Amid the swirling aromas of my kitchen, the sight of sizzling chicken in a rich, crimson sauce always transports me to a cozy Hungarian eatery. Authentic Chicken Paprikash is a warm embrace—the kind of creamy comfort food that makes even the busiest evenings feel special. This hearty stew, known for its tender chicken and the delightful depth of sweet paprika, will have you longing for every last bite. One of the best parts? It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with loved ones. Plus, it pairs beautifully with traditional nokedli or spaetzle, ensuring you’re never short on indulgence. Ready to bring a taste of Hungary to your dinner table? Let’s dive into the deliciousness of Chicken Paprikash!
Why is Chicken Paprikash so comforting?
Rich, Creamy Sauce: The luxurious combination of sour cream and sweet paprika envelops tender chicken, creating a dish that’s pure comfort in a bowl.
Flavor Explosion: Each spoonful bursts with the deep, authentic flavors of Hungarian cuisine thanks to high-quality paprika and the savory aroma of sautéed onions and garlic.
Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe caters to both novice cooks and seasoned chefs, making dinner effortless after a long day.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Ideal for family gatherings or cozy dinners, Chicken Paprikash promises to impress any crowd, much like my Vegan Orange Chicken or Mexican Chicken Rice.
Versatile Pairing: Serve it over nokedli, spaetzle, or even mashed potatoes—this dish adapts to your grain of choice, allowing for delicious customization every time!
Chicken Paprikash Ingredients
• Discover the essentials for a delicious Chicken Paprikash with these key ingredients.
For the Chicken
- Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken – Provides maximum flavor and moisture. Substitution: Use boneless chicken breasts, reducing cooking time.
For the Sauce
- Hungarian Sweet Paprika – Essential for flavor; gives the dish its signature taste. Note: Authenticity is key; use genuine Hungarian paprika.
- Lard – Adds depth to the sauce. Substitution: Butter can be used for a lighter flavor.
- Sour Cream – Offers creaminess and richness to the stew. Note: Avoid curdling when reheating.
- Onions – Used for aromatic base and sweetness. Note: Sauté until translucent for best flavor.
- Garlic – Enhances savory notes. Note: Freshly minced works best.
- Chicken Broth – Gives body to the sauce. Note: Use low-sodium for better control of saltiness.
- Salt & Pepper – For seasoning to taste.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Paprikash
Step 1: Prep Chicken
Begin by seasoning your bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. This ensures great flavor throughout the dish. Set the seasoned chicken aside while you prepare the rest of the ingredients. Prepping your chicken first allows the seasonings to penetrate the meat, enhancing the overall flavor of the Chicken Paprikash.
Step 2: Sauté Onions
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of lard over medium heat. Once the lard is melted and shimmering, add the chopped onions, cooking them for about 5-7 minutes until they are soft and translucent. This step creates a fragrant base for your Chicken Paprikash, releasing the natural sweetness of the onions and adding depth to the stew.
Step 3: Add Garlic
With the onions softened, stir in 2-3 minced garlic cloves. Cook the garlic for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning. This quick addition will elevate the flavor profile of your Chicken Paprikash, making the aromatic mixture irresistible and filling your kitchen with a delightful scent.
Step 4: Brown Chicken
Next, add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pot, skin-side down, and brown for about 4-5 minutes per side. You want a nice golden-brown crust to develop, which enhances the flavor of the Chicken Paprikash. This process locks in the juices, keeping your chicken tender and flavorful throughout the cooking time.
Step 5: Add Paprika
Once the chicken is browned, quickly sprinkle approximately 2 tablespoons of Hungarian sweet paprika over the chicken. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly, cooking for about 1 minute until the paprika becomes fragrant. This vital step infuses the dish with its characteristic color and flavor, ensuring your Chicken Paprikash is authentic and tasty.
Step 6: Pour in Broth
Carefully pour in about 4 cups of chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any flavorful bits stuck to the pan. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. You should see gentle bubbles forming. This simmering stage is crucial to meld the flavors, setting the stage for tender chicken.
Step 7: Simmer
Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow the Chicken Paprikash to cook for about 40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is tender. The gentle cooking will allow flavors to develop beautifully while keeping the chicken moist and juicy.
Step 8: Finish Sauce
After the chicken is cooked through, remove the pot from heat and stir in about 1 cup of sour cream until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Gently adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This final touch transforms your Chicken Paprikash into a rich, velvety stew, perfect for soaking up with nokedli or spaetzle.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Paprikash
Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Paprikash in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on low, stirring to maintain creaminess in the sauce.
Freezer: Freeze Chicken Paprikash in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.
Reheating: When reheating, do so slowly on low heat to avoid curdling the sour cream. Stir frequently and consider adding a splash of broth to smoothen the sauce.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy with freshly cooked nokedli or spaetzle when reheated, restoring that comforting and creamy flavor that makes Chicken Paprikash so delightful.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Chicken Paprikash in advance is a game-changer for busy weeknights! You can season the chicken and sauté the onions and garlic up to 24 hours ahead of time, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can mix the sour cream in separately before serving to maintain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply brown the prepped chicken, proceed with the recipe, and stir in the sour cream at the end. This way, you enjoy the same delicious, comforting flavors without the rush, making weeknight dinners a breeze!
Expert Tips for Chicken Paprikash
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Quality Paprika: Use genuine Hungarian sweet paprika for the best flavor. Lower quality may result in a bland sauce that lacks authenticity.
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Prevent Curdling: When adding sour cream, ensure it’s warmed slightly. This helps to avoid curdling when mixed into the hot sauce.
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Cook on Low: After adding the chicken broth, simmer on low heat. High temperatures can make the chicken tough and dry, compromising the dish’s tenderness.
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Let It Sit: For richer flavors, allow the Chicken Paprikash to sit covered for about 15 minutes before serving. This lets the ingredients meld beautifully.
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Proper Browning: Don’t rush the browning step; a good sear locks in juices and gives the chicken a delicious flavor base.
What to Serve with Authentic Chicken Paprikash
Imagine a cozy family dinner where each dish complements the next, creating an unforgettable culinary experience.
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Nokedli: These soft, egg-dough dumplings are the traditional choice for soaking up the rich, creamy sauce, enhancing every bite.
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Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf provides the perfect texture for dipping and mopping up the luscious sauce, ensuring none goes to waste.
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Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans add a fresh, crunchy contrast, balancing the dish’s richness while bringing a pop of color to your plate.
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Pickled Cucumbers: Their tangy flavor cuts through the creaminess, providing a zesty accompaniment that refreshes the palate between bites.
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Buttered Egg Noodles: Serviced with a touch of butter, these noodles create a comforting base, making every mouthful cozy and inviting.
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Hungarian Red Wine: Pairing a glass of smooth red wine enhances the meal, deepening the flavors while setting a warm, welcoming tone for your gathering.
Let your dinner become a delightful celebration of flavors and textures, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied and happy!
Chicken Paprikash Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to take your Chicken Paprikash to the next level by making it your own with these delightful twists!
- Lighter Option: Swap lard for olive oil for a healthier fat alternative, while maintaining a lovely flavor profile.
- Going Boneless: Use boneless chicken thighs for an even quicker cooking experience; they stay juicy and tender in the sauce.
- Creamy & Vegan: Substitute sour cream with vegan alternatives like cashew cream for a plant-based version that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers during the sautéing step for a pop of color and sweetness; it enhances both texture and taste!
- Heat Factor: Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little spice to your creamy dish.
- Flavor Fusion: Experiment by incorporating a splash of white wine into the broth for an extra layer of depth, enhancing the dish’s overall richness.
- Serving Suggestions: If you’re running low on nokedli, serve over buttered egg noodles or even mashed potatoes for a cozy alternative.
- Herb Infusion: Sprinkle in fresh parsley or chives just before serving for a burst of freshness and color that complements the dish beautifully.
For more creative chicken recipes, check out my Chopped Chicken Bacon or try the savory Bang Bang Chicken for an exciting twist.
Chicken Paprikash Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Chicken Paprikash?
I highly recommend using bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces for maximum flavor and moisture. The bones add richness to the sauce, while the skin helps create a wonderful sear. If you’re in a pinch, boneless chicken breasts can work too, but remember to adjust the cooking time to avoid drying them out.
How should I store leftover Chicken Paprikash?
You can store any leftover Chicken Paprikash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool down before sealing it up. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it gently on low to prevent the creamy sauce from curdling.
Can I freeze Chicken Paprikash?
Absolutely! You can freeze Chicken Paprikash in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. When reheating, do so on low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to resume its creamy texture.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If you find your Chicken Paprikash sauce is thicker than you’d like, don’t worry! Just add a bit of low-sodium chicken broth or water. Stir it in gradually until you reach your desired consistency. This will help to keep the flavors balanced while bringing back that lovely creamy texture.
Is Chicken Paprikash suitable for those with allergies?
Chicken Paprikash is generally safe for most people, but if you or your guests have specific dietary restrictions, such as lactose intolerance, you might want to substitute the sour cream with a lactose-free alternative or a vegan sour cream. Always check ingredient labels to be sure, as allergies to certain components can vary.
Can I use other vegetables in my Chicken Paprikash?
Very! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to enhance the flavor and nutrition of your Chicken Paprikash. Just sauté them along with the onions before adding the chicken. This will allow them to infuse more flavor into the dish while contributing a colorful touch!
Hearty Chicken Paprikash: A Taste of Hungarian Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper and set aside.
- Heat lard in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onions for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add seasoned chicken pieces to the pot and brown for 4-5 minutes per side.
- Sprinkle paprika over the chicken, stir well, and cook for about 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40 minutes until chicken is tender.
- Stir in sour cream until the sauce is smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.