Chicken Paprikash is a beloved Hungarian classic known for its rich, comforting flavors and satisfying textures. This traditional dish features tender chunks of chicken simmered in a savory sauce made with sweet paprika, onions, garlic, and a finishing touch of sour cream. While it’s deeply rooted in Central European cuisine, Chicken Paprikash has found its place in kitchens around the world, appreciated for its simplicity and depth of flavor. Whether you’re craving a hearty dinner for the family or introducing yourself to Hungarian food, this recipe is sure to impress with minimal fuss.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tbsp sweet Hungarian paprika

• 1 tbsp flour

• 1 ½ cups chicken broth

• ½ cup sour cream

• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• Cooked egg noodles or dumplings, for serving

Directions

• Warm olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

• Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then brown on all sides. Remove from skillet and set aside.

• In the same pan, add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent.

• Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

• Sprinkle paprika and flour over the onion mixture, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

• Gradually add chicken broth while stirring to create a smooth sauce.

• Return the chicken to the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer.

• Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

• Remove from heat and stir in the sour cream until fully incorporated.

• Add a splash of lemon juice, if desired, for added brightness.

• Serve hot over egg noodles or dumplings, topped with fresh parsley.

Nutrients

• Calories: Approximately 410 per serving

• Protein: 30g

• Fat: 27g

• Saturated Fat: 9g

• Carbohydrates: 12g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 3g

• Sodium: 530mg

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Chicken Paprikash holds a special place in the realm of comforting meals due to its rich, creamy, and slightly smoky flavor profile. What makes this recipe truly stand out is the use of sweet Hungarian paprika, which adds both vibrant color and a unique warmth that defines the dish. The preparation method is straightforward, requiring just one skillet, which makes cleanup easy and the process stress-free. By using boneless, skinless chicken thighs, the recipe ensures maximum flavor and tenderness, avoiding the dryness that can sometimes occur with chicken breasts.

Another aspect that sets this version apart is the harmonious balance of ingredients. The onions and garlic provide a savory backbone, while the sour cream brings a smooth tanginess that elevates the sauce to something truly comforting. The flour acts as a gentle thickener, giving the sauce body without making it heavy. Together, these elements create a dish that’s deeply flavorful, incredibly satisfying, and well-suited for everything from casual family dinners to weekend entertaining.

This dish is also extremely adaptable. It pairs beautifully with egg noodles, but can easily be served over rice, mashed potatoes, or spaetzle depending on what you have on hand. It’s a meal that invites experimentation and rewards every effort with delicious results.

The Benefits of the Ingredients

Each ingredient in Chicken Paprikash brings more than just flavor to the table—it offers nutritional value and culinary benefits that contribute to the overall appeal of the dish. Chicken thighs are particularly well-suited for stews and braises because of their higher fat content, which keeps them juicy and tender even after simmering. They are also rich in protein, iron, and zinc, making them a nutritious choice for dinner.

Hungarian paprika, the star spice of the recipe, is loaded with antioxidants, particularly vitamin A and capsaicin, which support immune health and reduce inflammation. Unlike spicier versions of paprika, the Hungarian sweet variety provides warmth and sweetness without overwhelming the palate.

Onions and garlic are both known for their health-promoting properties. Onions are a great source of prebiotics, which support gut health, while garlic has long been celebrated for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory effects. Together, they add not only depth of flavor but also functional benefits to your meal.

Sour cream, though often considered indulgent, supplies calcium, vitamin B12, and probiotics. It brings a luxurious mouthfeel to the sauce without requiring large amounts of cream or butter. The olive oil and butter combo used to brown the chicken adds heart-healthy fats and a subtle richness that enhances the flavor foundation.

Lastly, chicken broth not only ties the sauce together but also provides hydration and a small dose of protein and minerals. When made from scratch or selected with care, it can greatly enhance the overall quality of the dish.

Cooking Tips

To make the most of your Chicken Paprikash, it’s essential to handle the paprika with care. Since paprika can burn easily, it should be added after the onions have softened and just before the broth is poured in. This helps to release its oils without scorching, preserving its vibrant flavor. Using authentic Hungarian sweet paprika is also key—this is not the time for smoked or hot versions unless you’re specifically looking for a spicy twist.

When browning the chicken, avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure even searing. This browning step adds a depth of flavor that cannot be replicated later in the cooking process. Be sure to remove the chicken from the pan once it’s golden but not fully cooked through—it will finish cooking in the simmering sauce, absorbing all the flavors.

Another critical tip is to add the sour cream at the end of the cooking process and off the heat. This prevents curdling and maintains the sauce’s smooth consistency. If you’re worried about the sour cream separating, you can temper it by stirring a bit of the hot sauce into the sour cream before combining it with the rest of the dish.

For those looking to meal prep or make the dish ahead of time, Chicken Paprikash stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days and can even be frozen. The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers incredibly tasty. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to preserve the sauce’s integrity.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Paprikash is traditionally served over nokedli, a Hungarian-style dumpling similar to spaetzle, but it’s equally delicious with other bases like egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. These starches absorb the flavorful sauce and provide the perfect canvas for the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, serving the dish with roasted vegetables or a side salad can create a more balanced meal.

To elevate your presentation, garnish each plate with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. This not only adds a pop of color but also a touch of freshness that complements the rich sauce. A small spoonful of sour cream on top can enhance the creaminess and create a striking contrast.

For drinks, Chicken Paprikash pairs wonderfully with dry white wines such as Pinot Grigio, Riesling, or Sauvignon Blanc. These wines offer acidity that cuts through the creaminess of the sauce while complementing the paprika’s warmth. If you prefer beer, a crisp lager or light ale works well, refreshing the palate between bites.

You could also consider offering crusty bread alongside the dish, perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce. This makes the meal even more satisfying and eliminates food waste.

Conclusion

Chicken Paprikash is more than just a meal—it’s a warm embrace in a bowl, steeped in tradition and flavor. Its ability to deliver deep, satisfying taste with minimal ingredients and effort makes it an invaluable addition to any home cook’s repertoire. Whether you’re introducing your family to Hungarian cuisine or simply looking for a comforting dinner on a chilly night, this recipe checks every box. From the tender chicken to the velvety paprika sauce and the satisfying noodles, each component comes together in perfect harmony.

As food trends come and go, the timeless appeal of dishes like Chicken Paprikash remains strong. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best meals are those passed down through generations, rooted in culture and made with love. With a few pantry staples and a little patience, you can bring the rich flavors of Eastern Europe right to your dinner table. And once you do, don’t be surprised if this dish becomes a regular favorite—one that brings warmth, nostalgia, and full bellies every time it’s made.