Creamy and Flavorful Hungarian Chicken Paprikash

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Hungarian Chicken Paprikash (or Paprikás Csirke) is a beloved dish known for its rich flavors, creamy sauce, and signature paprika seasoning. Made with tender chicken simmered in a sauce of onions, bell peppers, and lots of Hungarian paprika, this traditional recipe is comforting, hearty, and satisfying. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch, Chicken Paprikash is typically served with dumplings or noodles, soaking up all the delicious sauce. Let’s dive into this authentic, flavorful dish!

Hungarian Chicken Paprikash Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 2–3 pounds bone-in, skinless chicken thighs and drumsticks
  • 2 tablespoons Hungarian sweet paprika (preferably authentic for best flavor)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added depth)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the Paprika and Chicken: Add the paprika to the skillet, stirring quickly to coat the onions and peppers without burning the paprika. Place the chicken pieces in the skillet and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Simmer with Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is partially submerged in the liquid. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  4. Make the Sour Cream Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the sour cream with the flour until smooth. This will help thicken the sauce and add creaminess.
  5. Add Sour Cream Mixture: Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Slowly stir in the sour cream mixture until fully combined. Return the skillet to low heat, letting the sauce thicken without boiling.
  6. Serve and Garnish: Once the sauce is thickened to your liking, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot over dumplings, egg noodles, or rice.

Tips for the Best Chicken Paprikash

  • Use Authentic Hungarian Paprika: For the best flavor, use high-quality Hungarian sweet paprika. It’s the key ingredient for authentic taste.
  • Don’t Skip the Sour Cream: Sour cream adds a unique tang and creamy texture that makes this dish special.
  • Avoid Boiling After Adding Sour Cream: Heat the sauce gently after adding the sour cream to prevent curdling.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Paprikash is traditionally served with nokedli (Hungarian dumplings), but it’s also delicious over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the flavorful sauce!

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