Chicken Paprikash (Paprikás Csirke) is a beloved Hungarian comfort dish known for its rich, creamy paprika-infused sauce and tender, braised chicken. It’s traditionally served with nokedli (Hungarian dumplings), egg noodles, or even rice—making it a perfect heartwarming meal for cozy nights.
This dish is all about simplicity and deep flavor. Sweet Hungarian paprika is the star here, adding warmth and depth to the creamy sauce without overpowering the dish. With just a few staple ingredients and one pot, you’ll have a rustic European dinner that’s both easy and impressive.
📝 Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken thighs or drumsticks (bone-in, skin-on or skinless)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp sweet Hungarian paprika
- 1 tbsp flour (for thickening)
- 1½ cups chicken broth
- ½ cup sour cream
- Salt & pepper to taste
Optional for serving:
- Egg noodles, rice, or dumplings
- Fresh parsley for garnish
👨🍳 Instructions:
1. Brown the chicken:
Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then brown it on both sides (about 4–5 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté onions and garlic:
In the same pot, reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent and golden (about 6–8 minutes). Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
3. Add paprika and flour:
Remove the pot briefly from heat and stir in the paprika and flour. This prevents the paprika from burning and turning bitter. Return to heat and mix well.
4. Deglaze and simmer:
Pour in the chicken broth gradually, stirring constantly to form a smooth sauce. Bring to a simmer, then return the chicken to the pot.
5. Cook until tender:
Cover and simmer on low for 35–45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Finish with sour cream:
Remove chicken from heat. Stir in the sour cream gently to create a rich, creamy sauce. Do not boil after adding sour cream to avoid curdling.
7. Serve and enjoy:
Serve over egg noodles, rice, or dumplings, and garnish with parsley if desired.