Hungarian Chicken Paprikash Recipe

Introduction

Hungarian Chicken Paprikash is a classic and hearty dish that beautifully showcases the bold and rich flavors of Hungarian cuisine. This comfort food is a favorite in homes and restaurants around the world, renowned for its tender chicken simmered in a flavorful sauce made with paprika, onions, and sour cream. The dish is often served over egg noodles, dumplings, or rice, making it the ultimate satisfying meal.

Paprikash, or “paprika stew,” is a dish deeply rooted in Hungarian tradition. The star of the recipe is the sweet Hungarian paprika, which lends a distinct and vibrant flavor to the sauce, creating a warm, aromatic base that perfectly complements the tender chicken. This recipe is not only comforting and filling but also simple to prepare, making it ideal for home cooks of all experience levels. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of making this delicious dish, share helpful tips for perfecting your Paprikash, and suggest some fun variations to personalize it to your taste.

Why You’ll Love Hungarian Chicken Paprikash

• Flavorful and Comforting: The rich, creamy sauce, made with paprika and sour cream, envelopes the tender chicken, creating a dish that is both comforting and full of deep, savory flavors. Every bite is a perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and creamy.
• Simple Ingredients: With a handful of basic ingredients like chicken, onions, paprika, and sour cream, this recipe proves that you don’t need a long list of complicated ingredients to create a flavorful dish.
• Hearty and Filling: The dish is a complete meal, thanks to the protein-packed chicken and creamy sauce. Whether served over noodles, rice, or dumplings, Hungarian Chicken Paprikash is a satisfying option for any meal.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can make this dish your own by adjusting the amount of paprika to suit your taste, or even experiment with different types of paprika for varying flavor profiles. You can also add vegetables or adjust the richness of the sauce to your preference.
• Perfect for Family Meals or Entertaining: This dish makes a great family dinner, and its impressive flavor profile is sure to wow guests at any gathering. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 calories per serving, depending on the type of chicken used and the portion size.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 18-22g
• Carbohydrates: 12-15g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3-5g

Ingredients

For the Hungarian Chicken Paprikash:

• 4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts, if preferred)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or butter for a richer flavor)
• 3 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika (preferably mild, but can be adjusted to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 1 cup sour cream (preferably full-fat for a creamier texture)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening the sauce)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for added depth of flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• 1 bay leaf (optional)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

For Serving:

• Egg noodles, rice, or dumplings (your choice of side dish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Begin by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step helps achieve a golden-brown sear on the chicken. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.

Heat the vegetable oil (or butter) in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces to the pan, skin-side down (if using skinless thighs, place either side down). Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until it develops a nice golden brown color. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Onions

In the same skillet or Dutch oven, reduce the heat to medium and add the finely chopped onions. Sauté the onions for about 5-7 minutes until they become soft and translucent, stirring occasionally. The onions will absorb the delicious fond left in the pan from the chicken, adding even more flavor to the dish.

3. Add the Paprika and Other Spices

Once the onions are softened, add the sweet Hungarian paprika and stir it into the onions. Let the paprika cook for about 1 minute to release its oils and flavors. Be careful not to burn the paprika, as it can become bitter if overcooked. If you like a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use hot paprika instead of sweet paprika.

If using, add the garlic powder, tomato paste, dried thyme, and bay leaf at this point, stirring to combine. The tomato paste adds a subtle depth of flavor to the sauce.

4. Make the Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the onion and paprika mixture and stir to coat the onions. This will help thicken the sauce. Let the flour cook for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw taste. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to ensure the mixture is smooth. The sauce should begin to thicken as it simmers.

Return the seared chicken pieces to the pan, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce. Cover the skillet or Dutch oven and simmer the chicken in the sauce for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. If using bone-in chicken, you may need a bit more time to ensure the meat is fully cooked.

5. Add the Sour Cream

Once the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate. Stir in the sour cream until it is fully incorporated into the sauce, creating a creamy and rich base. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if necessary.

Return the chicken to the pan and coat it in the sauce, allowing it to reheat for about 5 minutes. If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can add a little more chicken broth or water at this stage to reach your desired consistency.

6. Serve the Chicken Paprikash

Once the chicken is heated through and well-coated in the creamy paprika sauce, it’s ready to serve. Arrange the chicken on a serving platter and spoon the sauce over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

7. Serve with a Side Dish

Hungarian Chicken Paprikash is traditionally served with egg noodles, rice, or dumplings. The creamy sauce pairs wonderfully with all of these sides, allowing you to soak up every last bit of flavor. You can also serve it with a simple green salad on the side for a well-rounded meal.

Tips for Perfect Hungarian Chicken Paprikash

• Use High-Quality Paprika: The flavor of the dish relies heavily on the paprika, so it’s important to use high-quality Hungarian sweet paprika. If you prefer a bit of heat, you can experiment with a mix of sweet and hot paprika to achieve the right balance.
• Don’t Skip the Searing: Searing the chicken first helps develop a deep, flavorful crust that adds richness to the dish. It also ensures the chicken stays moist and tender as it cooks in the sauce.
• Adjust the Thickness of the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, use a bit more flour or let the sauce cook down for longer. For a thinner sauce, simply add more chicken broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
• Sour Cream Variations: For a richer, tangier sauce, use full-fat sour cream. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, although the flavor may be slightly different.
• Add More Vegetables: If you want to boost the vegetable content, you can add diced bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to the dish. Simply sauté the vegetables with the onions for added flavor.

Variations of Hungarian Chicken Paprikash

• Chicken Paprikash with Dumplings: In Hungary, Chicken Paprikash is often served with homemade dumplings called “nokedli.” These soft, pillowy dumplings are perfect for soaking up the creamy paprika sauce. You can find a recipe for nokedli online or use store-bought dumplings for convenience.
• Pork Paprikash: For a variation of the traditional dish, try using pork instead of chicken. Pork tenderloin or pork chops work well in this dish, offering a slightly different flavor profile while still benefiting from the rich, creamy paprika sauce.
• Vegetarian Paprikash: For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables such as cauliflower, mushrooms, or potatoes. Simply cook the vegetables in the paprika sauce, ensuring they absorb all of the wonderful flavors.
• Spicy Paprikash: If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of hot paprika or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can also add diced chili peppers for an extra kick.

Storage and Shelf Life

Hungarian Chicken Paprikash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors often improve as the dish sits, making it an excellent option for leftovers.

To reheat, simply warm the dish on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

For longer storage, you can freeze Chicken Paprikash for up to 3 months. To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Hungarian Chicken Paprikash

While Chicken Paprikash is delicious on its own, it’s even better when paired with complementary sides. Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:

• Egg Noodles: A classic pairing, egg noodles are perfect for soaking up the creamy paprika sauce. Serve them alongside the chicken for a traditional Hungarian meal.
• Rice: White or brown rice works wonderfully with this dish, allowing the sauce to pool around the grains.
• Dumplings (Nokedli): For an authentic Hungarian experience, serve Chicken Paprikash with homemade dumplings. These soft, egg-based dumplings perfectly complement the dish.
• Green Vegetables: Pair your Chicken Paprikash with a simple side of sautéed spinach, green beans, or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish.

Print

Conclusion

Hungarian Chicken Paprikash is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings the heart and soul of Hungarian cuisine to your table. With its creamy paprika sauce, tender chicken, and hearty sides, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this dish will surely impress everyone at the table. Follow the steps and tips in this recipe to create a delicious, authentic Chicken Paprikash that is sure to become a favorite in your home.