Hungarian Chicken Paprikash, or csirkepaprikás, is one of Hungary’s most iconic dishes. This hearty, flavorful stew combines tender chicken with a rich, paprika-spiced sauce. Paprikash is not only a symbol of Hungarian cuisine but also a deeply comforting meal. It’s known for its simplicity, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual weekend meal.
Here’s how you can make authentic Hungarian Chicken Paprikash at home in five simple steps.
1. Gather Your Ingredients
Hungarian Chicken Paprikash doesn’t require exotic ingredients. The focus is on fresh, high-quality produce, particularly Hungarian sweet paprika, which gives the dish its distinct flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4-6 chicken thighs or drumsticks (bone-in and skin-on for extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons Hungarian sweet paprika (avoid smoked paprika)
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
- 1 bell pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- 1 tablespoon flour (optional for thickening)
Serve Hungarian Chicken Paprikash with traditional Hungarian nokedli (dumplings) or buttered egg noodles to soak up the rich sauce.
2. Start with the Aromatics
Begin by heating vegetable oil or butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onions. Sauté them until they become soft and translucent, which will take about 5-7 minutes. The onions are the base of the sauce, so take your time to ensure they release their sweetness.
After the onions are softened, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. At this point, you can add the optional diced bell pepper, which provides extra sweetness and texture to the dish.
3. Add Paprika for That Signature Flavor
Now comes the star ingredient: Hungarian sweet paprika. Paprika is the heart and soul of Hungarian Chicken Paprikash, lending its vibrant red color and subtle heat to the dish. Turn off the heat before adding the paprika to avoid burning it, which can make it bitter.
Stir in two heaping tablespoons of paprika into the onion mixture, allowing the spices to bloom in the residual heat. Once the paprika has melded with the onions, turn the heat back on low and stir until everything is well combined.
4. Brown the Chicken and Simmer
Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. If you’re using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks, the fat will render out, enhancing the flavor of the sauce.
Add the seasoned chicken to the pot, skin side down, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is browned. Flip the chicken and cook for another 5 minutes to brown the other side. Browning the chicken not only adds flavor but also ensures the meat stays tender while simmering.
Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is mostly submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for 30-40 minutes. The chicken will become incredibly tender and soak up all the smoky, sweet flavors of the paprika and onions.
5. Finish with Sour Cream for Creaminess
Once the chicken is cooked through, you’ll want to add the final touch—sour cream. This ingredient is what makes Chicken Paprikash so luscious and comforting.
Before stirring in the sour cream, temper it by mixing it with a bit of the hot sauce from the pot. This prevents the cream from curdling when it hits the hot liquid. Once tempered, stir the sour cream back into the sauce.
If the sauce is too thin for your liking, you can thicken it with a tablespoon of flour mixed into the sour cream. Cook the mixture for an additional 5 minutes to ensure the sauce reaches a velvety, creamy consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Hungarian Chicken Paprikash is best served with traditional Hungarian nokedli or dumplings, but buttered egg noodles or mashed potatoes are excellent substitutes. The key is to have something that can soak up the flavorful paprika sauce.
Top the dish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness, and serve it with a side of crusty bread to mop up the remaining sauce.
Tips for Perfect Hungarian Chicken Paprikash
- Use Hungarian Sweet Paprika: Authentic flavor comes from high-quality Hungarian sweet paprika, which you can find in specialty stores or online. Avoid smoked paprika, as it gives the dish a different flavor profile.
- Bone-in Chicken: Bone-in chicken adds depth to the sauce, making it richer and more flavorful. You can use boneless chicken, but the bones help create a more authentic texture.
- Tempering Sour Cream: To avoid curdling, always temper your sour cream before adding it to the sauce.
Conclusion
Hungarian Chicken Paprikash is a dish that embodies the essence of comfort food, with its simple ingredients and warm, soothing flavors. This classic dish is perfect for cozy dinners, and the rich paprika sauce, paired with tender chicken, will make it a favorite in your household.
By following these five key steps, you’ll master the art of Hungarian Chicken Paprikash in no time, bringing a taste of Hungary into your kitchen!