Hungarian Chicken Paprikash is a warm, comforting dish known for its rich, creamy sauce and deep paprika flavor. Tender chicken simmers slowly in a velvety sauce made with onions, tomatoes, and sour cream, creating a meal that’s both hearty and full of character. Traditionally served with egg noodles or dumplings, it’s a true Central European classic.
Ingredients
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2 lbs bone-in chicken thighs and drumsticks
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2 tbsp olive oil or butter
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1 large onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tbsp sweet Hungarian paprika
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½ tsp hot paprika (optional for extra spice)
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1 tbsp flour
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1 cup chicken broth
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1 cup crushed tomatoes (or 2 medium fresh tomatoes, chopped)
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½ cup sour cream
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley for garnish
Cooking Time
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Prep time: 15 minutes
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Cook time: 45 minutes
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Total time: 1 hour
Serving
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Serves 4
Instructions
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Prepare the chicken:
Pat the chicken dry and season with salt and pepper on both sides. -
Brown the chicken:
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and brown them on both sides for about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside. -
Cook the onions:
In the same skillet, add chopped onions and cook until golden and soft. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds more. -
Add the paprika:
Remove the pan from heat briefly so the paprika doesn’t burn. Stir in both sweet and hot paprika, coating the onions well. -
Make the sauce:
Sprinkle in the flour, then return the skillet to low heat. Add the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring to make a smooth sauce. -
Simmer the chicken:
Return the browned chicken to the skillet. Cover and simmer gently for 30–35 minutes, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked. -
Finish with sour cream:
Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in sour cream slowly to create a creamy, silky sauce. Do not boil after adding sour cream, as it can curdle. -
Serve:
Spoon the chicken and sauce over buttered egg noodles or spaetzle, and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Tips
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Use authentic Hungarian paprika for the best flavor — it’s sweeter and richer than regular paprika.
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You can add a splash of heavy cream along with sour cream for extra richness.
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If the sauce is too thick, thin it slightly with a few tablespoons of warm chicken broth.
Nutrition (per serving)
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Calories: 420
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Protein: 36g
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Fat: 25g
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Carbohydrates: 10g
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Fiber: 2g
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Sodium: 480mg
This Hungarian Chicken Paprikash delivers deep flavor and creamy comfort in every bite — a dish that warms both the heart and the table, perfect for cozy family dinners.
