Classic Chicken Paprikash Recipe

If you’ve ever wanted to dive into a comforting, vibrant dish that’s both rich in flavor and steeped in tradition, you’re in for a treat with this Classic Chicken Paprikash Recipe. This Hungarian gem is a delightful blend of tender chicken thighs soaked in a luscious, paprika-spiced sauce that’s creamy and deeply satisfying. Whether you are looking for something hearty to warm the soul or a flavorful meal to impress your friends, this recipe brings an irresistible combination of simplicity and elegance straight to your kitchen table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet absolutely essential to creating that authentic taste and texture we all love in a Classic Chicken Paprikash Recipe. Each element plays its part—from the savory chicken thighs to the sweet paprika and creamy sour cream—building layers of flavor that keep you coming back for more.

• 2 pounds Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken Thighs: Preferred for their rich flavor and juicy texture that stay tender throughout cooking.
• 2 tablespoons Sweet Paprika: The star spice providing that signature warm color and subtle smokiness.
• 1 medium Onion, diced: Adds a gentle sweetness and aromatic depth to the sauce.
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced: Delivers a fragrant punch that enhances the overall flavor.
• 2 cups Low-sodium Chicken Broth: Essential for tenderizing the chicken and creating a flavorful base for the sauce.
• 1 cup Sour Cream: Gives the dish its creamy, tangy finish that balances the paprika’s earthiness.
• 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil: For perfectly searing the chicken and locking in juices.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, unlocking and enhancing all other flavors.
• 1 handful Fresh Parsley, chopped: For a fresh, vibrant garnish to brighten the dish.

How to Make Classic Chicken Paprikash Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by dicing the onion and mincing the garlic so that you have them ready when you need to build your sauce. This small prep step will help the cooking process go smoothly and keeps your kitchen organized, which always makes the whole experience more enjoyable.

Step 2: Heat Vegetable Oil

Warm the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. This oil will create that beautiful golden crust on the chicken, which adds texture and locks in flavor, setting your dish up for success right from the start.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken Thighs

Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. Place them skin-side down in the hot oil and sear for 5 to 7 minutes. This step renders the fat and crisps the skin, creating a savory foundation for your paprikash.

Step 4: Flip and Sear the Other Side

After the skin side looks beautifully golden and crispy, carefully flip the chicken thighs and sear the other side for another 5 to 7 minutes. Each side should develop a rich, caramelized crust that enhances the final dish’s flavor profile.

Step 5: Remove Chicken and Sauté Onions

Take the chicken out and set it aside briefly. In the same pot, toss in your diced onions and cook them for about 5 minutes until they become translucent and soft. This step builds the sweet and savory base for your paprikash sauce.

Step 6: Add Garlic

Mix in the minced garlic and sauté for just 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic — you want it fragrant and mellow, not bitter. This quick step enhances the depth of flavor in your sauce.

Step 7: Stir in Sweet Paprika

Now, stir in the sweet paprika and cook for another minute. This step is crucial because it allows the paprika to bloom, releasing those beautiful red hues and rich, smoky flavors that are the heart of this Classic Chicken Paprikash Recipe.

Step 8: Deglaze With Chicken Broth

Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon. This deglazing lifts up all those tasty browned bits stuck to the pan, infusing the broth with incredible flavor.

Step 9: Return Chicken and Simmer

Place your chicken back in the pot, skin-side up this time, so it stays crispy. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook on low heat for 30 to 35 minutes. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld perfectly and the chicken to become tender enough to fall off the bone.

Step 10: Check Chicken and Remove

Once cooked through, check that the chicken is tender and juicy. Remove it and set aside while you work on the sauce—it’s all about layering flavors now.

Step 11: Reduce the Sauce

Turn the heat up to medium-high and let the sauce reduce for 5 to 10 minutes. This step thickens the sauce, concentrating the flavors into a silky, rich finish that will coat your chicken beautifully.

Step 12: Stir in Sour Cream

Take the pot off the heat and stir in the sour cream slowly to prevent curdling. This ingredient adds a luscious creaminess and a bright tang that perfectly balances the paprika’s earthy warmth.

Step 13: Return Chicken to Pot

Return the chicken to the pot, gently coating each piece with the velvety sauce. Let it rest in this warm embrace for a few minutes, allowing every bite to be infused with that signature paprikash flavor.

Step 14: Garnish and Serve

Finish by sprinkling fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and fresh herbal notes. Your Classic Chicken Paprikash Recipe is now ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Classic Chicken Paprikash Recipe

Garnishes

A simple handful of chopped fresh parsley is more than just decoration; it adds a fresh, bright contrast to the rich sauce and visually lifts the whole plate. For a little extra zing, a sprinkling of paprika on top also looks stunning.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with classic buttered egg noodles, fluffy rice, or even crusty bread to soak up every drop of that delicious sauce. Consider serving it alongside a simple green salad for a refreshing balance to the creamy, savory flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Try plating individual portions in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the chicken nestled in the sauce. You can also add a dollop of sour cream on each piece just before serving, providing an inviting swirl that impresses guests and tastes divine.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. Classic Chicken Paprikash Recipe reheats beautifully and actually develops deeper flavors after resting overnight, making it a perfect next-day meal.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish by placing cooled portions in freezer-safe containers. For best texture, remove the sour cream before freezing and add it when reheating. Chicken and sauce will keep wonderfully for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick, and stir in sour cream at the end to revive the dish’s creamy richness.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for Classic Chicken Paprikash Recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but thighs are preferred because they stay juicy and tender during the slow simmering process. Breasts can dry out more easily, so keep an eye on cooking time.

Is sweet paprika the only spice needed?

Sweet paprika is the defining spice in this recipe, providing its characteristic color and flavor. While you can add a pinch of smoked paprika for a deeper flavor, the classic version relies on sweet paprika for authenticity.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the sour cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative for a creamy texture without the dairy. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

What is the best way to serve Classic Chicken Paprikash Recipe for a crowd?

Serve it family-style in a large, shallow serving dish over a bed of noodles or rice. This encourages relaxed, communal dining and makes it easy for guests to help themselves to generous portions.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead and store it separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce, add the cooked chicken, and warm through to finish the dish perfectly.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Chicken Paprikash Recipe is a heartwarming and irresistible dish that effortlessly brings a taste of Hungarian tradition into your kitchen. It’s a wonderfully simple meal built on familiar ingredients but bursting with rich, comforting flavors. Once you try making it, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved favorite for gatherings, cozy dinners, or whenever you crave something truly special. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a go and share the love with your family and friends!

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