Chicken Paprikash

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting meal that warms your heart and fills your home with delightful aromas, then you need to try this Chicken Paprikash! This recipe is a beloved favorite in my household, bringing the rich flavors of Hungarian cuisine right to our dinner table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, Chicken Paprikash is always a hit. The creamy sauce combined with tender chicken creates a dish that feels both special and satisfying.

This chicken dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. You can have it simmering away while you catch up with loved ones or tackle other tasks around the house. Trust me, once you taste this flavorful dish, it will become a staple in your cooking repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can get this comforting dish on the table without fuss.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the creamy and rich flavor of Chicken Paprikash, making it perfect for all ages.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead for busy nights!
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice, noodles, or with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that delicious sauce.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients that make up this delightful Chicken Paprikash. You’ll find everything you need right here!

For the Chicken

• 2 lbs chicken thighs and legs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 tbsp paprika OR Hungarian paprika (depending on how much spice you like)
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For Cooking

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 cup sweet onion, chopped
• 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
• 2 cups low sodium chicken stock

For the Sauce

• 1 cup sour cream

Variations

The beauty of Chicken Paprikash lies in its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: If you’re in the mood for something different, try using boneless chicken breasts or even turkey.
• Add veggies: Stir in some bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes along with the cayenne for an added kick.
• Dairy-free option: Substitute sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt for a lighter version.

How to Make Chicken Paprikash

Step 1: Prepare the Flour Mixture

Start by combining flour, 2 tablespoons of paprika, sea salt, and black pepper in a bowl. This mixture is key because it not only coats the chicken but also helps thicken our delicious sauce later on. Depending on your spice tolerance, choose between regular paprika for mildness or Hungarian paprika for more heat. Dredge each piece of chicken well in this mixture—don’t forget to save any leftover flour!

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

In a large Dutch oven or skillet over medium-high heat, add vegetable oil. Once hot, carefully place the dredged chicken pieces into the pot. Let them brown for about three minutes per side until they develop a lovely golden crust. This step adds depth to the dish’s flavor! After browning, remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté Onions

In the same pot, add chopped onions along with cayenne pepper and remaining paprika. Sauté until the onions are tender—this should take about two minutes. The onions will soak up all those wonderful flavors left behind from browning the chicken!

Step 4: Simmer Together

Return the browned chicken back into the pot and pour in low sodium chicken stock. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to low. Cover and let it simmer gently for about 45 minutes until your chicken is cooked through and juicy!

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Once your chicken is perfectly cooked, it’s time to create that luscious sauce! In the bowl with leftover flour, combine sour cream with half a cup of liquid from your skillet until smooth. Add this mixture back into the pot and let it simmer for another five minutes while stirring occasionally. You want that sauce to develop a beautiful pale orange color—taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

And there you have it! A warm bowl of homemade Chicken Paprikash ready to be enjoyed by family and friends alike.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Paprikash

Creating the perfect Chicken Paprikash is all about the little details, and these tips will help you elevate your dish to new heights!

• Choose the Right Paprika: Opt for Hungarian paprika if you’re looking for authentic flavor. It adds a sweet, smoky essence that truly defines this dish.
• Don’t Skip Browning the Chicken: Browning the chicken adds depth of flavor to your dish. This step creates a rich base that enhances the overall taste of your paprikash.
• Use Low Sodium Chicken Stock: This allows you to control the saltiness of the final dish. You can always add more salt later, but it’s hard to take it out once it’s in!
• Thicken with Care: When mixing the sour cream with flour, ensure there are no lumps. A smooth mixture will help create a velvety sauce that clings beautifully to your chicken.
• Taste as You Go: Adjusting seasoning throughout cooking ensures you achieve the perfect balance of flavors. Don’t be afraid to tweak it according to your preferences!

How to Serve Chicken Paprikash

Serving Chicken Paprikash is as enjoyable as making it! The creamy sauce and tender chicken look beautiful on any table, and it’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, balancing out the richness of the dish.
• Sour Cream Dollop: A small dollop of sour cream on top before serving enhances creaminess and provides a beautiful visual contrast.

Side Dishes

• Egg Noodles: Classic egg noodles are fantastic for soaking up that luscious sauce. Cook them al dente for a delightful texture that pairs perfectly with Chicken Paprikash.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies not only adds nutrition but also brings vibrant colors to your plate, complementing the rich hues of the paprikash.
• Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad with a tangy dressing offers a refreshing crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy chicken, making each bite exciting.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread for sopping up every last drop of sauce. It’s a comforting addition that turns every meal into an experience!

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll have everyone at your table raving about your delicious Chicken Paprikash! Enjoy every moment spent in your kitchen creating this unforgettable meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Paprikash recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious home-cooked meals throughout the week. Its rich flavors develop even more after a day in the fridge, making it an ideal dish to prepare in advance.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Chicken Paprikash to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Ensure the Chicken Paprikash has cooled to room temperature.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen Chicken Paprikash in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, warm on the stove over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, stirring halfway through until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Chicken Paprikash that might help you while preparing this dish.

What is Chicken Paprikash?

Chicken Paprikash is a traditional Hungarian dish made with chicken braised in a rich sauce of paprika and sour cream. It’s known for its vibrant flavor and creamy texture.

How can I make my Chicken Paprikash spicier?

To add more spice to your Chicken Paprikash, use Hungarian paprika instead of regular paprika. You can also increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the recipe according to your taste preference.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes! While traditional Chicken Paprikash uses bone-in thighs and legs for added flavor, you can substitute chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since breasts may cook faster.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Paprikash is truly a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to any table. The combination of tender chicken and a creamy sauce infused with paprika makes it a family favorite. I hope you have fun making this recipe and enjoy every bite! Don’t hesitate to share your experience or drop any questions you might have—happy cooking!