There are some recipes that feel like a warm hug at the end of a long day… and this Simple Chicken Goulash is exactly that kind of meal. It reminds me of evenings when the kitchen smells rich and comforting, when something hearty simmers quietly while life slows down just a little. It’s the type of dish that doesn’t demand perfection — just simple ingredients, a little patience, and a craving for something cozy.

Growing up, goulash always felt like a “real dinner” kind of meal. The kind that fills the house with savory aromas and brings everyone to the table without needing to call them twice. While traditional versions often use beef, this easy chicken goulash has become my go-to when I want something lighter, quicker, but still incredibly satisfying.

What I love most about this recipe is how effortlessly it fits into everyday life. Busy weekday? It works. Lazy Sunday? Even better. It’s hearty enough for cold nights, but simple enough to make year-round. Plus, the ingredients are pantry-friendly, making it perfect when you want comfort food without a complicated grocery list.

If you’re looking for a flavorful chicken dinner recipe that delivers big comfort with minimal effort, this Simple Chicken Goulash might just become one of your regular favorites.

Why You’ll Love It

Easy, budget-friendly ingredients
Most of the ingredients are probably already in your kitchen. No specialty shopping required, which makes this an ideal last-minute dinner.

Comfort food with a lighter twist
Using chicken instead of beef creates a lighter yet still satisfying version of classic goulash.

Perfect for busy weeknights
This easy chicken goulash comes together quickly and doesn’t require complicated steps.

Family-friendly flavors
Mild spices and a rich tomato base make this recipe appealing even for picky eaters.

Great for leftovers
The flavors deepen overnight, making it even better the next day.

Versatile and customizable
You can easily adapt the ingredients to suit what you have available in your kitchen.

Ingredient Notes & Details

Chicken breast or chicken thighs
Boneless, skinless chicken works best for this easy chicken goulash. Thighs provide more juiciness, while breast offers a leaner option.

Onion
Adds natural sweetness and depth to the sauce. Yellow or white onions work best.

Garlic
Fresh garlic gives the dish a warm aromatic base that enhances the tomato sauce.

Bell pepper
A classic ingredient in goulash that brings color, sweetness, and subtle texture.

Tomato sauce
Forms the rich base of this chicken goulash recipe. Choose a good-quality sauce for the best flavor.

Paprika
Essential for authentic flavor. Smoked paprika adds extra depth.

Italian seasoning
Adds herbal notes that balance the richness of the tomato base.

Pasta (elbow macaroni or small shells)
Traditional goulash uses pasta to create a hearty, satisfying dish.

Chicken broth
Enhances flavor and helps create the perfect sauce consistency.

Salt and pepper
Simple seasoning that brings all the flavors together.

Olive oil
Used for sautéing and adding a subtle richness.

Optional additions:

Cheese – adds creamy texture
Carrots – for sweetness
Mushrooms – for an earthy flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients
Cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes. Dice the onion, bell pepper, and garlic so everything is ready to cook smoothly.

Step 2: Sauté the aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes until soft and slightly translucent.

Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the chicken
Add the chicken pieces to the pot. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly golden on the outside.

The chicken does not need to be fully cooked yet — it will finish cooking in the sauce.

Step 4: Add vegetables and seasoning
Stir in bell pepper, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes to release the flavors of the spices.

Step 5: Pour in tomato sauce and broth
Add tomato sauce and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 6: Add pasta
Add uncooked pasta directly into the pot. Stir so the pasta is submerged in the sauce.

Cover and let simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 7: Check texture and adjust seasoning
The pasta should be tender and the sauce slightly thickened.

Taste and adjust salt or pepper if needed.

Step 8: Optional cheese topping
Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and let it melt for a creamy finish.

Serve warm and enjoy this comforting chicken goulash for dinner.

FAQ for Common Questions

What is chicken goulash made of?
Chicken goulash typically includes chicken, pasta, tomato sauce, paprika, onion, garlic, and broth. It is a simplified version of traditional goulash.

Can I make easy chicken goulash ahead of time?
Yes. This dish reheats very well, making it ideal for meal prep.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. Simply add cooked shredded chicken during the final simmer stage.

Is chicken goulash freezer friendly?
Yes, this recipe freezes well for up to 3 months.

What pasta works best in goulash?
Elbow macaroni is traditional, but shells or penne also work well.

Can I make this recipe gluten free?
Yes, simply substitute gluten-free pasta.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing
Allow the goulash to cool completely before freezing. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

Reheating
Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Microwave reheating also works well for individual portions.

Variations

Cheesy Chicken Goulash
Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a creamy, comforting texture.

Spicy Chicken Goulash
Add chili flakes or hot paprika for extra heat.

Vegetable Chicken Goulash
Include zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms for more nutrition.

Creamy Chicken Goulash
Stir in a little cream or cream cheese for a richer sauce.

Low Carb Chicken Goulash
Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower for a lighter version.

Baked Chicken Goulash
Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly for a comforting oven-finished dish.

What to Serve with Simple Chicken Goulash

Fresh salads
A crisp green salad balances the richness of the dish.

Crusty bread
Perfect for soaking up the flavorful tomato sauce.

Roasted vegetables
Oven roasted carrots, zucchini, or broccoli complement the dish beautifully.

Light soups
A simple broth-based soup pairs well for a cozy meal.

Pickled vegetables
Acidity helps balance the hearty flavors of this chicken goulash recipe.

Simple Chicken Goulash

This Simple Chicken Goulash is a comforting, one-pot meal packed with tender chicken, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. Easy to make and full of cozy flavor, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.

Print Pin Rate

Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes minutes

Servings: 5

Ingredients

Chicken & Base

• 500 g 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic minced

Sauce

• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 can 400 g / 14 oz crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp paprika sweet paprika preferred
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Pasta

• 2 cups dry elbow macaroni or any short pasta
• 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella

Optional garnish

• Fresh parsley or basil
• Extra cheese on top

Instructions

• Cook the pasta
• Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook pasta according to package instructions until tender.
• Drain and set aside.
• Cook the chicken
• Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
• Add chicken pieces and cook for 5–7 minutes until lightly browned.
• Remove from pan and set aside.
• Prepare the sauce
• In the same pan, add chopped onion and cook 3–4 minutes until soft.
• Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute more.
• Add tomato paste and mix well.
• Simmer
• Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth.
• Add paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
• Return chicken to the pan.
• Simmer 10–12 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and sauce thickens slightly.
• Combine
• Add cooked pasta to the sauce.
• Stir well so everything is coated evenly.
• Sprinkle cheese on top and mix until melted.
• Serve
• Serve warm with fresh herbs if desired.