Croatian Chicken Skillet with Bell Peppers, Mushrooms, and Smoked Paprika Recipe
This Croatian Chicken recipe features tender boneless chicken thighs sautéed with blistered bell peppers, mushrooms, garlic, and aromatic thyme, seasoned with smoked paprika and served as a flavorful and quick meal. The dish highlights the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean ingredients and is perfect for a casual dinner or a delicious sandwich filling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Croatian
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
- 2 bell peppers, seeded and roughly chopped (any color)
- 1 red onion, peeled and roughly chopped
- 8 ounces button mushrooms, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Fats
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt, to taste (approximately 1 1/2 teaspoons)
- Ground black pepper, to taste (approximately 1/2 teaspoon)
Instructions
- Char the bell peppers: Place a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the bell peppers without oil to the skillet and char them until they are lightly blistered and softened. Remove the peppers from the skillet and set them aside.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Add the butter, chopped red onion, and minced garlic to the hot skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Push the onions and garlic to one side of the skillet to make room for the chicken.
- Cook the chicken and mushrooms: Add the bite-sized chicken thighs, quartered mushrooms, fresh or dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and ground black pepper to the skillet. Sauté everything together, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Combine and finish cooking: Return the blistered bell peppers to the skillet with the chicken mixture. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow all the flavors to blend. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as necessary.
- Serve: Serve the Croatian chicken hot, either as is or on soft, bubbly bread rolls. For an authentic experience similar to Croatian sandwiches, use soft ciabatta buns or similar bread rolls.
Notes
- Use a large cast iron skillet for even heat and best charring of the bell peppers.
- Feel free to use bell peppers of any color or even a mix for a colorful presentation.
- Fresh thyme provides a brighter flavor, but dried thyme works well in a pinch.
- Butter adds richness; substitute with olive oil if preferred.
- This dish pairs well with crusty bread or can be served with rice or potatoes for a more substantial meal.
- Adjust smoked paprika quantity if you prefer a milder or smokier flavor.
