Creamy Paprika Chicken with Roasted Potatoes and a Fresh Vegetable Salad is a wholesome and flavorful meal that combines succulent chicken breast seasoned with paprika and garlic, crispy roasted potatoes, and a vibrant, refreshing salad. This dish is perfect for any meal, offering a delicious balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe provides a satisfying combination of creamy textures and fresh flavors. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be prepared in under an hour!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Creamy Paprika Chicken:

• Butter: 40 g (1.4 oz)
• Chicken breast: 1 kg (2 lb)
• Olive oil: 20 ml (0.7 fl oz)
• Black pepper: 4 g (0.1 oz)
• Salt: 4 g (0.1 oz)
• Onion powder: 4 g (0.1 oz)
• Sweet paprika: 4 g (0.1 oz)
• Garlic: 10 g (0.4 oz), minced
• Sour cream: 70 g (2.5 oz)
• Mozzarella: 150 g (5.3 oz), shredded
• Oregano: 4 g (0.1 oz)

For the Roasted Potatoes:

• Potatoes: 500 g (18 oz), diced
• Black pepper: 3 g (0.1 oz)
• Salt: 3 g (0.1 oz)
• Sweet paprika: 3 g (0.1 oz)
• Olive oil: 15 ml (0.5 fl oz)

For the Fresh Vegetable Salad:

• Cucumbers: 2 pcs, sliced
• Tomatoes: 2 pcs, chopped
• Yellow bell pepper: 1 pc, diced
• Red onion: 1 pc, thinly sliced
• Mint: 5 g (0.2 oz), chopped
• Olive oil: 15 ml (0.5 fl oz)
• Salt: 2 g (0.1 oz)
• Black pepper: 2 g (0.1 oz)

Steps to Make It:

Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Paprika Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix the black pepper, salt, onion powder, and sweet paprika. Rub this seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
2. Heat the Pan: In a large pan over medium heat, add olive oil and butter. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the pan and cook for about 6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same pan, reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream, combining it with the garlic and chicken drippings to create a creamy sauce. Add in the shredded mozzarella and oregano, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
5. Return the Chicken: Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the pan, spooning the sauce over them. Let the chicken simmer for another 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Roast the Potatoes

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
2. Prepare the Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the diced potatoes with olive oil, black pepper, salt, and sweet paprika.
3. Roast the Potatoes: Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast them for 25-30 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden brown on the outside and tender on the inside. Stir the potatoes halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.

Step 3: Make the Fresh Vegetable Salad

1. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, chopped tomatoes, diced yellow bell pepper, and thinly sliced red onion.
2. Add Mint and Seasoning: Sprinkle the chopped mint over the vegetables and season with salt and black pepper.
3. Dress the Salad: Drizzle olive oil over the salad and toss everything together until evenly coated.

Step 4: Serve the Dish

1. Plate the Chicken: Place a chicken breast on each plate and spoon the creamy sauce over the top.
2. Add the Potatoes: Serve the roasted potatoes alongside the chicken.
3. Garnish with Salad: Add a portion of the fresh vegetable salad on the side for a refreshing contrast.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

• Calories: 600 kcal
• Protein: 45g
• Fat: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 6g
• Calcium: 250mg
• Iron: 4mg
• Vitamin C: 40% of the daily value

This dish provides a healthy balance of macronutrients, including a good source of lean protein from the chicken, complex carbohydrates from the potatoes, and fiber-rich vegetables from the salad.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I substitute sour cream with something else?
   • Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or heavy cream instead of sour cream for a similar creamy texture.
2. How can I make the dish spicier?
   • To add heat, you can include a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the chicken seasoning.
3. Is this dish gluten-free?
   • Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure your cheese and other ingredients are certified gluten-free if needed.
4. Can I use different vegetables in the salad?
   • Absolutely! You can add or replace any of the vegetables with ingredients like lettuce, radishes, or avocado.

Tips for Making the Best Creamy Paprika Chicken:

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To keep the chicken tender and juicy, avoid overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
• Season the Potatoes Generously: For perfectly crispy roasted potatoes, make sure they are well-seasoned and spaced out on the baking sheet. Overcrowding the pan can result in soggy potatoes.
• Make the Sauce Ahead of Time: If you’re short on time, you can prepare the creamy paprika sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken and potatoes in the oven or microwave before serving.
• Freezing: The chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a pan with a little extra cream or stock.
• Salad Storage: The salad is best consumed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Avoid adding the olive oil dressing until right before serving to keep it crisp.

Conclusion:

Creamy Paprika Chicken with Roasted Potatoes and Fresh Vegetable Salad is a comforting and flavorful meal that satisfies all cravings. The tender chicken breast in a rich, cheesy sauce pairs perfectly with crispy roasted potatoes and a refreshing vegetable salad. Whether you’re preparing a meal for the family or hosting a small gathering, this dish is sure to impress with its combination of textures and flavors. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a recipe that can quickly become a household favorite. Enjoy!