If you’ve ever wondered how to make chicken paprikash, you’re in for a treat. This classic Hungarian dish is beloved for its rich, creamy paprika sauce and tender chicken, making it a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this step-by-step guide will show you how to create authentic chicken paprikash right at home.
What Is Chicken Paprikash?
Chicken paprikash, or paprikás csirke in Hungarian, is a traditional dish featuring chicken simmered in a luscious sauce made with plenty of paprika, onions, garlic, and sour cream. The paprika gives the dish its signature vibrant red color and a deep, smoky flavor that’s both comforting and satisfying. It’s often served over egg noodles, spaetzle, rice, or mashed potatoes, making it a hearty meal that warms you from the inside out.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a classic chicken paprikash, gather these simple but flavorful ingredients:
– Bone-in chicken thighs or legs (about 2 pounds)
– 4 tablespoons butter (divided)
– 1 large onion, diced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 tablespoons Hungarian paprika (preferably sweet or hot)
– 1 cup chicken stock or broth
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Hungarian paprika is key here—it’s more flavorful and slightly spicy compared to regular paprika, and it really makes the dish shine.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Chicken Paprikash
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Melt half of the butter in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and brown it for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Don’t worry if the chicken isn’t fully cooked at this point; you’ll finish cooking it in the sauce. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside.
2. Cook the Onions and Garlic
Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining butter to the skillet. Toss in the diced onions and cook them until soft and translucent, around 5-7 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and paprika, cooking for about 1 minute to release their flavors. This step is crucial to build the rich base of your sauce.
3. Make the Sauce and Simmer
Pour in the chicken stock and the cornstarch slurry to the skillet, stirring well to combine. Return the chicken pieces to the pan, bringing everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the skillet. Let it cook gently for 15-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
4. Finish with Sour Cream
Remove the skillet from heat and take out the chicken temporarily. Stir the sour cream into the sauce to create a creamy, tangy finish. Then add the chicken back into the sauce, warming it through gently without boiling (to prevent the sour cream from curdling).
5. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your chicken paprikash over a bed of egg noodles, spaetzle, rice, or mashed potatoes. For a low-carb twist, try it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Paprikash
– Use bone-in chicken: Dark meat like thighs or legs stays juicy and flavorful during the long simmer.
– Don’t skip the paprika: Hungarian paprika is the heart of this dish. If you can’t find it, mix regular paprika with a bit of smoked paprika for depth.
– Low and slow: Simmering gently allows the flavors to meld and the chicken to become tender.
– Add sour cream off the heat: This keeps the sauce silky and prevents it from curdling.
– Pair with complementary sides: Spaetzle, egg noodles, or creamy mashed potatoes soak up the sauce beautifully.
Chicken paprikash is a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Its rich, paprika-infused sauce and tender chicken make it a standout meal that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll soon understand why it’s a beloved staple in Hungarian cuisine and beyond.
Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor every bite of this delicious chicken paprikash!