Chicken Paprikash

Chicken Paprikash is a classic, soul-warming dish that brings together tender chicken in a rich, creamy paprika sauce. The addition of sour cream adds a velvety texture that complements the deep flavors of the paprika perfectly. Whether served with soft dumplings or simply over rice, this dish is guaranteed to make any meal feel special.

For those looking for a comforting, one-pot dish, Chicken Paprikash is a perfect choice. The recipe is straightforward, easy to follow, and ideal for family dinners or cozy nights in. The slight heat from the paprika paired with the creaminess of the sauce creates a comforting balance that will warm your heart with every bite.

Full Recipe:

2 tablespoons olive oil
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup chicken broth

1/2 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons flour
1 tablespoon butter

1/2 cup chopped parsley for garnish
Dumplings (optional): 1 cup flour, 1 egg, 1/2 cup milk, 1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika, then add to the skillet.

Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add butter, onion, and garlic.
Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.

Stir in flour and paprika to create a roux. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Gradually add chicken broth, stirring to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer.
Stir in sour cream, and then return the chicken to the skillet, simmering for 5 more minutes.

For the dumplings (optional), mix flour, egg, milk, and salt to form a dough. Drop spoonfuls into the simmering sauce and cook for 10 minutes.
Serve the chicken with dumplings, garnished with chopped parsley.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes

Kcal: 520 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

What Makes Chicken Paprikash So Special?

The magic of Chicken Paprikash lies in its unique, flavorful sauce. At the heart of the dish is paprika, a spice that can range from sweet to smoky to hot, depending on the variety used. The sauce is made by combining paprika with other essential ingredients like onions, garlic, chicken broth, and sour cream. The sour cream adds a creamy richness that complements the heat and depth of the paprika, giving the dish its signature smooth and velvety texture.

One of the key aspects of Chicken Paprikash is its ability to bring together multiple flavors without being overly complex. The smoky sweetness of the paprika pairs beautifully with the savory chicken, while the sour cream brings a touch of tanginess that helps balance out the heat. This harmony of flavors creates a dish that feels hearty, satisfying, and comforting all at once.

How to Serve Chicken Paprikash

Traditionally, Chicken Paprikash is served with dumplings, also known as “nokedli” in Hungarian. These soft, pillowy dumplings are the perfect accompaniment to soak up the rich sauce. They’re simple to make and require only a few ingredients—flour, eggs, and water—making them an accessible side dish to accompany the chicken.

If dumplings aren’t your preference, Chicken Paprikash can also be served with egg noodles, rice, or even mashed potatoes. The key is to have something that can absorb the flavorful sauce. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad for added balance.

For a more contemporary twist, some people serve Chicken Paprikash over roasted vegetables or even with crusty bread on the side. These variations offer more texture and enhance the dish’s flavor, allowing you to customize it to your taste.

Why You Should Try Chicken Paprikash

If you haven’t already tried Chicken Paprikash, you’re missing out on a dish that perfectly captures the essence of comfort food. Here are a few reasons why you should give it a try:

Rich and Flavorful: The combination of paprika and sour cream creates a sauce that’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor.
Versatile: Whether served with dumplings, noodles, or rice, this dish can be adapted to fit your personal preferences.
Easy to Make: Despite its complex flavor, Chicken Paprikash is surprisingly simple to prepare, making it perfect for both experienced cooks and beginners alike.

Comforting: It’s the perfect meal for cold weather or whenever you’re craving something hearty and filling.
Authentic: If you’re looking to explore Hungarian cuisine, Chicken Paprikash is an excellent place to start. It embodies the flavors of Hungary and is a beloved dish in many Central European countries.

Customizing Chicken Paprikash

While the traditional Chicken Paprikash recipe is fantastic on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your tastes. If you enjoy a spicier dish, you can add a bit of cayenne pepper or hot paprika to the sauce for an extra kick. Alternatively, for a milder dish, you can stick to sweet paprika, which adds flavor without much heat.

You can also experiment with different cuts of chicken. While boneless skinless chicken breasts are commonly used, bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks can add even more depth of flavor to the dish. Bone-in cuts tend to stay juicier and more flavorful as they cook, resulting in a more robust sauce.

For those following dietary restrictions, Chicken Paprikash can easily be made gluten-free by substituting flour with a gluten-free alternative. Similarly, if you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangy yet creamy base.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Paprikash

To ensure your Chicken Paprikash turns out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips:

Use good quality paprika: The flavor of paprika is central to this dish, so it’s important to use a high-quality paprika. Look for Hungarian or Spanish paprika for the best results.
Don’t overcook the chicken: While the chicken should be cooked through, overcooking it can make it dry. Cook it just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and remove it from the pan to avoid drying it out.

Simmer gently: Once you add the sour cream to the sauce, be careful not to bring it to a rapid boil. High heat can cause the sour cream to curdle, so simmer it gently to maintain the smooth texture of the sauce.
Let the dish rest: After serving, allow the Chicken Paprikash to sit for a few minutes. This resting time helps the flavors meld together and enhances the overall taste.

Conclusion

Chicken Paprikash is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting and flavorful dish that brings a taste of Hungary to your table. With its rich paprika sauce and tender chicken, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy your hunger and warm your soul. Whether you’re cooking it for the first time or perfecting your technique, Chicken Paprikash is a dish that never disappoints.

By following this simple yet flavorful recipe, you can create a dish that’s rich in history and full of heart. Customize it to fit your personal tastes, and serve it with a side of dumplings or noodles for a truly authentic experience. No matter how you choose to serve it, Chicken Paprikash is sure to become a family favorite and a go-to meal for any occasion.