Creamy Chicken Paprikash Recipe

Introduction

Chicken Paprikash is a classic Hungarian dish known for its rich, creamy sauce and comforting flavors. This easy recipe combines tender chicken with paprika-spiced onion and a smooth sour cream finish, making it perfect for a cozy dinner.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken pieces (thighs or drumsticks recommended)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons paprika (preferably sweet Hungarian paprika)
• 1 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil or butter
• 1 cup chicken broth or water (optional, for simmering)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat oil or butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Step 2: Add the chicken pieces to the pan, seasoning with salt and pepper. Brown the chicken on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.
3. Step 3: Sprinkle the paprika evenly over the chicken and onions, stirring gently to coat without burning the paprika.
4. Step 4: Pour in chicken broth or water to cover the chicken halfway, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. Step 5: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the sour cream until well combined and creamy. Do not boil after adding sour cream to avoid curdling.
6. Step 6: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed, then serve hot, traditionally over egg noodles or rice.

Tips & Variations

• Use sweet Hungarian paprika for authentic flavor, and avoid smoked paprika to keep the traditional taste.
• For a thicker sauce, remove the chicken after cooking and reduce the sauce over medium heat before stirring in sour cream.
• Try adding a minced garlic clove or a splash of white wine for extra depth.

Storage

Store leftover Chicken Paprikash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid curdling the sour cream. It is not recommended to freeze this dish because the sour cream can separate.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness and flavor. If using breast, be careful not to overcook as it can dry out.

What can I serve with Chicken Paprikash?

The dish is traditionally served over egg noodles, but mashed potatoes or rice also make excellent accompaniments.

Creamy Chicken Paprikash Recipe

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Chicken Paprikash is a classic Hungarian comfort dish featuring tender chicken simmered with onions and sweet paprika, finished with creamy sour cream for a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s a warm and hearty stew traditionally served over noodles or dumplings.

• Author: Yana
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Entrée
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Hungarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 4 lbs chicken pieces (thighs and drumsticks recommended)

Spices and Vegetables

• 2 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or lard
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Finishing

• 1 cup sour cream, at room temperature
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken and Onion: Heat the vegetable oil or lard in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Cook Chicken with Paprika: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and sprinkle the sweet Hungarian paprika over everything. Stir to coat the chicken and onions evenly with paprika. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook the chicken until lightly browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Simmer the Paprikash: Add enough water or chicken broth to just cover the chicken pieces. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer gently until the chicken is fully cooked and tender, approximately 35-40 minutes.
4. Make the Sour Cream Sauce: In a separate small bowl, mix the sour cream with flour if using, to create a smooth mixture. Temper the sour cream by slowly adding a few tablespoons of the hot cooking liquid to the mixture while stirring to avoid curdling.
5. Combine Sour Cream and Chicken: Stir the tempered sour cream mixture back into the skillet with the chicken. Heat gently, without boiling, for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
6. Serve: Serve the chicken paprikash hot, traditionally over buttered noodles, spaetzle, or rice.

Notes

• Use sweet Hungarian paprika for an authentic flavor; avoid smoked or hot varieties unless preferred.
• Tempering sour cream prevents it from curdling when added to hot liquids.
• Chicken thighs and drumsticks provide more flavor and stay moist compared to breasts.
• Adjust the gravy thickness by adding or skipping the flour.

Keywords: Chicken Paprikash, Hungarian chicken stew, paprika chicken, creamy chicken dish