Creamy Chicken Paprikash Recipe

Introduction

Chicken Paprikash is a classic Hungarian dish known for its rich, comforting flavors. This simple recipe combines tender chicken with the smoky warmth of paprika and creamy sour cream for a hearty meal that’s perfect any night of the week.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds chicken pieces (thighs or drumsticks work well)
• 2 tablespoons paprika (preferably Hungarian sweet paprika)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
• 1 cup chicken broth or water

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat oil or butter in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Step 2: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, seasoning them 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 everything without burning the paprika.
4. Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth or water, cover the pan, and let the chicken simmer gently for 30-40 minutes until cooked through and tender.
5. Step 5: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the sour cream until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Step 6: Serve the chicken paprikash hot, ideally over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Tips & Variations

• For extra depth, try adding a crushed garlic clove while sautéing the onions.
• Use smoked paprika for a richer, smoky flavor.
• Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream if you prefer a tangier sauce.
• Add a tablespoon of tomato paste with the paprika to give a subtle tomato undertone.
• Serve with traditional Hungarian dumplings called nokedli or simple buttered noodles.

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. If frozen, it’s best to freeze without sour cream and add it fresh after reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may dry out more easily. Cook them gently and avoid overcooking to keep the meat tender.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, include a pinch of cayenne pepper when adding paprika or add a chopped hot pepper along with the onions.

Creamy Chicken Paprikash Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 75 reviews

Chicken Paprikash is a traditional Hungarian dish featuring tender chicken cooked in a rich, creamy paprika sauce with onions and sour cream, delivering a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for any occasion.

• Author: Dylan
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4-6 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Hungarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 4 lb whole chicken, cut into pieces

Spices and Flavorings

• 2 tbsp sweet Hungarian paprika
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil or lard
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth or water

Finishing

• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken and Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil or lard in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Cook the Chicken with Paprika: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and brown on all sides for about 8-10 minutes. Sprinkle the sweet Hungarian paprika over the chicken and onions, stirring well to coat the chicken evenly without burning the paprika.
3. Add Liquid and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth or water to partially cover the chicken. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the skillet. Simmer gently for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
4. Incorporate Sour Cream and Thicken Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the sour cream with flour (if using) to prevent curdling. Remove the skillet from heat and slowly stir in the sour cream mixture into the sauce. Return to low heat, stirring constantly until the sauce is creamy and slightly thickened. Do not boil once sour cream is added to avoid separation.
5. Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the Chicken Paprikash hot, traditionally accompanied by egg noodles, spaetzle, or mashed potatoes.

Notes

• Use sweet Hungarian paprika for authentic flavor; smoked paprika will change the profile.
• Adding a tablespoon of flour to the sour cream creates a thicker sauce but is optional.
• Do not boil after adding sour cream to prevent curdling.
• Leftovers taste better the next day as flavors meld.
• Can substitute chicken broth with water if necessary but broth enriches the taste.

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