Name: Savory Chicken Paprikash: Comfort in Every Bite
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Chicken Thighs and Legs (Bone-in and skin-on); 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour (Use gluten-free flour for gluten-free option); 2 tablespoons Paprika (Use Hungarian for authentic flavor); 1 teaspoon Sea Salt (Adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Freshly ground); 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (Any light oil works); 1 medium Sweet Onion (Chopped); 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (Omit for milder dish); 2 cups Low Sodium Chicken Stock (Homemade is better); 1 cup Sour Cream (Greek yogurt or crème fraîche can be used)

As I stirred the pot, the aroma of paprika wrapped around me like a warm embrace, evoking memories of cozy family dinners. Chicken Paprikash is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of Hungarian comfort food that brings people together. This easy-to-make recipe delivers tender chicken simmered in a rich, creamy sauce, infused with vibrant paprika, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors. Best of all, it’s a one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights yet special enough to impress your guests. Plus, with the option for gluten-free adaptations, everyone can enjoy this hearty feast. Are you ready to make dinner a delightful experience?

Why is Chicken Paprikash a Must-Try?

Heartwarming Comfort: Each bite delivers a warm, cozy feeling that transcends mere sustenance.
One-Pot Wonder: Simplify your cooking with this easy, mess-free dish that’s perfect for busy evenings.
Flavorful Tradition: This recipe honors authentic Hungarian cuisine, showcasing the bold taste of paprika.
Adaptable Delight: Enjoy gluten-free options and variations to cater to all dietary preferences.
Family-Friendly Meal: A crowd-pleaser that brings everyone to the table, paired wonderfully with dumplings or rice.

Whether you’re aiming for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests, Chicken Paprikash is the ultimate comfort food! Check out our other crowd favorites like the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole or Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos for more meal inspiration!

Chicken Paprikash Ingredients

Get ready to indulge in a dish that’s packed with vibrant flavor!

For the Chicken

Chicken Thighs and Legs – Bone-in and skin-on pieces provide a richer, more flavorful base for your Chicken Paprikash.

For the Sauce

All-Purpose Flour – This acts as a thickener; swap it with gluten-free flour for a delightful gluten-free Chicken Paprikash.
Paprika – For authentic flavor, use Hungarian paprika; if not available, sweet or smoked paprika works beautifully too.
Sea Salt – Enhances and balances all the flavors; adjust according to your taste preferences.
Black Pepper – Freshly ground black pepper amplifies flavor, so don’t skip out on this!
Vegetable Oil – A neutral oil for browning your chicken; any light oil will do just fine.
Sweet Onion – Adds a mellow sweetness that deepens the flavor; substitute with yellow onion or shallots if needed.
Cayenne Pepper – Adds a welcoming heat; feel free to omit it for a milder dish.
Low Sodium Chicken Stock – The cooking liquid; homemade stock will elevate the taste even further!
Sour Cream – This adds richness and tang; Greek yogurt or crème fraîche can be substituted, and coconut or cashew cream are great dairy-free options.

With these ingredients, you’re on your way to mastering a comforting Chicken Paprikash that will warm hearts and satisfy appetites!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Paprikash

Step 1: Prepare Chicken
Start by combining all-purpose flour, sweet paprika, sea salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Dredge the chicken thighs and legs in the mixture until each piece is well coated, then set them aside on a plate. This step is crucial for creating that rich flavor in your Chicken Paprikash sauce.

Step 2: Brown Chicken
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat a couple of tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the coated chicken pieces, browning them for about 3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside, retaining the flavorful drippings in the pot.

Step 3: Sauté Onions
Add the chopped sweet onion to the same pot, stirring them in the drippings. Cook the onions over medium heat for about 2 minutes until they become tender and translucent. While sautéing, sprinkle in cayenne pepper and any remaining paprika to infuse the dish with a vibrant flavor that will elevate your Chicken Paprikash.

Step 4: Simmer Chicken
Return the browned chicken to the pot, ensuring it’s nestled among the onions. Pour in low sodium chicken stock, bringing the mixture to a boil over high heat. Then, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and let it cook for about 45 minutes or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 5: Thicken Sauce
To create a creamy sauce for your Chicken Paprikash, mix the leftover flour with sour cream in a bowl, adding half a cup of hot liquid from the pot to temper it. Stir until smooth, then gradually whisk this mixture back into the pot. Allow it to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper as desired for a perfect finish.

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken Paprikash are a fantastic choice for meal prep lovers! You can dredge the chicken in flour and paprika up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and flavorful. Additionally, you can sauté the onions and spices ahead of time, allowing their rich flavors to meld, and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sautéed mixture, add the browned chicken and stock, and let it simmer until warmed through. This way, you’ll have a comforting, aromatic meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights—just as delicious as if you made it fresh!

Expert Tips for Chicken Paprikash

Choose Quality Chicken: Opt for skin-on, bone-in pieces for richer flavor; boneless might not provide the same depth.
Paprika Matters: For authenticity, use Hungarian paprika. Mixing sweet and smoked can boost flavor complexity.
Temper the Sour Cream: Mix it with hot liquid before adding to prevent curdling; this keeps your Chicken Paprikash creamy and smooth.
Simmer Low and Slow: Allow the chicken to simmer tenderly; it enhances flavors and makes for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Avoid Overheating Leftovers: Reheat gently to maintain the sauce’s texture and prevent it from separating.

These tips will help ensure your Chicken Paprikash turns out perfect every time!

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Paprikash

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing to preserve freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Chicken Paprikash without sour cream for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat to maintain the creamy texture. If desired, stir in sour cream after thawing for that rich finish.

Serving Tips: Reheat and serve over egg noodles, rice, or paired with traditional dumplings for a delightful meal every time!

Chicken Paprikash Variations & Substitutions

Let your culinary creativity shine by exploring delightful twists and substitutions for your Chicken Paprikash!

Dairy-Free: Substitute sour cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a luscious, dairy-free alternative. You’ll still achieve that creamy texture and rich flavor.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour in place of all-purpose flour to thicken your sauce. This simple swap ensures everyone can enjoy this heartwarming dish!
Zesty Kick: Add a splash of lemon juice or a teaspoon of vinegar to brighten the sauce and enhance the flavors. It adds a lovely tang that complements the richness beautifully.
Different Proteins: Swap chicken for pork or beef to take this recipe in a new direction. Cook until tender, keeping an eye on cooking times for each meat variety.
Smoked Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika instead of sweet paprika to introduce a tantalizing smokiness to your sauce. It deepens the dish’s overall flavor profile.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley during the last few minutes of cooking for a burst of freshness and color that elevates the dining experience.
Fire It Up: If you enjoy some heat, sprinkle in additional cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños. Adjust according to your preferred spice level for a warm kick!
Savory Additions: Stir in some diced bell peppers or mushrooms while sautéing the onions for added texture and flavor; these ingredients enhance the comfort aspect of the dish.

Whatever your preference, you can make Chicken Paprikash your own. For more tasty chicken ideas, check out our Cheesy Chicken Garlic Wraps or the rich and creamy Rotisserie Chicken Mushroom Soup. Enjoy cooking and happy feasting!

What to Serve with Chicken Paprikash

As you prepare this creamy, flavorful dish, let’s explore what delicious sides can elevate your meal even further.

Egg Noodles: Their soft, pillowy texture perfectly absorbs the rich sauce, making every bite a comforting delight.
Spaetzle: These tender, dumpling-like noodles create a traditional pairing, enhancing the Bavarian feel of your dinner.
Roasted Vegetables: Balanced colors and flavors from seasonal veggies add freshness to the meal while complementing the dish’s hearty profile.
Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty bread slathered with butter invites everyone to dip, sopping up every last drop of that creamy sauce.
Classic Coleslaw: The crunch and tanginess of coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast, creating a delightful textural balance to the richness of Chicken Paprikash.
Chardonnay Wine: A glass of chilled Chardonnay harmonizes beautifully with the flavors, bringing out the smokiness of the paprika.

These thoughtful pairings will transform your Chicken Paprikash into a satisfying multi-course experience that everyone will love!

Chicken Paprikash Recipe FAQs

What type of paprika should I use for Chicken Paprikash?
Absolutely! For authentic flavor, Hungarian paprika is the way to go. It offers a rich color and distinctive taste that makes Chicken Paprikash unique. If that’s not available, you can substitute sweet or smoked paprika based on your heat preference, but try to avoid generic or bland varieties, as they won’t provide the same depth of flavor.

How should I store leftovers of Chicken Paprikash?
After enjoying your Chicken Paprikash, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let the dish cool down before sealing it up to maintain its freshness. If you’re uncertain about consuming it within that time, freezing is a great option!

Can I freeze Chicken Paprikash?
Very! To freeze Chicken Paprikash, I recommend doing so without adding the sour cream, as it can change the texture upon thawing. Place the cooled Chicken Paprikash in an airtight container or freezer bag, and it will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently on the stovetop. Stir in sour cream after reheating for that creamy finish.

What if my Chicken Paprikash is too thick?
No worries! If your Chicken Paprikash turns out thicker than you’d like, simply add a splash of low sodium chicken stock or water as you gently reheat it on the stovetop. Stir well to combine until you reach your desired consistency. This not only restores the sauce’s texture but also helps maintain the overall flavors.

Are there any dietary considerations for Chicken Paprikash?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with dairy allergies or looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute sour cream with coconut or cashew cream. Additionally, for a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend when dredging the chicken. Always check specific brands for cross-contamination if gluten is a concern!