Name: Irresistible Chicken Paprikash: A Cozy Hungarian Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken (Select these for maximum flavor and moisture retention.); 2 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika (Essential for authentic flavor.); 2 tablespoons lard (Traditional fat for richness.); 1 medium onion (Finely chopped.); 3 cloves garlic (Minced.); 4 cups chicken broth (Low-sodium is a great alternative.); 1 cup sour cream (Can swap with Greek yogurt.); to taste salt; to taste pepper; as needed nokedli or egg noodles (Traditional choices that soak up the sauce.)

The rich aroma of sautéing onions and sweet paprika whisked me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where comfort food came alive in colorful, heartwarming dishes. Today, I’m excited to share my take on Authentic Chicken Paprikash—a Hungarian chicken stew that wraps you in warmth with its creamy, savory goodness. This recipe is not just quick to prepare, but it’s also a delightful crowd-pleaser that instantly elevates any dinner. Imagine serving this hearty stew over tender nokedli or egg noodles, allowing the velvety sauce to soak in with every bite. If you’re ready to leave fast food behind and embrace uplifting home-cooked meals, this Chicken Paprikash is the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings. Are you curious to experience the comforting taste of Hungary in your own kitchen? Let’s get started!

Why is Chicken Paprikash a must-try?

Comforting Creaminess: Each bite of this Chicken Paprikash delivers a velvety sauce that warms your soul, making it the ultimate comfort food.
Flavor Explosion: The unique combination of sweet paprika and tender chicken infuses every forkful with robust flavor, perfectly complemented by the tang of sour cream.
Quick Cooking: With just a few prep steps, you can enjoy a hearty meal in under an hour—perfect for busy weeknights!
Versatile Pairing: This dish shines alongside traditional nokedli, but don’t hesitate to serve it over egg noodles or even with crusty bread.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this classic Hungarian recipe will impress and satisfy all palates, leaving everyone asking for seconds.
Discover other delicious chicken recipes like Honey Pepper Chicken or Garlic Chicken Gnocchi for a truly exciting meal lineup!

Chicken Paprikash Ingredients

For the Stew

Bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces – Select these for maximum flavor and moisture retention; boneless breasts can be a substitute, just adjust cooking times.
Sweet Hungarian paprika – Essential for achieving the authentic flavor of Chicken Paprikash, so don’t skimp on quality!
Lard – This traditional fat adds richness to the sauce; feel free to use vegetable oil or butter as a substitute if needed.
Onion – Finely chopped, it serves as a foundational flavor, creating sweetness in the dish.
Garlic – Fresh is best, enhancing the overall flavor profile; don’t skip this aromatic miracle!
Chicken broth – Provides the necessary liquid base for the stew; low-sodium broth is a great alternative.
Sour cream – Essential for creamy goodness and a slight tang; mix it in carefully to prevent curdling. You can swap it with Greek yogurt for a lighter take.
Salt and pepper – Simple yet crucial seasonings that elevate the dish’s overall flavor.

For Serving

Nokedli or egg noodles – Traditional choices that beautifully soak up the velvety sauce; crusty bread is also a delightful option!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Authentic Chicken Paprikash

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of lard over medium heat until melted and shimmering. Add 1 finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and enhance the sweetness of the onion, laying a strong flavor foundation for the Chicken Paprikash.

Step 2: Add the Garlic and Paprika
Next, incorporate 3 minced garlic cloves into the pot, cooking for an additional minute until the garlic is fragrant. Carefully stir in 2 tablespoons of sweet Hungarian paprika, ensuring the onion and garlic are well-coated. This step will bring forth the iconic flavor that defines Chicken Paprikash, so give it a good stir until it’s vibrant and aromatic.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Now, add 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces to the pot, skin side down. Allow them to brown for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they have a golden-brown color. This step not only enhances the flavor but also helps seal in the moisture of the chicken, creating a savory richness in your stew.

Step 4: Simmer the Stew
Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Allow the Chicken Paprikash to cook for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is tender and easily pulls away from the bone, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas.

Step 5: Incorporate the Creaminess
Once the chicken is tender, reduce the heat further to low and gently mix in 1 cup of sour cream. Stir slowly to avoid curdling and season with salt and pepper to taste. This step will transform your Chicken Paprikash into a creamy, luscious stew that beautifully coats each piece of chicken.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
After everything is combined, remove the pot from heat and let the stew rest for a few minutes to deepen the flavors. Serve the warm Chicken Paprikash over traditional nokedli, egg noodles, or crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce. You’ll be greeted with a comforting meal that radiates warmth and love.

Chicken Paprikash Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to unleash your creativity and adapt this Chicken Paprikash to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs!

Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with duck or beef for a unique twist on this classic dish. Each variation brings its own depth of flavor which enhances the comforting element of the stew.
Vegetarian Delight: Swap chicken for hearty mushrooms or jackfruit to create a plant-based version that’s just as satisfying. This option is perfect for your veggie-loving friends!
Spice it Up: Increase the heat by adding cayenne pepper or using hot paprika instead of sweet. A little kick adds an exciting flavor dimension that spicy food enthusiasts will adore.
Creamy Alternatives: For a lighter touch, replace sour cream with Greek yogurt, or even cashew cream for a vegan-friendly option. Each alternative still offers a rich creaminess that blends beautifully with the stew.
Flavor Boost: Incorporate roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for an added layer of richness and a pop of color. These ingredients amplify the visual appeal and flavor explosion in your Chicken Paprikash.
Herbaceous Twist: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or dill before serving for a burst of freshness. The aromatic herbs contrast beautifully with the warm, hearty flavors of the stew.
Noodle Variations: Instead of traditional nokedli, try serving over wide rice noodles or gnocchi for a delightful texture change, reminiscent of other comforting dishes like Garlic Chicken Gnocchi.
Citrus Zest: A splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of zest can brighten the flavors, making every bite feel fresh and lively, perfectly complementing the richness of the stew.

Explore these variations and take your Chicken Paprikash on an exciting culinary journey! For more delicious chicken recipes, don’t miss trying out Herb Roasted Chicken for another comforting dinner option.

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken Paprikash preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken in a mixture of sweet Hungarian paprika, lard, onions, and garlic up to 24 hours in advance, enhancing the flavor as it sits in the refrigerator. The sautéed ingredients can also be prepped and stored separately for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply brown the chicken, add the broth, and simmer until tender. Lastly, incorporate the sour cream off the heat to maintain creaminess. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy a comforting Chicken Paprikash with minimal effort when dinnertime rolls around!

Expert Tips for Chicken Paprikash

Choose Quality Paprika: Use authentic Sweet Hungarian paprika for the best flavor. Other varieties might not capture the unique taste of Chicken Paprikash.
Perfect Chicken Texture: Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces to ensure maximum flavor and moisture retention. Avoid overcooking to prevent dryness.
Sour Cream Secrets: Add the sour cream off the heat to avoid curdling. Stir gently for a smooth, creamy texture in your final dish.
Let It Rest: Allow the Chicken Paprikash to sit for a few minutes post-cooking. This resting time enhances the flavors and melds the ingredients beautifully.
Have Fun with Sides: While nokedli is traditional, feel free to experiment with serving over egg noodles or with crusty bread for added texture.

What to Serve with Authentic Chicken Paprikash

Indulging in Chicken Paprikash creates a delightful opportunity to curate a warm, comforting meal experience.

Nokedli Dumplings: These traditional Hungarian dumplings are perfect for soaking up the rich, creamy sauce, enhancing each flavorful bite. The soft texture perfectly contrasts the tender chicken, creating a delightful mouthfeel.
Crusty Bread: A crusty loaf is an essential companion, lending itself to scooping up the delectable stew. Alternatively, slices can be garnished with garlic butter to elevate their flavor profile.
Light Salad: A simple arugula salad, dressed with olive oil and lemon, cuts through the richness of the stew while adding a fresh, peppery note. The crunch brings a refreshing balance to the dish.
Steamed Green Beans: Tender green beans sprinkled with a hint of lemon zest offer a fresh crunch and vibrant color, nicely complementing the creamy chicken stew. This pairing adds brightness to your plate.
Pickled Vegetables: A side of pickled cucumbers or spicy peppers provides a tangy contrast that refreshes the palate after each rich mouthful of Chicken Paprikash. Their crunch adds a fun textural element as well.
Hungarian Red Wine: A glass of robust Hungarian red wine, like Egri Bikavér, beautifully enhances the stew’s flavors and warm spices, making your dinner feel even more authentic.
Apple Strudel: To finish your meal on a sweet note, serve warm apple strudel drenched in cinnamon and sugar. This iconic dessert offers a perfect sweet contrast to the savory main dish.

Serving these accompaniments alongside Chicken Paprikash will not only create a delightful dining experience but also immerse you in the rich flavors of Hungarian cuisine.

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Paprikash

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the stew to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Chicken Paprikash in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth for moisture if needed. Avoid boiling to preserve the creamy texture.

Make-ahead Tips: This dish can be made ahead of time; however, be mindful that the sour cream may slightly separate during reheating. Stir well to recombine before serving.

Authentic Chicken Paprikash Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for Chicken Paprikash?
Absolutely! Bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces are ideal for this recipe. They bring maximum flavor and moisture to the dish, ensuring your Chicken Paprikash has that rich taste. If you prefer boneless chicken breasts, you can use them, but be sure to reduce the cooking time to avoid dryness—around 20-25 minutes should suffice.

How should I store leftovers of Chicken Paprikash?
Very! Store any leftover Chicken Paprikash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s important to let the stew cool completely before sealing it up. This will help retain the savory goodness and prevent any unwanted condensation.

Can I freeze Chicken Paprikash?
Definitely! To freeze Chicken Paprikash, transfer it into a freezer-safe container or zip-top bags, sealing out as much air as possible. It can be safely stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the stew in the refrigerator overnight, and reheat slowly over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth for a deliciously creamy texture.

What should I do if my sour cream curdles in the Chicken Paprikash?
Don’t worry, it happens! If your sour cream curdles, stir the sauce gently off the heat to help recombine it. To avoid curdling in the first place, always add the sour cream gradually after removing the pot from direct heat. This method maintains that luscious creaminess throughout your dish.

Are there any dietary considerations for Chicken Paprikash?
Absolutely! If you or your guests have dairy allergies, substituting the sour cream with non-dairy options like cashew cream or a dairy-free yogurt can work well. The flavors may alter slightly, but it will help accommodate dietary needs. Always be mindful of the ingredients, especially with spices, to ensure allergies are avoided.

Can I use different proteins in Chicken Paprikash?
Very much so! This recipe is versatile. While chicken is traditional, you can experiment with duck or beef for a unique twist. Simply follow the same cooking instructions, adjusting the times depending on the size and type of meat. Enjoy the adventure of creating your own flavorful variations!