Delicious Chicken Paprikash Recipe
If you’re searching for a cozy and satisfying dish, you’ve found the perfect recipe with Chicken Paprikash. This Hungarian classic is brimming with flavor, bringing together succulent chicken pieces and luscious paprika sauce that make your taste buds dance with joy. Not only is it an ultimate comfort food, but it’s also quick and easy to prepare, making it a staple for weeknight dinners.
Growing up, our family reunions were never complete without a large pot of Chicken Paprikash bubbling away in the kitchen. My grandmother would tell stories of how this hearty dish was passed down through generations, always managing to bring everyone together around the dining table. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a cherished family tradition that brings warmth and love to whoever gathers to share it.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out for its simplicity and depth of flavor. With only a handful of ingredients, it delivers an intense taste profile driven by the rich, smoky paprika that gives it both color and character. Perfect for busy individuals, you will appreciate that it uses just one pot, cutting down on cleanup. It’s also a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your personal dietary preferences, whether you’re looking for something spicy, creamy, or vegan-friendly.
Ingredients Notes
You’ll need tender chicken pieces, preferably thighs, for a juicy result. The star ingredient is genuine Hungarian sweet paprika, so hunt for high-quality options as it defines the dish’s flavor. If unavailable, smoked paprika can be a decent substitute. Sour cream adds creaminess and a touch of tang, but Greek yogurt can work as a lighter alternative.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Begin by seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper. In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chicken with a drizzle of oil until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Step 2
Add finely chopped onions to the same pot and sauté until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and paprika, cooking for another minute to enhance their flavors.
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Step 3
Pour in chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot to release extra flavor. Return the chicken pieces to the pot and bring to a simmer.
Step 4
Lower the heat and let it cook gently for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5
To finish, mix in sour cream and unsalted butter for a silky sauce. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary, and serve over egg noodles or rice.
Storage Options
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions of Chicken Paprikash in zip-lock bags. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then warm up on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. Stir in a splash of chicken broth if the sauce thickens too much.
Variations & Substitutions
For a heartier meal, try adding potatoes or mushrooms to the pot during cooking. Vegetarians can swap out chicken for hearty tofu or a mix of your favorite vegetables. To boost spice levels, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or sliced hot peppers. Opt for coconut cream instead of sour cream if you’re looking for a dairy-free version.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish in advance? Absolutely! Chicken Paprikash is one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day as the flavors intensify. Prepare it a day ahead and gently reheat on the stove before serving for best results.
Is it necessary to use bone-in chicken? While bone-in chicken does add a deeper flavor to the sauce, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well too if you prefer easier serving and cleaner dining. Adjust cooking time slightly since boneless pieces cook faster.
How spicy is Chicken Paprikash? The heat level in Chicken Paprikash is generally mild due to the sweet paprika. However, you can adjust the spice to your liking by adding spicy paprika or a pinch of chili flakes during the cooking process.
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Delicious Chicken Paprikash Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lb chicken breast cut into chunks
- 1 large onion diced
- 2 tbsp paprika use sweet Hungarian paprika for best flavor
- 1 cup sour cream for creamy sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 0.5 tsp salt or to taste
- 0.25 tsp black pepper freshly ground
- 2 cloves garlic minced
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until translucent.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are lightly browned on all sides.
- Stir in the garlic and paprika, cooking for another minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 30 minutes.
- Stir in the sour cream. Simmer uncovered for another 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
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