Chicken Paprikash is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, a rich paprika-infused sauce, and creamy sour cream for a meal that feels like a warm hug in every bite.
What is Chicken Paprikash?
Chicken Paprikash is a traditional Hungarian dish characterized by its generous use of paprika—a spice that holds a revered place in Hungarian cuisine. The dish typically features bone-in chicken, simmered in a luscious sauce made with onions, garlic, sweet or smoked paprika, and sour cream. Served over egg noodles, spaetzle, or rice, it’s a meal that embodies the hearty and rustic flavors of Central Europe.
Why You’ll Love Chicken Paprikash
- Rich and Creamy: The sauce is velvety and packed with flavor.
- Family-Friendly: Mild yet flavorful, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients.
- Versatile: Easy to customize with different proteins, spices, or sides.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Chicken Paprikash
- Use High-Quality Paprika: Paprika is the star of the show, so invest in authentic Hungarian sweet paprika. You can also add a touch of smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky undertone.
- Bone-In, Skin-On Chicken: Opt for thighs and drumsticks for the best flavor. The bones and skin contribute richness to the sauce.
- Don’t Rush the Onions: Sauté the onions slowly until they’re golden and soft. This step builds the foundation for the sauce’s depth of flavor.
- Temper the Sour Cream: Mix a small amount of the hot sauce into the sour cream before adding it to the pot. This prevents curdling and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
- Simmer, Don’t Boil: Keep the heat low when cooking the chicken to maintain its tenderness.
Delicious Variations
While the traditional recipe is unbeatable, you can adapt Chicken Paprikash to suit your preferences or dietary needs:
- Vegetarian Paprikash: Swap the chicken for mushrooms, tofu, or chickpeas for a plant-based alternative.
- Cream-Free Version: Use coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free take on the dish.
- Spicy Paprikash: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot paprika for a fiery kick.
- Additional Veggies: Stir in bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to add more nutrients and texture.
How to Serve Chicken Paprikash
Chicken Paprikash is typically served with a starchy side to soak up the sauce. Here are a few classic and creative options:
- Nokedli (Hungarian Dumplings): These soft, eggy dumplings are the traditional pairing.
- Egg Noodles: Wide, buttery noodles are a popular choice and readily available.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base.
- Rice or Quinoa: For a gluten-free option, pair the dish with fluffy rice or nutty quinoa.
- Crusty Bread: Mop up every last drop of sauce with a slice of rustic bread.
How to Store and Reheat Chicken Paprikash
Chicken Paprikash is a fantastic make-ahead meal. Here’s how to store and reheat it:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: The dish freezes well, but omit the sour cream before freezing and add it after reheating to maintain the sauce’s creaminess.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Chicken Paprikash
Chicken Paprikash is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, a rich paprika-infused sauce, and creamy sour cream for a meal that feels like a warm hug in every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 to 2 ½ pounds chicken thighs and drumsticks
- Kosher salt
- 2–3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 pounds yellow onions, sliced (about 2–3 large onions)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons sweet paprika (preferably Hungarian)
- 1 teaspoon hot paprika or cayenne (optional, for heat)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup sour cream
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Generously sprinkle chicken pieces with kosher salt and let them sit at room temperature.
- Prep the Onions: Slice onions lengthwise into thin strips.
- Brown the Chicken: Heat butter in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Pat chicken dry, place skin-side down, and cook for 4–5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook another 2–3 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Cook the Onions: In the same pan, sauté onions until lightly browned, about 7 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the chicken.
- Add Paprika: Stir in sweet paprika, hot paprika (if using), and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to bloom the spices.
- Deglaze the Pan: Add chicken broth, scraping up the flavorful bits from the bottom. Nestle chicken pieces back into the pan on top of the onions.
- Simmer: Cover and simmer on low for 20–25 minutes, or until chicken reaches 165°F (or falls off the bone if cooked longer).
- Finish the Sauce: Remove chicken and set aside. Stir sour cream into the sauce, seasoning with salt to taste. If needed, gently heat to warm through. Return chicken to the pan and coat with sauce.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
6Amount Per Serving Calories 939Total Fat 76gSaturated Fat 38gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 35gCholesterol 390mgSodium 568mgCarbohydrates 18gFiber 3gSugar 8gProtein 52g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
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Final Thoughts
Chicken Paprikash is more than just a meal—it’s an invitation to slow down, savor the process of cooking, and enjoy a dish that has stood the test of time. Whether you’re recreating a cherished family recipe or exploring Hungarian cuisine for the first time, this dish is sure to become a staple in your rotation. With these tips, tricks, and variations, you’re ready to craft the perfect bowl of Chicken Paprikash that’s bursting with flavor and love.
