Hungarian Creamy Chicken Paprikash

Chicken Paprikash is a traditional Hungarian dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich, creamy paprika sauce. It’s comforting, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy dinner any time of the year. With a blend of sweet and smoky paprika, onions, and a touch of sour cream, this dish is both hearty and elegant.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, creamy sauce with authentic paprika flavor
• Tender, juicy chicken cooked to perfection
• Perfect for serving with noodles, rice, or potatoes
• Easy to prepare for weeknight dinners or special occasions
• Kid-friendly, yet impressive enough for guests
• Can be made in a single skillet or Dutch oven

Ingredients

• Bone-in, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• Salt and black pepper
• Olive oil or butter
• Onion, finely chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Sweet Hungarian paprika
• Smoked paprika (optional)
• Chicken broth
• Tomato paste
• Sour cream
• All-purpose flour (for thickening)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown chicken on all sides, then remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until soft and fragrant.
4. Stir in paprika and tomato paste, cooking for 1 minute to release the flavors.
5. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Return chicken to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes, until chicken is cooked through.
6. In a small bowl, mix sour cream and flour until smooth. Stir into the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
7. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use skin-on chicken for richer flavor.
• Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a spicier twist.
• Serve with buttered egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice.
• For a lighter version, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt.
• Prepare a day ahead; flavors develop beautifully when reheated.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve over wide egg noodles or rice for a traditional Hungarian meal
• Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables
• Garnish with fresh parsley for color and freshness
• Add crusty bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes! Chicken breasts work well, but adjust cooking time to avoid drying out the meat. Thighs are more forgiving and remain juicy.

Can I make Chicken Paprikash ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dish a day in advance; flavors deepen beautifully when reheated.

What is the best paprika to use?

Use sweet Hungarian paprika for authentic flavor. Smoked paprika can be added for a subtle smoky note.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt or cashew cream to maintain the creamy texture.

Ready to Make It?

Chicken Paprikash is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s easy enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for special occasions. With tender chicken and creamy paprika sauce, it’s a dish your family will love.

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