Hungarian Chicken Paprikash Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks)
- 30 ml (2 tbsp) vegetable oil
- 150g (1 cup) onion, finely chopped
- 15g (2 tbsp) sweet Hungarian paprika
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 large bell pepper, sliced
- 500 ml (2 cups) chicken broth
- 150g (1 cup) sour cream
- 15g (2 tbsp) all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken on all sides for about 8–10 minutes, ensuring a golden crust forms. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and sliced bell pepper, and cook for another 3 minutes until they start to soften.
Step 3: Add the Paprika
Lower the heat and add the sweet Hungarian paprika, stirring continuously for about 1 minute. Return the chicken pieces to the skillet and coat them with the onion and paprika mixture.
Step 4: Simmer the Chicken
Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the liquid covers the chicken pieces. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover the skillet, and let cook for about 40 minutes over low heat until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Step 5: Create the Paprikash Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream and flour, whisking until smooth. Slowly incorporate a ladle of the hot cooking liquid to temper the sour cream mixture, then stir it back into the skillet. Allow the paprikash to simmer for an additional 10 minutes to thicken the sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Taste the sauce, adjusting seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Hungarian Chicken Paprikash is traditionally paired with dumplings or rice, soaking up the delicious sauce.
Conclusion
Hungarian Chicken Paprikash is more than just a meal—it’s an experience steeped in tradition and flavor. Its comforting qualities and unique tastes invite anyone who tries it to indulge in the warmth of Hungarian hospitality. As you master this dish, think of the memories being created around its vibrant flavors. Enjoy the journey of creating this comforting classic in your kitchen, and may it become a beloved part of your culinary repertoire.
