Chicken paprikash is a comforting and flavorful Hungarian dish, characterized by its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken. This recipe focuses on achieving that authentic taste and texture, resulting in a paprikash that's sure to become a family favorite. We'll explore variations and answer common questions along the way, ensuring you become a paprikash pro.
What Makes This Chicken Paprikash Recipe the Best?
This recipe prioritizes authenticity while remaining accessible to home cooks. We use high-quality ingredients, including Hungarian paprika (sweet and hot, for balanced flavor), and employ traditional cooking techniques that coax the most flavor out of each element. We also provide helpful tips and troubleshooting advice, making this recipe suitable for both novice and experienced cooks.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons Hungarian sweet paprika
- 1 tablespoon Hungarian hot paprika (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 1 teaspoon marjoram
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream or crème fraîche
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Egg noodles or dumplings (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
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Sear the Chicken: Heat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Add the onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the sweet paprika, hot paprika, caraway seeds, marjoram, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute more, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and release their aromas. This step is crucial for developing the rich flavor of the paprikash.
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Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Return the chicken to the pot. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
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Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk together the flour with 2 tablespoons of cold water to form a slurry. Slowly whisk the slurry into the simmering paprikash. Cook for a few minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
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Stir in Sour Cream: Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the sour cream or crème fraîche. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Do not let the sauce boil after adding the sour cream, as it may curdle.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with egg noodles or dumplings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What kind of paprika should I use for chicken paprikash?
Authentic Hungarian paprika is key. Use a blend of sweet and hot paprika for the best flavor. The sweet paprika provides richness, while the hot paprika adds a subtle but delightful heat.
Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly—bone-in chicken will require a longer cooking time to ensure it's fully cooked through.
What can I serve with chicken paprikash?
Traditionally, chicken paprikash is served with egg noodles or dumplings (nokedli). However, it also pairs well with boiled potatoes, rice, or even crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, chicken paprikash tastes even better the next day! It can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat before serving.
How can I make it spicier?
Increase the amount of hot paprika or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
What if my sauce is too thin?
If your sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a few minutes to reduce the liquid. You can also use a cornstarch slurry as an alternative to flour.
This recipe provides a delicious and authentic chicken paprikash experience. Remember to adjust the spice level to your preference and enjoy the rich, flavorful result!
