Slow Cooker Paprika Chicken Goulash for an Easy Weeknight Dinner Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

If you find the sauce is too thin after the cooking time, you can remove the lid for the final 30 minutes of cooking or stir in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with cold water. This will help the sauce achieve a more velvety texture that coats the back of a spoon, making the dish even more comforting and satisfying to eat.

For an extra depth of flavor, you can briefly sauté the onions in a pan before adding them to the slow cooker, although this is optional.

This extra step caramelizes the natural sugars in the onions, adding a subtle complexity to the final sauce. Be sure to let any sautéed items cool slightly before adding them to the slow cooker to maintain safe handling practices.

Variations

• Creamy Paprika Chicken: Stir in a half-cup of sour cream or heavy cream just before serving to add a rich, velvety finish to the sauce. This variation adds a luxurious texture that complements the earthiness of the paprika perfectly.
• Vegetable-Packed Goulash: Add sliced bell peppers or mushrooms along with the onions to increase the vegetable content and add extra texture. These vegetables cook beautifully in the slow cooker and absorb the savory tomato broth flavors.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it is refrigerated within 2 hours of cooking.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Store any leftover goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the food cools down to room temperature within 2 hours of cooking before placing it in the fridge. When reheating, ensure the dish is heated thoroughly until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to maintain quality and food safety standards.

This dish is perfect for making ahead as the flavors often deepen after sitting for a day. Simply follow the cooking instructions, allow the goulash to cool completely, and store it in the refrigerator.

When you are ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to adjust the consistency of the sauce.

Serving ideas

Serve the goulash hot, ideally over a bed of buttery egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or steamed rice, which are excellent at soaking up the flavorful tomato broth.

A side of crusty bread is also highly recommended for mopping up any remaining sauce on the plate. For a touch of freshness, consider topping each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

When presenting the dish, ensure the chicken is evenly distributed among the servings. A bright, colorful plate contrasts beautifully with the deep, rich colors of the goulash, making it an appealing meal for any occasion.

The warmth of the dish makes it particularly suitable for cold weather, providing a hearty and comforting experience that is sure to please everyone at the table.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Paprika Chicken Goulash for an Easy Weeknight Dinner

Prep 10 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 15 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 1.5 lb diced chicken
• 2 medium onions, sliced
• 2 tbsp red paprika
• 2 cups tomato broth

Instructions

1. Place the diced chicken into the bottom of the slow cooker to ensure even cooking throughout the process. Scatter the sliced onions evenly over the chicken, allowing them to soften and release their sweetness as the dish simmers.
2. Sprinkle the red paprika generously over the onions and chicken to infuse the base with deep flavor. Pour the tomato broth over the top, ensuring that the chicken and onions are mostly submerged to keep the meat moist.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours. Once finished, check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving on warm plates.

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

320

Protein

35 g

Carbohydrates

12 g

Fat

14 g

Fiber

2.5 g

Sugar

5 g

Sodium

450 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.