Creamy Paprika Chicken Recipe – Garlic & Mushroom Delight

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Creamy Paprika Chicken Recipe – Garlic & Mushroom Delight

Introduction

Oh, this recipe! It’s one I stumbled upon while craving something comforting and a little bit fancy, and it’s been a family favourite ever since. Creamy, flavourful, and surprisingly easy to make, this Paprika Chicken with Garlic and Mushrooms is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It’s a hug in a bowl, honestly! I first made this when I was trying to impress my in-laws, and it was a hit. Let’s get cooking, shall we?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just another chicken recipe. The combination of smoky paprika, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy sauce is simply divine. It’s quick enough for a busy evening – ready in about 30 minutes – but tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s easily adaptable to suit your tastes and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this magic:

• 500 gram chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon green chilli paste
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried mixed herbs
• 2 small spring onion
• 1 green pepper/capsicum (julienned)
• 250 gram white or brown mushroom
• 3 tablespoons cake flour
• 1 cup chicken stock
• 1×380 gram evaporated milk
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference:

• Chicken: I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. They cook quickly and stay nice and tender.
• Paprika: Don’t skimp on the paprika! It’s the star of the show.
• Mushrooms: You can use any kind of mushroom you like – button, cremini, or even shiitake.
• Evaporated Milk: This gives the sauce a lovely richness without being too heavy.
• Flour: Cake flour creates a beautifully smooth sauce, but all-purpose flour works in a pinch.

Olive Oil Varieties & Their Impact

Using a good quality olive oil really elevates the flavour. Extra virgin olive oil has a bolder flavour, perfect for sautéing the garlic and chilli. A lighter olive oil is also fine if you prefer a more subtle taste.

The Role of Paprika: Sweet vs. Smoked

Paprika isn’t just paprika! Sweet paprika provides a mild, fruity flavour, while smoked paprika adds a lovely smoky depth. I usually use sweet paprika, but a pinch of smoked paprika can be a fantastic addition for extra complexity.

Understanding Evaporated Milk in Indian Cooking

Evaporated milk is a fantastic ingredient in Indian cooking. It adds a creamy texture and richness without the need for heavy cream. It’s also more stable at higher temperatures, making it ideal for sauces.

Choosing Chicken Breasts: Freshness & Quality

Always opt for fresh chicken breasts whenever possible. Look for a pinkish hue and a firm texture. If you’re using frozen chicken, make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get down to business!

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic paste and 1 teaspoon of green chilli paste. Sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
2. Add 500 grams of chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces) to the pan, along with 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook in batches, ensuring each piece is lightly browned. Set the cooked chicken aside.
3. Melt 1/4 cup of butter in the same pan. Add 2 chopped spring onions, 1 julienned green pepper/capsicum, and 250 grams of sliced mushrooms. Sauté until the vegetables are caramelized and softened – this takes about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in 1 teaspoon of dried mixed herbs and 3 tablespoons of flour. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. If the mixture starts to stick, add a splash of water.
5. Gradually pour in 1 cup of chicken stock and 1×380 gram can of evaporated milk. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens – this should take about 3-5 minutes.
6. Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld together. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve hot!

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning the chicken. Cooking in batches ensures even browning.
• Stir the sauce constantly to prevent sticking and ensure a smooth consistency.
• Taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning to your liking.

Variations

• Vegan Adaptation: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas. Use plant-based butter and evaporated milk alternatives.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation (Flour Substitutions): Use cornstarch or gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of cake flour.
• Spice Level Adjustment (Increasing the Chilli): Add more green chilli paste or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick. My friend, Priya, loves to add a whole chopped green chilli!
• Festival Adaptation (Christmas/New Year’s Dinner): Serve with roasted vegetables and a side of fluffy rice for a festive feast.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy paprika chicken is incredibly versatile. It pairs beautifully with:

• Steamed rice
• Mashed potatoes
• Roasted vegetables
• Crusty bread for soaking up the sauce

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

FAQs

What cut of chicken works best for this recipe?

Chicken breasts are ideal for their quick cooking time and tenderness. However, you can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavour.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Absolutely! Use about 3 times the amount of fresh herbs as you would dried.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Add the cooked chicken just before serving.

What side dishes complement this creamy paprika chicken?

Steamed rice, mashed potatoes, and roasted vegetables are all excellent choices.

How can I adjust the thickness of the sauce?

If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken stock or milk. If it’s too thin, simmer for a few more minutes to allow it to reduce.