What is Chicken Paprikash and where does it come from?

Chicken Paprikash is a classic Hungarian dish made of chicken simmered in a creamy sauce flavored primarily with sweet Hungarian paprika. Originating in Hungary during the 18th or 19th century, it is cherished as a comforting, hearty meal. The dish typically combines chicken pieces, onions, garlic, and sour cream to create a rich sauce, often served over egg noodles or traditional Hungarian dumplings called nokedli.

What ingredients do I need to make authentic Chicken Paprikash?

To prepare authentic Chicken Paprikash, you need chicken (usually bone-in pieces), onions, garlic, Hungarian sweet paprika (preferably from Kalocsa or Szeged), salt, pepper, sour cream, and water or broth. Some recipes include tomatoes or Hungarian bell peppers for added flavor. Using good-quality Hungarian paprika is key to achieving the dish’s signature smoky and slightly sweet taste.

Can I use chicken broth instead of water for Chicken Paprikash?

Yes, using chicken broth instead of water can deepen the flavor of Chicken Paprikash, adding richness to the sauce. While traditional recipes often use water, substituting it with homemade or good-quality store-bought broth elevates the taste and makes the dish more savory without overpowering the delicate paprika flavor.

How should I cook the chicken for the best flavor in Chicken Paprikash?

For enhanced flavor, it’s recommended to brown the chicken pieces in a hot pan before simmering them in the paprika sauce. Browning creates a caramelized crust that adds depth and richness to the dish. After browning, the chicken is gently cooked in the paprika and sour cream sauce until tender and flavorful.

What are traditional side dishes to serve with Chicken Paprikash?

Chicken Paprikash is traditionally served with nokedli, small Hungarian dumplings similar to German Spaetzle. Alternatively, it pairs well with buttered egg noodles or mashed potatoes. These mild, soft sides absorb the creamy paprika sauce perfectly, making them ideal accompaniments to balance the dish’s bold flavors.

Chicken Paprikash Recipe With Classic Hungarian Taste

Name: Chicken Paprikash
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Hungarian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons lard or butter; 3 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces; 2 medium yellow onions, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, finely minced; 2 Roma tomatoes, seeds removed and finely diced; 1 Hungarian bell pepper, diced (optional); 3-4 tablespoons Hungarian paprika; 2 cups chicken broth or water; 1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup full-fat sour cream, at room temperature; 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons lard or butter

3 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces

2 medium yellow onions, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, finely minced

2 Roma tomatoes, seeds removed and finely diced

1 Hungarian bell pepper, diced (optional)

3–4 tablespoons Hungarian paprika

2 cups chicken broth or water

1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

3/4 cup full-fat sour cream, at room temperature

1/4 cup heavy whipping cream

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Instructions

1-Heat the lard in a heavy pot or Dutch oven and brown the chicken pieces on all sides, then transfer them to a plate.

2-In the same oil, fry the onions until golden brown, then add the garlic, tomatoes, and optional bell pepper, cooking for 2-3 more minutes.

3-Remove the pot from heat and stir in the paprika, salt, and pepper to prevent scorching.

4-Return the chicken to the pot and pour in the chicken broth to mostly cover the chicken. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for 40 minutes.

5-Remove the chicken and set it aside. In a small bowl, mix the flour into the sour cream and heavy cream to form a smooth paste.

6-Stir the cream mixture into the sauce while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer for a few minutes until thickened, then season to taste.

7-Return the chicken to the sauce and simmer until heated through.

8-Serve with Hungarian nokedli, which is similar to short, stubby German Spaetzle. For a twist, try serving it with easy chicken stir-fry sides from our blog.

Notes

🌶️ Use Hungarian paprika from the Kalocsa region for the best flavor and vibrant color.
🍳 Browning the chicken before simmering enhances flavor and adds depth.
🥄 Use full-fat sour cream at room temperature to prevent lumps when mixing with flour.

Author: Brandi Oshea
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: Hungarian
Diet: Gluten-Free

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 516 kcal
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 744 mg
Fat: 37 g
Saturated Fat: 14 g
Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 11 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 32 g
Cholesterol: 148 mg