Name: Comforting Chicken Paprikash That Warms the Soul
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 2 tblsp vegetable oil (or olive oil for a healthier option); 1 cup Vidalia onion, chopped (yellow onion can be used as a substitute); 1 whole cut up chicken (skin intact) (or skinless pieces for a lighter option); 2 tblsp sweet paprika (use Hungarian sweet paprika for authenticity); 2 cubes chicken bouillon (dissolve in water as needed); 1 cup sour cream (Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter substitute); 4 cups water; 1 cup flour (add more to thicken as desired); 1 tblsp Lawry's seasoning salt (optional); 1 tsp salt (essential for flavor enhancement); 2 large eggs; 1 cup all-purpose flour (consider gluten-free options if necessary)

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On a brisk evening, I found myself yearning for something that could wrap me in warmth—both from the inside and out. Enter Hungarian Chicken Paprikash; this heartwarming dish is a family tradition that delivers a comforting embrace with every spoonful. It features tender chicken cooked until it practically melts off the bone, all cloaked in a rich, creamy sauce that speaks of home and love. Not only is this chicken paprikash incredibly satisfying, but it’s also a one-pot wonder that makes cleanup a breeze. Plus, it’s the perfect way to showcase your cooking skills, impressing family and friends alike. Ready to let your kitchen fill with the inviting aroma of this traditional delight? Let’s dive into the recipe that promises to become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire!

Why is Chicken Paprikash a Must-Try?

Comforting and Hearty: This dish stands out for its ability to provide warmth on chilly evenings, turning a simple dinner into a cherished memory.

One-Pot Wonder: Delight in the simplicity of creating a full meal in just one pot, making both cooking and cleanup a breeze!

Flavors that Whisper Home: With rich paprika and creamy sauce, it offers an authentic taste of Hungarian cuisine, letting you experience its warmth.

Versatile Enjoyment: Customize it with added vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to suit your taste or dietary needs. Consider pairing it with crusty bread or traditional egg noodles for maximum sauce-soaking enjoyment!

A Crowd Pleaser: Serve this dish at gatherings, and watch as your family and friends fall in love with its hearty charm, just like with other favorites such as Garlic Parmesan Chicken or Honey BBQ Chicken.

Chicken Paprikash Ingredients

Discover the essential elements for an authentic chicken paprikash that’ll elevate your home-cooking game!

For the Sauce

Vegetable Oil – Ideal for frying the chicken and building a rich flavor; substitute with olive oil for a healthier option.
Vidalia Onion, Chopped – Adds a touch of sweetness and aroma; yellow onion can be replaced if needed.
Whole Cut Up Chicken (Skin Intact) – Provides moisture and depth of flavor; feel free to use skinless pieces for a lighter dish.
Sweet Paprika – The star ingredient that gives the dish its vibrant taste and color; using Hungarian sweet paprika enhances authenticity.
Chicken Bouillon Cubes – Enrich the broth; one cube per cup of water usually does the trick—adjust to taste.
Sour Cream – This ingredient adds creaminess and a delightful tang; Greek yogurt works as a lighter substitute.
Water – Forms the base for the sauce.
Flour – Use it to thicken the sauce as desired—add more for a creamier consistency.
Lawry’s Seasoning Salt – Optional but great for added flavor; you can omit it or switch to a homemade seasoning blend.
Salt – Essential for enhancing all flavors—don’t skip this!

For the Dumplings

Eggs – Adds structure to the dumpling mixture.
All-Purpose Flour (for Dumplings) – Gives the dumplings their body; consider gluten-free alternatives if necessary.

With every ingredient carefully chosen, your chicken paprikash will come together beautifully, bringing warmth and comfort into your kitchen. Happy cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for chicken paprikash

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a large pot, heat about 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chopped Vidalia onion and sauté for around 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently until the onions are translucent and fragrant. This base will enhance the flavors of your chicken paprikash as the onions caramelize delicately.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the whole cut-up chicken pieces to the pot. Brown the chicken on all sides for about 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally until the skin is golden brown. This step is crucial for developing a rich flavor in your chicken paprikash, so be sure to achieve a nice sear!

Step 3: Add Seasoning
Sprinkle in the sweet paprika and Lawry’s seasoning salt, stirring well for 1-2 minutes until the paprika releases its vibrant color and aroma. The key ingredient, sweet paprika, creates the signature flavor of chicken paprikash, ensuring your dish is both delicious and authentically Hungarian.

Step 4: Create Broth
Dissolve 2 chicken bouillon cubes in 4 cups of water, then pour this mixture into the pot, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged. Bring to a gentle simmer, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for added flavor. Cover and let it simmer for about 40–50 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 5: Make Dumplings
While the chicken is simmering, prepare the dumpling batter by mixing 2 eggs, 1/2 cup of water, and the all-purpose flour in a bowl. Begin with 1 cup of flour and mix until the batter is thick but still pourable. Allow the batter to rest for about 10 minutes to enhance the texture of your dumplings in the chicken paprikash.

Step 6: Cook Dumplings
Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the bubbling broth over the last 10–15 minutes of cooking. Cover the pot to trap steam as the dumplings cook, allowing them to puff up and become fluffy. The dumplings should be cooked until they rise to the surface and look slightly set.

Step 7: Finish Sauce
Once the chicken is properly cooked and the dumplings are fluffy, remove the pot from heat. Stir in 1 cup of sour cream until the sauce becomes creamy and velvety. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed, ensuring your chicken paprikash is rich and flavorful before serving.

What to Serve with Hungarian Chicken Paprikash

Enhance your dining experience with perfect pairings that capture the heart and soul of this traditional dish.

Crusty Bread: Ideal for soaking up the creamy sauce, crusty bread adds a delightful texture that complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Egg Noodles: Soft, tender egg noodles soak up the sauce, making every bite a comforting experience that feels like a warm embrace.
Roasted Vegetables: Bright, roasted seasonal veggies add a fresh contrast to the hearty chicken, lightening the meal and adding a burst of color.
Cucumber Salad: A crisp cucumber salad provides a refreshing crunch, balancing the creaminess of the paprikash with a zingy vinaigrette.
Steamed Green Beans: Tender green beans add a healthy touch, their bright color and subtle crunch make for a lovely, simple side.
Red Wine: Pair with a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir; its fruity notes enhance the meal while complementing the dish’s rich flavors.

Each of these delightful pairings brings a unique element to your table, elevating your chicken paprikash experience into a memorable meal that warms the soul.

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Paprikash

Fridge: Store leftover chicken paprikash in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to deepen, making it even more delicious!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze chicken paprikash in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave space for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water to keep the sauce creamy and prevent it from drying out.

Make-Ahead: Consider making chicken paprikash ahead of time for gatherings. It can be refrigerated or frozen, ensuring you’re always prepared for unexpected guests!

Expert Tips for Chicken Paprikash

• Don’t Rush the Browning: Ensure the chicken pieces are well-browned before moving to the next step; this builds a richer flavor for your chicken paprikash.

• Use Quality Paprika: Opt for authentic Hungarian sweet paprika; it’s the key to achieving that signature flavor and vibrant color in your dish.

• Adjust Sauce Thickness: Gradually add flour to thicken the sauce; whisk well to avoid clumps and achieve the perfect creaminess for your chicken paprikash.

• Taste as You Go: Be cautious with salt and bouillon; always taste the broth before adding more seasoning to prevent overpowering flavors.

• Rest for Flavor: After cooking, allow the chicken paprikash to rest for a few minutes before serving; this helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Make Ahead Options

Hungarian Chicken Paprikash is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the chicken and sauce up to 3 days in advance. Simply brown the chicken, add the seasoning, and simmer it in the broth, then let it cool before refrigerating. For the dumplings, mix the batter and store it separately in the refrigerator, ensuring they remain fluffy. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the chicken mixture on the stove, then drop in the refrigerated dumpling batter for the final 10-15 minutes. This method allows you to enjoy the same rich, comforting flavors with minimal effort, making your Chicken Paprikash just as delicious as if you made it fresh!

Variations & Substitutions for Chicken Paprikash

Feel free to personalize this chicken paprikash and make it your own with these delightful twists!

Duck or Turkey: Swap chicken for duck or turkey for a unique flavor experience in this dish.
Vegetable Boost: Add bell peppers or mushrooms to the mix for extra texture and a hearty vegetable presence. The vibrant colors really brighten up the dish!
Dairy-Free Delight: Replace sour cream with cashew cream or coconut yogurt if you’re craving a dairy-free alternative without sacrificing creaminess.
Spicy Kick: For a little heat, incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños while cooking. Just enough to make your taste buds tingle, it elevates the whole dish!
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour for the dumplings to cater to gluten sensitivities while keeping it just as delicious.
Hearty Grains: Instead of dumplings, serve with cooked rice or quinoa for a wholesome twist. This bedding idea changes the texture but keeps the essence of the dish intact!
Flavorful Broth: Enhance the broth with a splash of white wine or a few sprigs of fresh thyme; it infuses complexity without the fuss. You’ll marvel at the depth it brings!

No matter how you choose to adapt this comforting recipe, remember that each variation is a step toward making it a cherished part of your culinary repertoire, just like my family’s beloved Sesame Chicken or Hawaiian Chicken Sheet. Enjoy exploring the possibilities!

Chicken Paprikash Recipe FAQs

What types of chicken work best for Chicken Paprikash?
For the best flavor, I recommend using a whole cut-up chicken with the skin intact. The skin helps retain moisture and adds richness to the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, skinless cuts can be used, but be prepared for a slightly different texture and flavor profile.

How should I store leftover Chicken Paprikash?
Absolutely! Store any leftover chicken paprikash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just ensure it’s cooled down slightly before sealing. This way, the flavors will continue to meld, and you’ll have an even more satisfying meal when you enjoy the leftovers.

Can Chicken Paprikash be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze chicken paprikash! Transfer the cooled dish into a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 3 months. Remember to leave a little space at the top of the container to allow for expansion as it freezes. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water to maintain that creamy sauce.

What can I do if my sauce is too thin?
If you find your chicken paprikash sauce is thinner than you’d like, don’t worry! You can thicken it by gradually adding a mixture of flour and water. Start with 1 tablespoon of flour mixed with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the simmering sauce. Allow it to bubble for a few minutes; repeat this step until you reach your desired thickness—whisking continuously to prevent lumps.

Are there any dietary considerations for Chicken Paprikash?
Yes, it’s important to be mindful of certain dietary restrictions! Chicken paprikash can be made gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour in the dumpling recipe with a gluten-free blend. Additionally, if you’re serving someone with dairy intolerance, you can swap sour cream for lactose-free yogurt or coconut cream for a creamy texture without the dairy.

Can I customize the vegetables in Chicken Paprikash?
Very! You can easily tailor the recipe by adding vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to the base for added flavor and nutrition. Simply sauté them with the onions at the beginning to infuse their flavors into the dish, making your chicken paprikash even heartier and more satisfying.