Hungarian cuisine is famous for its bold flavors and rich, hearty dishes. Hungarian Paprika Chicken, or Paprikás Csirke, is a classic comfort food featuring tender chicken simmered in a creamy, paprika-infused sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner and pairs beautifully with dumplings, rice, or crusty bread.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and comforting – The creamy, paprika-infused sauce is deeply flavorful.
- Simple ingredients – Made with pantry staples, this dish is budget-friendly and easy to prepare.
- One-pot meal – Minimal cleanup while delivering maximum taste.
- Perfect for meal prep – The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even more delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 6 chicken legs
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 1 cup of tomato puree
- 1 cup of water
- 4-5 tablespoons of sour cream
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Butter
- 2 tablespoons of paprika
- 2 tablespoons of wheat flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and knife
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Chicken
Season the chicken legs generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
2. Brown the Chicken
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat some olive oil and a knob of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken legs and brown them on all sides. Once browned, remove the chicken and set aside.
3. Cook the Onion and Garlic
Using the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion turns translucent and fragrant.
4. Add Tomato and Spices
Stir in the chopped tomato, tomato puree, and paprika. Mix well to combine, letting the flavors meld together.
5. Make the Sauce
Sprinkle the wheat flour over the mixture and stir well. Gradually add water while stirring to avoid lumps. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
6. Return the Chicken
Place the browned chicken legs back into the skillet. Cover and simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
7. Add Sour Cream
Once the chicken is fully cooked, stir in the sour cream. Heat through for a couple of minutes, but do not let it boil, as this may cause the cream to curdle.
8. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot with dumplings, rice, or crusty bread.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
Recipe Variations & Swaps
- Use chicken thighs – Boneless thighs work well if you prefer a quicker cooking time.
- Spice it up – Add a pinch of cayenne or hot paprika for extra heat.
- Make it dairy-free – Swap sour cream for a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream.
- Extra veggies – Bell peppers or mushrooms make great additions to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with:
- Nokedli (Hungarian dumplings) for a traditional touch.
- Mashed potatoes to soak up the rich sauce.
- Steamed rice or buttered noodles for a simple yet satisfying side.
- A fresh green salad to balance out the richness.
FAQs
1. Can I use boneless chicken instead?
Yes! Boneless chicken thighs work well, but adjust the cooking time to 20-25 minutes.
2. What type of paprika should I use?
Hungarian sweet paprika is best for authentic flavor, but smoked paprika adds a nice twist.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! The flavors deepen when left overnight, making it perfect for meal prep.
4. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the chicken and onions first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. How do I prevent the sour cream from curdling?
Stir in the sour cream at the end and keep the heat low to prevent it from boiling.
Final Thoughts
Hungarian Paprika Chicken is a dish that brings warmth and comfort with every bite. Whether you serve it with dumplings, rice, or crusty bread, it’s guaranteed to be a family favorite. The balance of rich paprika sauce and creamy sour cream makes it a timeless classic.
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