Hungarian Chicken Paprikash, or Paprikás Csirke, is a classic dish from Hungary that showcases the rich, smoky flavors of sweet paprika. This comforting stew features tender chicken simmered in a creamy, paprika-infused sauce, often served with dumplings or buttered noodles. With its vibrant red hue and deep, savory aroma, Chicken Paprikash is a dish that warms the heart and satisfies the soul.
This recipe brings an approachable twist to a traditional favorite, making it easy to prepare while preserving its authentic essence. Whether you’re new to Hungarian cuisine or simply looking for a flavorful, hearty meal, Chicken Paprikash is an excellent choice for family dinners, celebrations, or even casual gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Flavors: Captures the essence of Hungarian cuisine with its bold use of sweet paprika.
- Hearty and Comforting: A warm, satisfying dish perfect for cooler days or when you crave something cozy.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pairs well with noodles, rice, or bread, making it adaptable to your preferences.
- Family-Friendly: Mild yet flavorful, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Nutrient-Packed: Features wholesome ingredients like chicken, onions, and bell peppers.
- Simple to Make: Easy-to-follow steps make this dish accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Preparation Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 380
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 23g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
Ingredients
For the Chicken Paprikash
- 2 tbsp olive oil or sunflower oil
- 2 lbs chicken thighs (skin-on and bone-in) or drumsticks
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tbsp sweet Hungarian paprika (or smoked paprika, if desired)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- ½ cup sour cream (or plain yogurt)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- A dollop of sour cream
For Serving
- Egg noodles, dumplings, or rice
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces skin-side down and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper.
- Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Step 4: Add Paprika and Flour
- Stir in the paprika and flour, coating the vegetables evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the paprika.
- Step 5: Deglaze the Pan
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Step 6: Add Tomatoes and Chicken
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, then return the chicken to the pan.
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 35-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Step 7: Incorporate Sour Cream
- Remove the chicken pieces and set aside.
- Whisk the sour cream into the sauce until smooth. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken.
- Step 8: Serve and Garnish
- Return the chicken to the pan, spooning the sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and a dollop of sour cream.
- Serve hot with your choice of egg noodles, dumplings, or rice.
Ingredient Background
- Chicken Thighs: The dark meat provides rich flavor and stays tender during cooking. Bone-in chicken adds depth to the broth.
- Hungarian Paprika: Sweet paprika is the star ingredient, giving the dish its signature flavor and color.
- Sour Cream: Adds a creamy tang that balances the smoky, savory flavors of the paprika.
- Bell Peppers: Contribute sweetness and texture, complementing the smoky paprika.
- Onion and Garlic: These aromatics form the flavorful base of the dish.
Technique Tips
- Use High-Quality Paprika: Authentic Hungarian paprika makes a significant difference in flavor. Avoid substitutes like generic paprika blends.
- Toast the Paprika: Cooking the paprika briefly with the vegetables enhances its depth and aroma.
- Thicken Gradually: Whisking the sour cream into the sauce off the heat prevents curdling and ensures a smooth consistency.
- Choose the Right Pot: A heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven is ideal for even heat distribution and slow cooking.
- Simmer, Don’t Boil: Keep the heat low to maintain tenderness in the chicken and prevent the sauce from scorching.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
- Casserole Style: Arrange the cooked chicken in a baking dish, cover with sauce, and bake for 10 minutes at 375°F.
- Individual Bowls: Serve each portion in individual bowls with a side of buttered noodles for a cozy, plated meal.
- Family-Style Platter: Place the chicken and sauce in a large serving dish, surrounded by noodles or dumplings for sharing.
- Gourmet Garnishes: Top with crispy fried shallots or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an elevated presentation.
Additional Tips for Success
- Bone-In Chicken: Bone-in pieces yield more flavor than boneless cuts.
- Adjusting the Sauce: If the sauce becomes too thick, thin it with a splash of chicken broth.
- Reheat Gently: When reheating, use low heat to maintain the sauce’s creamy consistency.
- Make Ahead: Chicken Paprikash tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with roasted cauliflower or mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
- Spicy Paprikash: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot paprika for a kick of heat.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute sour cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free alternative.
- Lighter Version: Use skinless chicken breasts and plain yogurt instead of sour cream for a lower-fat dish.
- Herbaceous Twist: Add fresh dill or tarragon for a unique herbal note.
Freezing and Storage
- Freezing: Allow the dish to cool completely, then store in airtight containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Storing Leftovers: Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Healthier Twist Ideas
- Low-Fat Alternative: Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream to reduce fat content.
- Extra Veggies: Add zucchini, spinach, or peas to boost the vegetable content.
- Whole-Grain Pairing: Serve with whole-grain noodles or brown rice for added fiber.
- Reduced Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and season with fresh herbs instead of extra salt.
Serving Suggestions for Events
- Dinner Party: Serve with fresh bread, a side of cucumber salad, and a Hungarian dessert like Dobos Torte for a complete meal.
- Casual Family Dinner: Pair with buttered noodles and steamed green beans for a simple, balanced meal.
- Holiday Gatherings: Present the dish in a decorative casserole dish with parsley garnish for an eye-catching centerpiece.
Special Equipment
- Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Skillet: For even cooking and excellent heat retention.
- Whisk: Useful for incorporating sour cream smoothly into the sauce.
- Tongs: Handy for turning and removing chicken pieces.
- Ladle: For easy serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, boneless chicken works, but bone-in pieces add more flavor to the sauce. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! It reheats well and tastes even better as the flavors meld. - What can I use instead of sour cream?
Plain Greek yogurt, coconut cream, or cashew cream are great substitutes. - Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, Chicken Paprikash freezes well. Just thaw and reheat gently to avoid curdling the sauce. - What side dishes go well with this?
Buttered egg noodles, rice, or dumplings are traditional, but mashed potatoes or crusty bread also work wonderfully. - Can I use smoked paprika instead of sweet paprika?
Yes, smoked paprika adds a deeper, smoky flavor, though it changes the dish slightly. - Is this dish spicy?
Traditionally, it’s mild, but you can add cayenne pepper or hot paprika for heat. - Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the flour with a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or rice flour.
Conclusion
Hungarian Chicken Paprikash is a timeless dish that embodies the rich culinary heritage of Hungary. Its creamy, paprika-infused sauce and tender chicken make it a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for any occasion. Whether served with noodles, dumplings, or rice, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds and warm your soul. With its simple preparation and versatile ingredients, Chicken Paprikash is a recipe you’ll return to time and again. Enjoy the authentic flavors of Hungary in the comfort of your home!
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Hungarian Chicken Paprikash Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Paprikash
- 2 tbsp olive oil or sunflower oil
- 2 lbs chicken thighs (skin-on and bone-in) or drumsticks
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tbsp sweet Hungarian paprika (or smoked paprika, if desired)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- ½ cup sour cream (or plain yogurt)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- A dollop of sour cream
For Serving
- Egg noodles, dumplings, or rice
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces skin-side down and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper.
- Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Step 4: Add Paprika and Flour
- Stir in the paprika and flour, coating the vegetables evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the paprika.
- Step 5: Deglaze the Pan
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Step 6: Add Tomatoes and Chicken
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, then return the chicken to the pan.
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 35-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Step 7: Incorporate Sour Cream
- Remove the chicken pieces and set aside.
- Whisk the sour cream into the sauce until smooth. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken.
- Step 8: Serve and Garnish
- Return the chicken to the pan, spooning the sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and a dollop of sour cream.
- Serve hot with your choice of egg noodles, dumplings, or rice.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5
- Fat: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g