Hungarian Chicken Paprika
A hearty Hungarian classic with smoky paprika, tender chicken, and creamy sauce, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the chicken parts for 35 minutes until tender.
- While the chicken cooks, heat 4 Tbsp. of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes, water, chicken bouillon, paprika, salt, and pepper; bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, strain the cooked chicken from the pot, and distribute it evenly among the two skillet pans.
- Cover each pan and simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Turn off the heat, then stir in 16 oz. of sour cream into each pan until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
- Serve the creamy chicken and sauce over cooked noodles or dumplings, spooning the sauce generously over the top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the paprika, garlic, and salt mixture for a few hours before cooking. You can substitute chicken thighs for the drumsticks for a juicier dish. If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. Pairing this dish with crusty bread can help soak up the delicious sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful chicken paprika over egg noodles or dumplings for a traditional touch. A side of steamed green beans or a simple salad can complement the richness of the dish. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a glass of white wine or a light beer.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much. This will help maintain the creamy consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hungarian Chicken Paprika contains roughly 362 calories, with 16g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (182% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (93% of the Daily Value), and iron (84% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1160mg per serving (50% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken breasts or thighs can be used. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they remain juicy and tender, cooking for approximately 20-25 minutes instead of 35 minutes.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you don't have sour cream, Greek yogurt or crème fraîche can be excellent alternatives, providing a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor. Adjust the quantity to taste.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce a day ahead and refrigerate. Just reheat gently before serving. This allows the flavors to develop further, enhancing the overall taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).