Indulge in the comforting taste of chicken paprikash, a classic dish from Hungary that brings together tender chicken and a rich, flavorful sauce. This recipe captures the essence of this beloved meal, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. With its vibrant colors and mouthwatering aroma, chicken paprikash is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation for this delightful dish!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Based on a serving size of one chicken thigh with sauce, here is the nutritional value per serving:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 26g
– Fat: 24g
– Carbohydrates: 8g
– Fiber: 1g
This value is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Brown the chicken thighs on both sides, about 5 minutes each, then remove from the skillet.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet, sauté until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute.
- Add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and cook for 30 minutes.
- Remove the chicken and stir in the sour cream until smooth.
- Return the chicken to the sauce, allowing it to heat through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
If you want to lighten the dish, you can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt. For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken paprikash pairs beautifully with egg noodles, rice, or a fresh green salad. A side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover chicken paprikash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using too much paprika can overpower the dish.
- Not browning the chicken can lead to a less flavorful sauce.
- Overcooking the chicken can make it dry.
- Forgetting to season the sauce may result in bland flavors.
- Using low-fat sour cream can affect the creamy texture.
Helpful Tips
- Always use sweet paprika for the best flavor.
- Let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking for the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
- Adjust the amount of garlic based on your preference.
FAQs
What type of paprika should I use?
Using sweet paprika is recommended for chicken paprikash, as it provides the rich flavor characteristic of the dish. Avoid using smoked paprika unless you want a different flavor profile.
Can I make chicken paprikash ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare chicken paprikash a day in advance. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors develop. Just reheat gently before serving.
Is chicken paprikash spicy?
No, traditional chicken paprikash is not spicy. It is flavored with sweet paprika, which gives it a rich taste without heat. You can add chili powder if you prefer some spice.
What can I serve with chicken paprikash?
Chicken paprikash is best served with egg noodles, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. A fresh salad complements the dish nicely.
Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs or breasts. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken remains tender and juicy.
Conclusion
Chicken paprikash is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken create a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. With this recipe, you can easily recreate a classic Hungarian favorite and share it with family and friends. Enjoy the flavors and the smiles it brings!

Chicken Paprikash Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs bone-in, skin-on
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 bell pepper chopped
- 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Brown the chicken thighs on both sides, about 5 minutes each, then remove from the skillet.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet, sauté until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute.
- Add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and cook for 30 minutes.
- Remove the chicken and stir in the sour cream until smooth.
- Return the chicken to the sauce, allowing it to heat through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.