Hungarian Chicken Paprikash is a classic dish from Hungary, renowned for its rich, creamy sauce infused with the distinctive flavor of paprika, Hungary’s national spice. This comforting stew is a staple in Hungarian cuisine, often enjoyed during family gatherings and celebrations. Its popularity is due to its flavorful simplicity and heartiness, making it a favorite across generations.
Servings: Serves 4 people
Appliances/Utensils:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sweet Hungarian paprika
- 1 teaspoon hot paprika (optional)
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large tomato, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat the Dutch oven over medium heat and add the vegetable oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Stir in the sweet Hungarian paprika and optional hot paprika, cooking for an additional minute to release their flavors.
4. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the Dutch oven, browning them on both sides.
5. Add the sliced bell pepper and chopped tomato to the pot, mixing well with the chicken and onions.
6. Pour in the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
7. Cover the pot and let the chicken cook for about 30 minutes, or until it is fully cooked through and tender.
8. In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream and flour, whisking until smooth.
9. Remove the Dutch oven from heat and slowly stir in the sour cream mixture, ensuring it is well incorporated.
10. Return the pot to low heat, allowing the sauce to thicken without boiling.
11. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips and Suggestions:
- For a creamier sauce, blend the cooked onions and peppers before adding the sour cream mixture.
- To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with cornstarch.
- Adjust the level of hot paprika to suit your spice preference.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with traditional Hungarian noodles called nokedli, or with rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
Estimated Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour