As the cooler months approach, there’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of Chicken Paprikash to warm the soul. This classic Hungarian dish, with its tender chicken simmered in a luxurious paprika-infused sauce, has a way of transforming any ordinary dinner into a cozy culinary experience. I discovered this recipe while exploring my grandmother’s old cookbooks, and each bite transports me back to her kitchen where the scent of paprika filled the air.
Not only is Chicken Paprikash a celebration of rich flavors and aromas, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you choose to whip it up with bone-in chicken for that authentic touch or opt for boneless cuts for convenience, this dish promises comfort in every mouthful. As the sauce thickens, it wraps around the chicken like a warm hug—perfect for those evenings when you need a little extra love from your meal. Join me on this delightful journey into Eastern European cuisine, and let’s embrace the heartwarming power of Chicken Paprikash together!
Why Is Chicken Paprikash a Must-Try?
Comfort Food Elevated: This dish embodies warmth and coziness, perfect for chilly nights.
Rich, Flavorful Sauce: The blend of sweet and smoked paprika creates an unforgettable taste.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients, anyone can become a culinary hero in their kitchen.
Versatile Options: Adapt the protein or serve with various sides to suit every palate.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for family dinners or gatherings, Chicken Paprikash is bound to impress!
Chicken Paprikash Ingredients
Discover the key components that make this Chicken Paprikash a comforting masterpiece.
For the Chicken
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks and thighs – Ideal for rich flavor; can substitute with boneless, skinless thighs for quicker cooking.
- Salt & pepper – Essential for seasoning; enhances the overall taste of the dish.
For the Sauce
- Olive oil – Perfect for searing the chicken and contributing depth of flavor.
- Butter – Adds a lovely richness to the sauce.
- Onion (1 large, diced) – Brings sweetness and depth through caramelization.
- Red bell pepper (1, diced) – Imparts sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
- Tomato (1 large, diced) – Adds moisture and a touch of acidity for balance.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Infuses the sauce with aromatic and savory notes.
- Tomato paste (1 tablespoon) – Intensifies the umami flavor throughout.
- Hungarian sweet paprika (3 tablespoons) – The star of the dish, providing authentic flavor and vibrant color.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon) – Adds a subtle smokiness for depth.
- Hot paprika (½ teaspoon) or cayenne pepper (pinch) – Optional for a tweak of heat depending on your preference.
- Chicken broth (2 cups) – The liquid base that imbues the dish with flavor during simmering.
For Thickening and Creaminess
- All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons) – Helps achieve the desired thick consistency of the sauce.
- Sour cream (¾ cup) – Introduces creaminess and a delightful tang to the dish.
- Lemon (1 small, juice of) – Brightens the flavors for an added zing.
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, minced, optional) – A touch of freshness to finish off the dish beautifully.
With these ingredients combined, you’ll be well on your way to creating a sumptuous Chicken Paprikash that’s sure to become a family favorite!
How to Make Chicken Paprikash
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Season the chicken with salt and pepper. In a large pot, sear the chicken in hot olive oil and butter for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This will add a beautiful flavor base to your dish.
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Remove the chicken from the pot. In the same pot, add the diced onions and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they are softened and slightly caramelized. This adds sweetness to the sauce.
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Stir in the diced red bell pepper, tomato, and minced garlic. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant, allowing all those delicious aromas to meld together beautifully.
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Mix in the tomato paste and all the paprikas (sweet and smoked). Cook for about 1 minute to let the spices bloom, making the sauce rich and flavorful.
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Pour in the chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, which will enhance the depth of flavors.
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Return the chicken to the pot, cover, and simmer on low heat for approximately 45 minutes until the chicken is tender and cooked through. That’s when the real magic happens!
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Take out the chicken and whisk together the sour cream and all-purpose flour in a separate bowl. Then, incorporate this mixture into the sauce to thicken it, placing the chicken back in for an additional 10 minutes.
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Finish by squeezing lemon juice into the sauce and taste to adjust seasoning as desired. Garnish with minced parsley and serve warm, allowing the beautiful colors and aromas to delight your senses.
Optional: Serve with egg noodles, dumplings, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Chicken Paprikash Variations
Feel free to explore new flavors and textures with these delightful twists that invite your creativity!
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Pork Swap: Use pork shoulder or pork chops instead of chicken for a hearty alternative that pairs beautifully with paprika.
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Vegetarian Delight: Substitute chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini for a comforting plant-based meal that retains richness.
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Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to elevate the heat level and awaken your taste buds.
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Creamy Mushroom: Toss in sautéed mushrooms before simmering to enrich the sauce with an earthy flavor and extra texture.
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Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor with fresh herbs like thyme or oregano during cooking for a bright herbal note.
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Smoky Flavor Boost: Increase the amount of smoked paprika for a deep, smoky essence that adds complexity to your dish.
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Dumpling Swap: Instead of traditional sides, try serving your Paprikash with homemade or store-bought dumplings for a cozy, hearty experience.
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Serve Over Quinoa: Swap egg noodles for quinoa for a nutritious and gluten-free alternative that absorbs the delicious sauce.
With these variations, you can create a new Chicken Paprikash experience each time!
Expert Tips for Chicken Paprikash
- Quality Paprika Matters: Use high-quality Hungarian sweet paprika to truly capture the authentic flavor of Chicken Paprikash—it makes all the difference!
- Simmering Time: If opting for boneless chicken, adjust the cooking time to 25-30 minutes to prevent dryness while still ensuring tenderness.
- Flavor Development: Allow the dish to rest for a few hours or overnight; the spices deepen and develop, enhancing your Chicken Paprikash.
- Avoid Curdling: To incorporate sour cream without curdling, temper it by mixing it with a bit of the hot sauce before adding it to the pot.
- Check for Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, gradually add more flour or allow it to simmer a bit longer after adding the sour cream.
- Creative Variations: Mix in different proteins, like pork or tofu, and serve with a variety of sides to keep your meals exciting and adaptable!
Storage Tips for Chicken Paprikash
Room Temperature: Do not leave Chicken Paprikash out for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage; always refrigerate leftovers promptly.
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheating before serving ensures the dish remains delightful and flavorful.
Freezer: Chicken Paprikash freezes well for up to 3 months. Freeze in individual portions for easy meals—just thaw and reheat!
Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftover Chicken Paprikash, gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess.
What to Serve with Chicken Paprikash?
Creating a cozy meal is all about the perfect pairings that enhance the heartwarming experience of Chicken Paprikash.
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Egg Noodles: These soft, pillowy noodles soak up the rich sauce beautifully, making every bite comforting and satisfying.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy paprika sauce, crusty bread adds a wonderful texture contrast and is great for sopping up every last drop.
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Crispy Roasted Potatoes: The golden, crispy exterior complements the tender chicken while adding a satisfying crunch that balances the dish’s creaminess.
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Sautéed Green Beans: Fresh, tender green beans provide a pop of color and a refreshing crunch, perfectly brightening up the richness of Chicken Paprikash.
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Zesty Cucumber Salad: This cool, tangy salad offers a delightful contrast to the warm dish, keeping the palate refreshed with each bite.
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Hungarian White Wine: A glass of this light, crisp wine pairs wonderfully with the flavors of Chicken Paprikash, elevating your dining experience and inviting a touch of tradition.
Make Ahead Options
Chicken Paprikash is a fantastic dish for meal prep, allowing busy cooks to savor its comforting flavors without the last-minute rush. You can season and sear the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, then refrigerate it to maintain its quality. Prepare the sauce (minus the sour cream) and store it separately for up to 3 days in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, whisk in the sour cream and flour, and simmer until the chicken is warmed through. This way, you’ll enjoy the same comforting taste of Chicken Paprikash with minimal effort on your hectic weeknight!
Chicken Paprikash Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for Chicken Paprikash?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, go for bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks and thighs. They add depth and richness to the dish. However, if you prefer convenience, boneless, skinless thighs work as well—just remember they will cook faster, requiring about 25-30 minutes instead of 45 minutes.
What’s the best way to store leftover Chicken Paprikash?
Very easy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stovetop to keep its creamy texture intact.
Can I freeze Chicken Paprikash, and if so, how?
Definitely! Chicken Paprikash freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. To freeze, let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags for convenient servings. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.
What if my sauce is too thin?
No worries! If you find your Chicken Paprikash sauce is thinner than you’d like, you can thicken it by whisking a bit more flour with a splash of cold water, then slowly mixing it into the simmering sauce while it cooks for an additional 5-10 minutes. This will create that rich, velvety texture we all love.
Is Chicken Paprikash safe for people with dietary restrictions?
Great question! Check your spices, especially paprika, to ensure they don’t contain allergens. For those with dairy sensitivities, you can substitute sour cream with a non-dairy alternative or omit it completely—just keep in mind the sauce will be less creamy. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you have specific allergies or intolerances.
Delicious Chicken Paprikash: Your New Comfort Food Hero
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper. In a large pot, sear the chicken in hot olive oil and butter for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the pot. In the same pot, add the diced onions and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the diced red bell pepper, tomato, and minced garlic. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Mix in the tomato paste and all the paprikas. Cook for about 1 minute to let the spices bloom.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Return the chicken to the pot, cover, and simmer on low heat for approximately 45 minutes until the chicken is tender.
- Take out the chicken and whisk together the sour cream and all-purpose flour in a separate bowl. Incorporate this mixture into the sauce to thicken it, placing the chicken back in for an additional 10 minutes.
- Finish by squeezing lemon juice into the sauce and taste to adjust seasoning. Garnish with minced parsley and serve warm.