Chicken Paprikash Recipe

Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes  

   Prep Time: 25 minutes

Chicken Paprikash Ingredients

Chicken Paprikash Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs and drumsticks dry with paper towels, then season them all over with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until the butter is melted and foaming.
  3. Add the chicken pieces, skin side down, and brown them in batches for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden. Remove the browned chicken to a plate and set aside.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the finely sliced onions to the pot and sauté, stirring frequently, for 8-10 minutes until they are soft and golden but not browned.
  5. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
  6. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika, 1 teaspoon hot Hungarian paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, mixing well to coat the onions and garlic. This prevents the paprika from burning and turning bitter.
  7. Return the pot to medium heat. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring to combine and break down the tomatoes slightly.
  8. Return the browned chicken pieces to the pot, nestling them into the onion and tomato mixture, skin side up. Add 1 cup chicken stock and 1 bay leaf, ensuring the chicken is partially submerged but the skin remains above the liquid.
  9. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 35-40 minutes, turning the chicken once halfway through, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
  10. While the chicken simmers, in a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup room temperature sour cream, 1/4 cup heavy cream, and 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour until smooth and lump-free.
  11. Once the chicken is cooked, remove the chicken pieces to a plate and tent loosely with foil to keep warm. Discard the bay leaf from the sauce.
  12. Ladle about 1/2 cup of the hot sauce from the pot into the sour cream mixture, whisking constantly to temper it and prevent curdling.
  13. Slowly pour the tempered sour cream mixture back into the pot, stirring constantly. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over low heat and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens and becomes silky.
  14. Return the chicken pieces to the pot, spooning sauce over them, and simmer gently for another 2-3 minutes to heat through and meld the flavors.
  15. Stir in 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, taste, and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  16. Transfer the chicken and sauce to a serving platter or individual plates. Garnish with 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley before serving.

Estimated Calories: 335, Servings: 4

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Chicken Paprikash Story

Serving my version of this dish was like handing someone a familiar book with a new cover. I expected nods of recognition, but instead, my friend's reaction was a page-turner. She paused after the first bite, her eyes wide, as if she had stumbled upon a secret chapter. She declared it the best she had ever tasted, which felt like winning a prize in a contest I did not know I had entered. Her words lingered, echoing in my mind like a catchy tune that refuses to fade.
Her response was not just a compliment; it was a spark that lit up the room. She asked for the recipe with the urgency of someone searching for a lost treasure, eager to recreate the magic at home. She marveled at how something so delicious could be so easy and quick to prepare, comparing it to finding a shortcut on a long and winding road. The idea that a healthy meal could also be so good seemed to surprise her, as if she had discovered a hidden gem in a well-traveled city.
That moment stayed with me, much like a favorite photograph tucked into a wallet. It reminded me that sharing food is like sharing a story, and sometimes the greatest impact comes from the most unexpected reactions. Her delight made me realize that a fast and simple meal can leave a lasting impression, and that the joy of cooking is not just in the making, but in the memories it creates.

About Chicken Paprikash Recipe

If you're searching for the best and most authentic way to enjoy a classic comfort food, this Hungarian Chicken Paprikash recipe is exactly what you need! This dish is famous for its rich, creamy sauce and bold flavors, making it a favorite for anyone who loves delicious, homemade meals. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you'll be amazed at how quick it is to prepare this tasty recipe right in your own kitchen. Whether you're new to Hungarian cuisine or a seasoned pro, you'll love learning how to make this perfect dish that's bursting with flavor.
One of the best things about this Chicken Paprikash recipe is how easy it is to follow, even for beginners. The combination of tender chicken, sweet paprika, and a creamy sauce creates a mouthwatering meal that's both comforting and satisfying. If you're wondering how to make this dish truly authentic, don't worry-we've got all the tips and tricks you need! From choosing the right ingredients to mastering the cooking technique, you'll discover just how simple it is to create a homemade masterpiece that tastes just like the traditional version.
For anyone looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea, this Hungarian favorite is the perfect choice. The recipe uses easy-to-find ingredients and comes together in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. With our helpful tips, you'll achieve the best results every time, ensuring your Chicken Paprikash is always tasty and satisfying. Don't miss out on the chance to impress your family and friends with this easy, authentic, and absolutely delicious recipe-give it a try and experience the magic of homemade Hungarian cuisine!

Storage Tips

When it comes to storage, think of Chicken Paprikash as a cherished book you want to keep in pristine condition. The best way to preserve its delicious flavors is to tuck it away in an airtight container, much like placing a valuable novel in a protective sleeve. This easy step ensures that the recipe remains as healthy and vibrant as the day it was made, keeping out any unwanted odors or moisture that could spoil the story.Shelf life for Chicken Paprikash is like the ticking clock on a library book loan. You have a good window of about three to four days in the refrigerator before the dish starts to lose its charm. If you want to extend the experience, freezing is a great option, much like renewing your favorite book for another round. Just remember, the faster you enjoy it, the more likely you are to savor the quick, fresh taste that makes this recipe so special.Reheating Chicken Paprikash is similar to reviving a classic movie for a new audience. The best method is to gently warm it on the stove, allowing the flavors to come back to life without losing their healthy, delicious appeal. Using a microwave is a fast and easy alternative, but like a rushed film remake, it can sometimes leave the texture less than perfect. Stirring occasionally ensures that every bite is as great as the original, making leftovers feel like a brand new, quick meal.

Healthy Chicken Paprikash Tips

Making your favorite Hungarian Chicken Paprikash recipe healthier is like tuning up a classic car for better mileage without losing its vintage charm. Swap out heavy sour cream for Greek yogurt or a plant-based alternative-think of it as using premium fuel for your engine, boosting health benefits while keeping the sauce creamy and delicious. Opt for skinless chicken breast instead of thighs, much like choosing a lighter frame for a race car, reducing unnecessary fats but maintaining the best, authentic flavor. When selecting ingredients, go for fresh paprika and load up on colorful bell peppers, which act as the high-performance parts, adding vitamins and antioxidants for a health boost.
Transforming this homemade dish into a health-conscious meal is as simple as upgrading your kitchen tools for efficiency. Use whole grain noodles or cauliflower rice instead of traditional egg noodles, mirroring the switch from regular tires to eco-friendly ones-supporting your health without sacrificing taste. For a quick and easy approach, sauté onions and garlic in olive oil rather than butter, ensuring your recipe remains tasty and light. These small tweaks are the perfect tips for anyone wondering how to make the best, healthy Chicken Paprikash at home, ensuring every bite is both satisfying and good for your well-being.

Chicken Paprikash History

Imagine the cultural origins of Chicken Paprikash as a well-worn family quilt, stitched together from the best and brightest threads of Hungarian history. Just as a quilt tells stories through its patterns, this recipe weaves together the influences of the Magyars, the Ottomans, and the rolling plains of the Carpathian Basin. The dish became a symbol of home and comfort, much like a good story passed down through generations, offering a delicious taste of identity that is both easy to love and quick to recognize as uniquely Hungarian.
The evolution of Chicken Paprikash is like watching a river carve its path through a landscape, adapting and changing course with each generation. What started as a simple, hearty meal for farmers became a great canvas for culinary creativity, with each cook adding their own twist. Over time, the recipe has become more than just a meal; it is a living tradition, as flexible and adaptable as a good pair of shoes, always ready to walk the line between healthy home cooking and indulgent comfort food.
Regional adaptations of Chicken Paprikash are like different dialects of the same language, each with its own accent and flair. In some areas, cooks might add a splash of cream for richness, while others keep it light and fast for a healthy, easy weeknight dinner. These variations are a testament to the dish's versatility, proving that the best recipes are those that can travel, adapt, and still taste delicious no matter where you find them. Like a favorite song covered by many artists, each version brings something new while honoring the original melody.