every bite delicious.
- Quick & easy: Ready in just 30 minutes – ideal for weeknights.
- Versatile: Great with rice, pasta, potatoes, or crusty bread.
- Family-friendly: Mild flavor that kids and adults will enjoy.
- Customizable: Add more herbs, spices, or veggies to taste.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 200 ml (about ¾ cup) heavy cream
- 1 tsp paprika powder (mild or hot)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tsp honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sear the chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Heat oil in a large pan and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown (about 5–7 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
2. Cook the vegetables
In the same pan, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
Add bell peppers and zucchini, and cook for about 5 minutes until tender.
3. Make the creamy sauce
Pour in cream and add thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
(Optional: stir in honey for a hint of sweetness.) Let simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Combine & finish
Return the chicken to the pan and let it simmer in the sauce for another 2–3 minutes.
Sprinkle with fresh herbs and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
- With rice (basmati or brown rice)
- Tossed with pasta like spaghetti or tagliatelle
- Alongside mashed potatoes or crispy roasted potatoes
- With crusty baguette for dipping into the sauce
- Paired with a crisp green salad for freshness
Tips & Variations
- Fresh kick: Add parsley or basil.
- Extra veggies: Try mushrooms, eggplant, or spinach.
- More spice: Add chili flakes, paprika paste, or curry.
- Lighter option: Swap cream for crème fraîche or coconut milk.
- Vegetarian twist: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu.
Nutrition (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 400–450 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Carbs: 10 g
- Fat: 25 g
Final Thoughts
Creamy Paprika Zucchini Chicken is a quick, creamy, and versatile dish that’s guaranteed to please everyone at the table. With simple ingredients, minimal prep time, and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect stress-free dinner. Try it once, and it just might become your new favorite recipe! 🥘