Slow Cooker Creamy Paprika Chicken with Soft Cheese

Backstory

This dish marries the richness of soft cheese with the smokiness of paprika, creating a mouthwatering sauce that envelops tender chicken breasts. It’s an embrace of flavors perfect for any family dinner or cozy night in.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 large red onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 bell peppers (red or yellow), sliced
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 200g (7 oz) soft cheese (like cream cheese or herbed cheese)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika on both sides.

2. Layer the Ingredients: In the slow cooker, add the sliced red onion, minced garlic, and sliced peppers at the bottom. Place the seasoned chicken breasts on top.

3. Add Liquids and Cheese: Pour in the chicken broth. Then, dollop the soft cheese over the chicken. You don’t need to mix it in just yet; it will melt beautifully during cooking.

4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

5. Finish the Sauce: Once cooked, stir everything in the slow cooker until the soft cheese is fully incorporated into the sauce, creating a creamy consistency. If you prefer shredded chicken, use two forks to shred the chicken in the pot.

6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve over rice, pasta, or with some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Flavor Profile

The combination of creamy soft cheese and smoky paprika creates an incredibly rich and indulgent sauce. The sweetness from the red onion and peppers balances the dish perfectly, while garlic adds a warm backdrop of flavor that ties it all together.

If you’d like any alterations, just let me know! Happy cooking! 🍽️