Chicken Paprikash

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Introduction

Chicken Paprikash is a classic Hungarian dish celebrated for its bold flavors and comforting, creamy sauce infused with the rich aroma of sweet paprika. Tender chicken pieces are simmered to perfection in a flavorful base of onions, garlic, tomatoes, and sour cream, creating a dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and full of depth.

I remember the first time I made Chicken Paprikash; it felt like stepping into a cozy Hungarian kitchen. The sweet and smoky aroma of paprika filled the air, and the creamy, velvety sauce was pure comfort. Paired with traditional egg noodles or buttery dumplings, it quickly became a family favorite.

What makes Chicken Paprikash so special is its simplicity and versatility. While the traditional recipe uses sweet paprika, you can experiment with hot paprika for a spicy kick or smoked paprika for a deeper, more robust flavor. Garnishing with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream adds a bright, fresh touch to this indulgent dish.

Whether you’re seeking a cozy meal for a chilly evening or exploring European cuisine, Chicken Paprikash is a dish that’s easy to prepare yet delivers an unforgettable, authentic taste of Hungary.

Perfect for:

  • Cozy family dinners
  • Meal prepping
  • Exploring Hungarian cuisine
  • Comfort food cravings
  • Impressing guests with a traditional dish

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Paprikash

Here’s why Chicken Paprikash will become a staple in your kitchen:

  • Rich and Creamy Sauce: The combination of sour cream and paprika creates a luxurious sauce that’s rich in flavor yet easy to prepare.
  • Perfect Comfort Food: Tender chicken and hearty sauce make this the ultimate comfort dish for cold days or whenever you need a warm, satisfying meal.
  • Easy to Make: This one-pot recipe is straightforward and requires minimal cleanup, making it perfect for weeknight cooking.
  • Versatile and Customizable: Adjust the spice level or add vegetables to make it your own while keeping the essence of this classic dish.
  • Authentic European Flavor: Experience the warm, smoky flavors of Hungary with this traditional dish that’s simple enough for home cooking.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 50 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 12g, Fat: 25g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make Chicken Paprikash:

  • 2 pounds chicken (thighs, drumsticks, or a mix)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added depth)
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Noodles, rice, or dumplings, for serving

Ingredient Highlights

  • Sweet Hungarian Paprika: The star of the dish, this paprika brings a sweet, slightly smoky flavor that defines Chicken Paprikash. Smoked paprika can be added for extra depth.
  • Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and a tangy finish to the sauce, perfectly balancing the smoky paprika.
  • Chicken: Bone-in chicken pieces are traditionally used for their flavor, but boneless thighs or breasts work well too.
  • Caraway Seeds: An optional but authentic addition that enhances the dish’s depth and aroma.
  • Tomatoes: These provide a slight acidity that complements the creaminess of the sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Chicken Paprikash:

Prepare the Ingredients:

  1. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels and season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
  2. Heat the Oil: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat.

Cook the Chicken:

  1. Sear the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pan and sear them for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Make the Sauce:

  1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onion. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
  2. Add the Paprika: Sprinkle the sweet and smoked paprika over the onions, stirring constantly for 30 seconds to release their flavor. Be careful not to burn the paprika.
  3. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
  4. Add the Tomatoes and Caraway Seeds: Stir in the diced tomatoes and optional caraway seeds. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Simmer the Chicken:

  1. Return the Chicken: Place the seared chicken pieces back into the pan, ensuring they are partially submerged in the sauce. Cover and simmer over low heat for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

Finish the Sauce:

  1. Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the sour cream with the flour (if using) to prevent curdling. Stir the sour cream mixture into the sauce and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, uncovered, until the sauce is thick and creamy.

Garnish and Serve:

  1. Garnish: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish for a fresh finish.
  2. Serve: Serve the chicken and sauce over egg noodles, rice, or traditional Hungarian dumplings (nokedli).

How to Serve Chicken Paprikash

Chicken Paprikash is best served as a hearty main dish. Here are some serving suggestions:

  • Over Egg Noodles: The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with wide egg noodles, which soak up the flavors beautifully.
  • With Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice is an excellent base for the rich sauce.
  • Traditional Dumplings: For an authentic experience, serve with Hungarian dumplings called nokedli or spaetzle.
  • With Crusty Bread: Use fresh bread to mop up the flavorful sauce for a rustic touch.
  • As a One-Pot Meal: Serve the chicken and sauce with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Additional Tips for Chicken Paprikash

Here are some tips to ensure your Chicken Paprikash turns out perfectly every time:

  • Use Authentic Paprika: Hungarian paprika is key to achieving the authentic flavor of this dish. Avoid generic paprika blends.
  • Avoid Boiling the Sauce: Simmer the sauce gently to prevent the sour cream from curdling.
  • Bone-In Chicken for Flavor: Bone-in chicken pieces yield a richer flavor, but boneless thighs or breasts work for a quicker option.
  • Make It Spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you prefer a spicier dish.
  • Don’t Skip the Browning: Searing the chicken adds depth and flavor to the dish.
  • Adjust Thickness: For a thicker sauce, use a bit more flour or let the sauce simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.

Recipe Variations for Chicken Paprikash

Here are 10 ways to customize Chicken Paprikash:

  1. Vegetarian Paprikash: Replace the chicken with mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian version.
  2. Spicy Paprikash: Add hot Hungarian paprika or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
  3. Creamy Paprikash: Use heavy cream instead of sour cream for an even richer sauce.
  4. Chicken Paprikash with Potatoes: Add diced potatoes to the sauce for a heartier dish.
  5. Paprikash with Bell Peppers: Sauté sliced bell peppers with the onions for extra sweetness.
  6. Low-Carb Paprikash: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
  7. Slow Cooker Paprikash: Cook the chicken and sauce in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours for a hands-off version.
  8. Smoky Paprikash: Use more smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor.
  9. Dairy-Free Paprikash: Substitute coconut cream or cashew cream for sour cream for a dairy-free version.
  10. Seafood Paprikash: Try the sauce with shrimp or fish for a unique twist.

Freezing and Storage for Chicken Paprikash

  • Freezing: Store cooled Chicken Paprikash in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.
  • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave before serving.

Special Equipment for Chicken Paprikash

Here’s what you’ll need to make Chicken Paprikash:

  • Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: A deep skillet or Dutch oven is ideal for cooking the chicken and sauce together.
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Use these for stirring to prevent scratching the pan.
  • Whisk: To blend the sour cream and flour smoothly.
  • Sharp Knife: For cutting the onions and chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions for Chicken Paprikash

  1. Can I make this dairy-free?
    Yes, you can use dairy-free sour cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
  2. Can I use boneless chicken?
    Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs or breasts work well, though bone-in pieces are more traditional.
  3. What if I can’t find Hungarian paprika?
    Substitute with high-quality sweet paprika, but the flavor may not be as authentic.
  4. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
    Yes, Chicken Paprikash reheats beautifully and can be made a day in advance.
  5. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
    Yes, brown the chicken and sauté the onions on the stovetop first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Conclusion

Chicken Paprikash is a hearty, flavorful dish that captures the essence of Hungarian comfort food. Featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich, creamy sauce infused with sweet paprika, this dish is a true celebration of bold, warming flavors. Traditionally served over egg noodles or dumplings, it’s versatile enough to pair with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.

This classic recipe is simple to prepare yet delivers an impressive depth of flavor, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The creamy, paprika-spiced sauce adds richness, while the tender chicken melts in your mouth, creating a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

Whether you’re exploring Hungarian cuisine for the first time or recreating a nostalgic dish, Chicken Paprikash is a satisfying and comforting choice. I’d love to see how your Chicken Paprikash turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!