Whenever I think of comfort food, Chicken Paprikash instantly comes to mind. Growing up, my grandmother would whip up this dish on chilly evenings, filling the house with warm, inviting aromas that made anyone’s mouth water. The rich, creamy sauce, perfectly seasoned with paprika, enveloped tender pieces of chicken and created a meal that could bring the family together around the table. I remember those nights filled with laughter, the clinking of forks against plates, and stories shared over steaming bowls of this delightful dish. Now, I love making Chicken Paprikash for my own family, passing down that cherished tradition while creating new memories. It’s a recipe that never fails to impress, whether I’m hosting friends or simply enjoying a cozy dinner at home.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
35 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
30 g

Tools Used:
Saucepan, Skillet, Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Cutting Board

What’s Great About This Chicken Paprikash

Tradition at Its Best

This is a dish that truly embodies the spirit of home cooking. Chicken Paprikash has its roots in Hungarian cuisine, showcasing the beautiful flavors of paprika, a spice that’s both vibrant and aromatic. Each bite is a nostalgic journey, reminding me of family gatherings and the love poured into every ingredient.

Versatile and Easy to Prepare

One of the things I adore about Chicken Paprikash is how adaptable it is. You can easily personalize it by adding your favorite vegetables or even adjusting the spice level to suit your taste. It’s a straightforward recipe that doesn’t require elaborate techniques, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.

A Nutritional Powerhouse

This dish is not only delicious but also packs in nutrition. With the inclusion of lean chicken and wholesome vegetables like onions and capsicum, you’re indulging in a meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Pair it with a side of your choice for a balanced plate.

Family-Friendly Flavor

Even picky eaters love Chicken Paprikash. The creamy texture and savory taste make it appealing to everyone, from young children to adults. It’s the kind of dish that encourages second helpings and leaves everyone feeling satisfied, making it a go-to for family dinners.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This recipe is as versatile as it is delightful. Whether it’s a rainy day dinner, a festive gathering, or a simple weeknight meal, Chicken Paprikash fits the bill. It’s comforting yet elegant enough to impress your guests, truly a dish for any occasion.

A Culinary Adventure

Finally, making Chicken Paprikash is an adventure in itself. The process of sautéing, simmering, and blending flavors together is a joy that elevates your cooking experience. Each step is an opportunity to infuse your personality and creativity into the dish, ensuring that no two versions are exactly the same.

What to Buy for Chicken Paprikash

To create a magnificent Chicken Paprikash, you’ll need fresh, wholesome ingredients that come together harmoniously. The essence of this dish lies in the balance of flavors, where each ingredient plays a vital role in enhancing the overall taste. From the hearty chicken to the aromatic paprika, each component contributes to the rich, creamy sauce we all love.

2 tablespoons Olive oil: This healthy fat is perfect for sautéing and adds a rich flavor to the base of the dish.
1 onion (sliced): Aromatic and sweet, it brings depth to the flavor profile when cooked until soft.
2 Capsicum (red or yellow) (sliced): These add a sweet crunch and vibrant color to the dish.
1 kilogram Chicken breast (boneless skinless) (diced): The star of the show, it becomes tender and absorbs the sauce beautifully.
400 grams Canned tomatoes: Sweet and tangy, they form the base of the sauce.
250 milliliters Chicken broth: This adds richness and moisture, helping to create that luscious sauce.
3 tablespoons Paprika (sweet): The key seasoning that gives the dish its characteristic flavor and color.
1 teaspoon Garlic powder: For a hint of aromatic goodness without overpowering the dish.
150 grams sour cream: This adds creaminess and a slight tang to the finished meal.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.

Step by Step Guide for Chicken Paprikash

Cooking Chicken Paprikash is an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Follow these steps for a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Each step helps build layers of flavor, ensuring that every bite is delicious.

Start by heating the olive oil in a large fry pan over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sauté the ingredients but not smoking. Once heated, carefully add the sliced onion and capsicum. Sauté these for about five minutes or until they become tender and slightly translucent, releasing their sweet aromas into the air.
Next, add the diced chicken to the pan. Cook it thoroughly, stirring occasionally, until it’s sealed on the outside. It doesn’t need to be browned; just ensure it loses its raw appearance. This should take about five to seven minutes.
Once the chicken is sealed, it’s time to add the canned tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir everything together, making sure to scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. This will add extra flavor to your dish.
Now, sprinkle in the paprika and garlic powder. Stir well to combine, allowing the spices to coat the chicken and vegetables. The vibrant color of the paprika should start to deepen as it mingles with the other ingredients.
Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is cooked through and tender, and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream. This will enrich the sauce, making it creamy and delicious. Heat it through but avoid boiling, as that might curdle the sour cream.
Now is the moment to taste your Chicken Paprikash and season it with salt and pepper according to your preference. This step is crucial to elevate the dish and ensure all the flavors shine.
Once seasoned to perfection, remove the pan from the heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together even more.
Finally, serve your Chicken Paprikash over a bed of egg noodles, steamed rice, or alongside baked mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. Enjoy it with loved ones, and dive into the deliciousness that you’ve created!

Things Worth Knowing

Storage: Leftover Chicken Paprikash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Freezing: You can freeze Chicken Paprikash for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Serving suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with baked mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or steamed rice, making it versatile for any meal.
Adjusting spice levels: Feel free to add more or less paprika based on your preference for spice. If you enjoy a kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Enhancing flavors: For a deeper flavor, let the dish simmer longer, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully together.

Substitutions and Tips

When making Chicken Paprikash, it’s essential to have some handy tips and potential substitutions in mind to make it even better. Here are some suggestions:

Olive oil: Can be substituted for any vegetable oil, butter, or ghee, depending on your preference.
Capsicum: Red and yellow capsicums work best for their sweetness, but feel free to use green peppers if that’s what you have on hand.
Chicken breast: Boneless skinless chicken breast can be replaced with thighs or even bone-in pieces. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Canned tomatoes: You can use fresh tomatoes if preferred; just ensure they’re ripe for the best flavor.
Chicken broth: Homemade broth always adds extra richness, but store-bought works just fine too.
Sour cream: This can be swapped for cream, but keep in mind the texture will be a bit looser.
Cooking technique: For a more complex flavor, consider browning the chicken before adding other ingredients.

What Goes Well With This Chicken Paprikash

Baked mashed potatoes: This classic pairing complements the creamy sauce beautifully, creating a comforting meal.
Egg noodles: Serve Chicken Paprikash over egg noodles for a hearty and satisfying option.
Steamed rice: A perfect base for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Green salad: A light, crisp salad on the side can balance the richness of the dish.
Seasonal vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables add a lovely touch of color and nutrients.
Special occasions: Chicken Paprikash is ideal for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or a comforting meal during chilly evenings.

FAQ

Chicken Paprikash is a traditional Hungarian dish made with tender chicken cooked in a creamy, paprika-infused sauce. It often features sautéed onions and bell peppers, making it rich in flavor and comfort. This dish is typically served over egg noodles or rice for a hearty meal.

Yes, you can absolutely use different cuts of chicken! While boneless, skinless chicken breast is commonly used, boneless thighs or even drumsticks work well. Just remember that cooking times may vary depending on the cut you choose. The key is to ensure the chicken is cooked through and tender.

There are plenty of delicious options to serve alongside Chicken Paprikash. It’s commonly paired with baked mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or steamed rice, which soak up the flavorful sauce. You can also add a light green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.

Yes, Chicken Paprikash can be made ahead of time, making it a great choice for meal prepping. Simply prepare the dish, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving to restore its delicious flavor.

Conclusion

Chicken Paprikash is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate, bringing comfort and joy to any dining occasion. With its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it might just become your new favorite go-to dish!