Chicken Paprikash is one of those classic dishes that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. This creamy, paprika-infused chicken dish is a traditional Hungarian favorite that brings together simple, hearty flavors. Perfect for a family dinner, this dish pairs wonderfully with rice, dumplings, or egg noodles.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This Chicken Paprikash is everything you want in comfort food: tender chicken simmered in a rich, smoky, and creamy sauce. It’s a simple recipe with pantry staples but feels so special when served at the dinner table. Plus, it’s versatile, forgiving, and perfect for feeding a hungry family or cozying up with leftovers the next day.
Ingredients
Here’s a quick list of what you’ll need to get started. Note that the full ingredient list will be at the end!
- Chicken pieces (breasts, thighs, or a whole chicken cut into pieces)
- Sweet paprika
- Smoked paprika (optional, but adds extra flavor)
- Tomato paste
- Chicken broth
- Sour cream
- Onion
- Garlic
- Olive oil or vegetable oil
- All-purpose flour
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
You can find the full, detailed list of quantities at the bottom of this post.
Directions
Making Chicken Paprikash is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps:
- Prep the chicken: Season your chicken pieces with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat your pot over medium heat and add oil. Toss in the onions and garlic, and cook until fragrant and softened.
- Add the paprika: Stir in sweet paprika (and smoked paprika, if desired) and let it cook for about 30 seconds to bloom the flavor.
- Add tomato paste: Mix in the tomato paste and cook for another minute.
- Add the chicken and broth: Add your seasoned chicken to the pot along with the chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is tender.
- Thicken the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk the sour cream with a tablespoon of all-purpose flour until smooth. Slowly stir the mixture into the pot and let it simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the sauce is creamy and thickened.
- Garnish & serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot over rice, dumplings, or egg noodles.
Expert Tips and Tricks
Here are a few tips to help you perfect this recipe:
- Use quality sweet paprika for the best flavor—it’s the star ingredient!
- Don’t rush the simmering. Letting the chicken cook gently ensures tender, flavorful meat.
- Add a splash of white wine to the broth for a deeper, more complex flavor.
- Want more veggies? Toss in carrots or bell peppers during the simmering stage for added color and flavor.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
This recipe is versatile and forgiving! Here are some ways to mix it up:
- Swap the protein: Use pork tenderloin, turkey, or even tofu for a different spin on this dish.
- Vegetable add-ons: Try adding mushrooms, green beans, or spinach for a veggie-packed variation.
- Change the side: While rice and dumplings are traditional, try mashed potatoes or crusty bread instead.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This dish pairs perfectly with freshly baked crusty bread or homemade egg noodles. A light green salad with a simple vinaigrette makes a great, refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken paprikash. Don’t forget a glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio—its crispness balances the creamy sauce beautifully.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your leftovers tasting just as good:
- Store: Allow leftovers to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Gently reheat on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to keep the sauce smooth. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave until hot.
4 FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Chicken Paprikash tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen and meld.
2. Can I use low-fat sour cream?
Absolutely! It works just as well if you’re looking for a lighter option.
3. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce while simmering.
4. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the chicken and aromatics first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker and let it cook for 6-8 hours on low.
Conclusion
Chicken Paprikash is a recipe you’ll come back to time and time again. It’s cozy, comforting, and incredibly satisfying—perfect for family dinners, Sunday nights, or when you just need a little taste of something homey and classic. I hope this recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen as it has in mine!
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Authentic Chicken Paprikash Recipe: A Cozy Family Favorite
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Hungarian
Description
This Authentic Chicken Paprikash is a rich and hearty Hungarian classic featuring tender chicken simmered in a creamy paprika-infused sauce. It’s perfect for a comforting family dinner that’s both flavorful and satisfying, served best with dumplings or noodles to soak up the luscious sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or lard
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 pounds bone-in chicken pieces (thighs and drumsticks)
- 2 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra depth)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat oil or lard in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until golden and softened.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the skillet. Brown the chicken on all sides, about 6–8 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low. Sprinkle sweet paprika and smoked paprika over the chicken and stir to coat, ensuring the paprika doesn’t burn.
- Pour in the chicken broth, cover, and simmer for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- In a small bowl, whisk the sour cream with the flour until smooth. Gradually stir the mixture into the skillet. Cook uncovered for another 5–7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Use high-quality Hungarian paprika for an authentic flavor.
- Avoid boiling the sauce after adding sour cream to prevent curdling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 125mg