Chicken Paprikash Recipe

When it comes to comforting classics, the Chicken Paprikash Recipe stands tall as one of Hungary’s most beloved dishes. Known for its rich paprika-infused sauce, tender chicken, and creamy finish, this dish has earned a place at family tables around the world. Much like the hearty tradition found in Classic Beef Stroganoff Recipe, chicken paprikash is a recipe that blends deep flavors with soul-soothing comfort.

The magic of the Chicken Paprikash Recipe lies in its simplicity. Basic ingredients like chicken, onions, paprika, and sour cream come together to create a dish that’s anything but ordinary. Its vibrant red hue and smoky aroma instantly transport you to the heart of Hungarian kitchens, where recipes are passed down through generations. Similar to the balance of flavors in Skillet Spanish Garlic Shrimp Recipe, this dish proves that you don’t need complicated steps to achieve bold, memorable taste.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, the Chicken Paprikash Recipe can be served over noodles, rice, or even creamy mashed potatoes. Its versatility makes it a crowd-pleaser, much like pairing comfort with creativity in Pot Roast with Mashed Potatoes. Whether you’re discovering Hungarian cuisine for the first time or bringing back childhood memories, this recipe is a flavorful journey worth taking.

Origins of Chicken Paprikash Recipe

The Chicken Paprikash Recipe traces its roots to Hungary, where paprika became a cornerstone of national cuisine in the 18th century. Paprika was introduced to Europe from the New World, and Hungary quickly embraced it, transforming simple chicken stews into rich, flavorful meals. Much like the traditional touches in the Puran Poli Recipe, chicken paprikash is more than food; it’s a cultural symbol that reflects comfort, family gatherings, and regional pride.

Historically, Hungarian families prepared the Chicken Paprikash Recipe in cast-iron pots, slow-simmering chicken with onions, fat, and generous amounts of paprika. The dish’s signature creamy finish was added later with sour cream, creating the velvety sauce it’s famous for today. Similar to how the Amish Monster Cookie Recipe represents a community’s culinary identity, paprikash embodies the essence of Hungarian kitchens passed down through generations.

As Hungarian immigrants moved across Europe and beyond, the Chicken Paprikash Recipe traveled with them, evolving into variations that adapted to local ingredients. Just as recipes like the Lebanon Bologna Recipe showcase the journey of flavors across regions, chicken paprikash became a global favorite cherished for its simplicity, warmth, and deep cultural roots.

Tips and Tricks for Chicken Paprikash Recipe

To get the most authentic flavor in your Chicken Paprikash Recipe, always choose a high-quality sweet or smoked Hungarian paprika. The paprika is the heart of this dish, and using a fresh, vibrant spice makes all the difference. Just as the bold seasoning in the Hot Honey Chicken Recipe transforms a simple dish into something memorable, the right paprika elevates chicken paprikash into a deeply flavorful experience.

When cooking, resist the temptation to rush the simmering process. Allowing the chicken to cook slowly ensures tender meat and a sauce that fully absorbs the smoky, peppery depth of the paprika. Much like the balance of textures in the Chicken Spiedini Recipe, patience in cooking creates layers of flavor that are worth the wait.

For an extra creamy and rich finish, stir in sour cream at the very end; never boil it after adding, or it may curdle. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works beautifully as well. To round out the meal, serve your Chicken Paprikash Recipe over a comforting base like noodles or mashed potatoes, similar to how Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes deliver cozy, complete satisfaction.

Health Benefits of Chicken Paprikash Recipe

The Chicken Paprikash Recipe is not only a comfort food favorite but also offers several nutritional advantages when made with balanced ingredients. Chicken provides lean protein, supporting muscle health and satiety, while paprika delivers antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation. This combination makes the dish hearty yet wholesome, much like the nourishing flavors in Pureed Vegetable Soup Recipe.

Using high-quality ingredients can further boost the health profile of your Chicken Paprikash Recipe. For instance, swapping heavy cream for Greek yogurt adds protein and probiotics, similar to the nutrient-rich benefits of Bariatric Ricotta Bake Recipe. Adding vegetables like bell peppers or tomatoes not only enhances flavor but also increases vitamin and mineral content.

Here’s a quick look at some health benefits of the key ingredients in the Chicken Paprikash Recipe:

With the right preparation, the Chicken Paprikash Recipe can be both a comforting classic and a nutrient-packed dish that fits into a healthy lifestyle.

Variations of Chicken Paprikash Recipe

The beauty of the Chicken Paprikash Recipe is its flexibility, allowing you to adapt it to your taste and available ingredients. Here are some delicious variations to try:

1. Classic Creamy Paprikash – Stick to tradition with chicken, onions, paprika, and sour cream for a rich, velvety sauce, similar to the classic comfort of Pot Roast with Mashed Potatoes.
2. Lightened-Up Version – Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt or a lighter dairy alternative, much like the smart swaps in Pureed Cauliflower Recipe.
3. Spicy Paprikash – Add hot paprika or a pinch of cayenne for extra heat, inspired by the bold kick in the Hot Honey Chicken Recipe.
4. Vegetable-Packed Paprikash – Stir in bell peppers, zucchini, or tomatoes for more color and nutrients, just as the Pureed Carrots Recipe highlights the natural sweetness of veggies.
5. One-Pot Comfort Meal – Serve the chicken paprikash over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes for a hearty dish, much like the cozy pairing in Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes.

No matter which version you try, the Chicken Paprikash Recipe remains a warming, flavorful dish that can be tailored to fit any craving.

Chicken Paprikash Recipe From OoohDelish!

Chicken Paprikash Recipe

This classic Chicken Paprikash Recipe is a Hungarian favorite made with tender chicken simmered in a rich paprika sauce and finished with creamy sour cream. Served over noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, it’s the ultimate comfort food that blends tradition and bold flavor.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Resting Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Chicken Recipes, Dinner

Cuisine: Hungarian

Calories: 410

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 medium onion finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 2 lbs chicken thighs or drumsticks bone-in preferred
• 2 tbsp Hungarian sweet paprika or smoked paprika
• ½ tsp hot paprika or cayenne optional, for spice
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup diced tomatoes optional, for extra flavor
• 1 tsp salt adjust to taste
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt for lighter option
• Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

• 1 Large Skillet or Dutch Oven – for simmering chicken and sauce
• 1 Wooden Spoon – for stirring and preventing sticking
• 1 Mixing Bowl – for combining sour cream or yogurt before adding
• Measuring Cups & Spoons – for precise ingredient amounts

Method

 

1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and garlic, sauté until golden and fragrant.
3. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan. Brown on all sides for 5–7 minutes.
4. Sprinkle in paprika (sweet and hot, if using) and stir to coat the chicken evenly.
5. Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes (if using). Bring to a simmer.
6. Cover and let the chicken cook gently for 25–30 minutes, until tender and cooked through.
7. In a small bowl, mix sour cream with a few spoonfuls of hot sauce from the pan (to temper).
8. Reduce heat to low, then stir in the sour cream mixture to create a creamy, rich sauce. Do not boil after adding.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley.
10. Serve hot over egg noodles, rice, or Mashed Potatoes

Notes

• For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
• Bone-in chicken gives a richer flavor, but boneless thighs also work well.
• Serve with sides like Pureed Cauliflower Recipe or Apple Chickpea Salad for balance.

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