Name: Easy Chicken Paprikash Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 1 tbsp oil; 1 tbsp garlic; 2 chicken thighs; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp pepper; 1 cup onion; ½ cup bell pepper; 2 tbsp sweet paprika; ¼ tsp chili flakes; ½ cup chicken broth; 15 oz tomato; ½ cup sour cream; 1 tbsp flour

Chicken paprikash is a comforting and flavorful Hungarian dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This easy version combines tender chicken thighs with aromatic spices and a creamy tomato sauce, making it an ideal meal for any occasion.

Photos of Easy Chicken Paprikash Recipe

One ingredient you might not have readily available is sweet paprika, which is essential for the distinctive flavor of this dish. Ensure you pick up chicken broth and a 15 oz can of tomatoes for the sauce. If you prefer a mild spice level, be cautious with the chili flakes.

Ingredients For Easy Chicken Paprikash

oil: Used for sautéing, this forms the base of the dish.

garlic: Adds a rich, aromatic flavor to the chicken.

chicken thighs: Provides tender and juicy meat that absorbs the sauce well.

salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

pepper: Adds a slight kick to the seasoning.

onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.

bell pepper: Contributes a fresh and slightly sweet flavor.

sweet paprika: Essential for the signature flavor and color of the dish.

chili flakes: Adds heat and balance to the sweetness of the paprika.

chicken broth: Adds moisture and enhances the overall flavor.

tomato: Forms the base of the sauce, providing acidity and sweetness.

sour cream: Adds creaminess and tang to the sauce.

flour: Helps thicken the sauce to the desired consistency.

One reader, Alberta Barrera says:

This easy chicken paprikash recipe is fantastic! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the dish is incredibly simple to make. The chicken turns out tender and juicy, and the sauce is perfectly creamy. It's a new favorite in our household. Highly recommend!

Alberta Barrera

Key Techniques for Preparing Easy Chicken Paprikash Recipe

How to brown chicken: Heat the oil over medium heat, then add the garlic, chicken, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook until the chicken has some color. How to soften onions: Add the onion and bell pepper, then cook until the onions have slightly softened. How to temper sour cream: Take a ladle of the sauce and add to sour cream in a separate bowl. Mix until well combined. How to thicken sauce: Add flour to the sour cream mix and stir. Once it is well combined, add the mix to the pot. Stir in the mix, cover, and simmer for about 5 minutes or until it has thickened.

How To Make Easy Chicken Paprikash

Enjoy a rich and filling Hungarian meal with this chicken paprikash, loaded with tender chicken, chili, and tomatoes simmered in a paprika-spiced sauce.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour

Total: 1 hour 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1tbspoil
1tbspgarlic
2chicken thighs,cut into bite-sized pieces
1tspsalt
½tsppepper,chopped
1cuponion
½cupbell pepper,chopped
2tbspsweet paprika
¼tspchili flakes
½cupchicken broth
15oztomato,(1 can), crushed
½cupsour cream
1tbspflour

Instructions

Heat the oil over medium heat, then add the garlic, chicken, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook until the chicken has some color.
Add the onion and bell pepper, then cook until the onions have slightly softened.
Add the sweet paprika, chili flakes, chicken broth, and crushed tomatoes. Simmer covered for about 40 minutes.
Take a ladle of the sauce and add to sour cream in a separate bowl. Mix until well combined. Add flour to the mix and stir.
Once it is well combined, add the mix to the pot. Stir in the mix, cover and simmer for about 5 minutes or until it has thickened.
Serve with pasta, rice or potatoes, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 744.44kcal
Fat: 52.70g
Saturated Fat: 16.32g
Trans Fat: 0.19g
Monounsaturated Fat: 21.29g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 10.05g
Carbohydrates: 30.78g
Fiber: 7.46g
Sugar: 13.92g
Protein: 39.42g
Cholesterol: 220.84mg
Sodium: 1452.81mg
Calcium: 148.64mg
Potassium: 1424.08mg
Iron: 4.08mg
Vitamin A: 461.78µg
Vitamin C: 84.76mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Easy Chicken Paprikash

When adding the sour cream and flour mixture back into the pot, make sure to temper the sour cream by gradually mixing in a ladle of the hot sauce first. This prevents the sour cream from curdling and ensures a smooth, creamy texture in your chicken paprikash.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop the onion and bell pepper ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-minced garlic: Save time by using store-bought pre-minced garlic instead of mincing it yourself.

Opt for canned tomatoes: Using canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones can cut down on prep time.

Pre-measure spices: Measure out the sweet paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper before you start cooking.

Cook chicken in batches: If you have more than two chicken thighs, cook them in batches to ensure even browning.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Chicken Paprikash Recipe

oil - Substitute with butter: Butter adds a rich flavor and can be used in the same quantity as oil.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Use 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of garlic to maintain the flavor.
chicken thighs - Substitute with chicken breasts: Chicken breasts are leaner and can be used if you prefer white meat.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a savory umami flavor and can replace salt in equal measure.
pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be used in the same quantity.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder taste and can be used in the same quantity as onions.
bell pepper - Substitute with poblano pepper: Poblano peppers add a slightly smoky flavor and can be used in the same quantity.
sweet paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a smoky depth to the dish and can be used in the same quantity.
chili flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Use 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a similar level of heat.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used for a similar savory base and is suitable for vegetarians.
tomato - Substitute with tomato sauce: Tomato sauce can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar consistency.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt has a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.
flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Use half the amount of cornstarch as a thickening agent.

How to Beautifully Present Chicken Paprikash

Use high-quality ingredients: Ensure that the chicken thighs are fresh and preferably organic. The sweet paprika should be of the highest quality to impart a rich flavor.
Perfectly sear the chicken: Heat the oil over medium heat and add the garlic, chicken, salt, and pepper. Sear the chicken until it has a beautiful golden-brown color, ensuring it is cooked evenly.
Create a flavorful base: Add the onion and bell pepper to the pan, cooking until the onions are slightly softened. This will create a rich and aromatic base for the dish.
Incorporate spices and liquids: Add the sweet paprika, chili flakes, chicken broth, and crushed tomatoes. Simmer the mixture covered for about 40 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Prepare the sour cream mixture: Take a ladle of the sauce and mix it with the sour cream in a separate bowl. Add the flour to this mixture and stir until well combined. This step ensures a smooth and creamy consistency.
Thicken the sauce: Add the sour cream mixture back to the pot, stirring well. Cover and simmer for about 5 minutes or until the sauce has thickened to a luxurious consistency.
Plate with elegance: Serve the chicken paprikash over a bed of perfectly cooked pasta, rice, or potatoes. Use a ring mold to shape the starch component neatly on the plate.
Garnish thoughtfully: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of extra sour cream on top for a touch of color and freshness. A light drizzle of olive oil around the plate can add a final touch of sophistication.
Serve with finesse: Present the dish on a pristine white plate to highlight the vibrant colors of the chicken paprikash. Ensure the plate is clean and free of any smudges for a professional finish.

Essential Tools for Making Easy Chicken Paprikash

Skillet: A large, flat-bottomed pan used for browning the chicken and sautéing the vegetables.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the ingredients without scratching the skillet.
Measuring spoons: Essential for accurately measuring the oil, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes.
Measuring cups: Used for measuring the chicken broth and sour cream.
Chef's knife: Necessary for chopping the garlic, onion, and bell pepper.
Cutting board: A safe surface for chopping the vegetables and garlic.
Ladle: Used for transferring a portion of the sauce to mix with the sour cream and flour.
Mixing bowl: Needed for combining the sour cream and flour with the sauce.
Whisk: Helps in mixing the sour cream, flour, and sauce until smooth.
Can opener: Required if the tomatoes are canned.
Pot: Used for simmering the chicken paprikash.
Lid: To cover the pot while simmering the dish.
Serving spoon: For serving the finished chicken paprikash with pasta, rice, or potatoes.

Storing and Freezing Instructions for Easy Chicken Paprikash

Allow the chicken paprikash to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled paprikash to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen up the sauce if it has thickened too much.
If freezing, place the cooled paprikash in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible.
Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
The chicken paprikash can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat from frozen, thaw the paprikash overnight in the refrigerator.
Transfer the thawed paprikash to a pot and reheat gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
If the sauce appears too thick after thawing, add a little chicken broth or water to achieve the desired consistency.
Avoid freezing the paprikash with sour cream mixed in, as it may separate and become grainy when thawed. Instead, add the sour cream when reheating the thawed paprikash.

How To Reheat Leftover Chicken Paprikash

Reheat in the oven: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover chicken paprikash to an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method helps maintain the original texture and flavor of the dish.
Microwave reheating: place the desired portion of chicken paprikash in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to prevent the sauce from splattering and to keep the chicken moist. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, or until the dish is heated to your liking.
Stovetop reheating: place the leftover chicken paprikash in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even heating. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out. Heat until the dish is warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
Slow cooker reheating: transfer the leftover chicken paprikash to your slow cooker. Set the cooker to low heat and let the dish warm up for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. This method is perfect for reheating larger portions and helps the flavors meld together even more.
Freeze and reheat: if you have a large amount of leftover chicken paprikash, consider freezing it for future meals. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Label the container with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight, then use one of the above methods to warm it up.

Interesting Trivia About Chicken Paprikash

A random fact about this recipe is that chicken paprikash is a traditional Hungarian dish known for its rich and flavorful sauce made with paprika, which is a staple spice in Hungarian cuisine.

Is This Recipe Budget-Friendly for Home Cooking?

This easy chicken paprikash recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like chicken thighs, onions, bell peppers, and sour cream are affordable and readily available. The use of sweet paprika and chili flakes adds flavor without breaking the bank. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20 USD, making it a budget-friendly yet delicious option for dinner.

Is Easy Chicken Paprikash Healthy or Unhealthy?

The chicken paprikash recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes:

Lean protein from chicken thighs
Nutrient-rich vegetables like onions and bell peppers
Antioxidant-packed spices such as paprika and chili flakes

However, there are some areas of concern:

The recipe uses oil for cooking, which adds extra calories and fat
Sour cream is high in saturated fat and calories
The sodium content may be elevated due to the added salt and canned tomatoes

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Use a non-stick pan or cooking spray instead of oil to reduce the calorie and fat content
Opt for low-fat or non-fat sour cream to decrease the saturated fat and calorie count
Reduce the amount of added salt and choose low-sodium chicken broth and canned tomatoes to control the sodium levels
Increase the proportion of vegetables in the dish, such as adding more bell peppers or incorporating other nutrient-dense options like mushrooms or spinach
Serve the paprikash with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables instead of pasta or potatoes to boost the overall nutrient profile and lower the carbohydrate content
Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a slight increase in fiber

Editor's Opinion on Easy Chicken Paprikash Recipe

This chicken paprikash recipe is straightforward and flavorful, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. The combination of sweet paprika and chili flakes adds a delightful depth of flavor, while the sour cream and flour mixture ensures a creamy, thickened sauce. The use of chicken thighs provides a tender and juicy texture. Serving it with pasta, rice, or potatoes offers versatility. However, consider browning the chicken more thoroughly for added flavor and texture. Overall, it's a well-balanced dish that's both comforting and satisfying.

Enhance Your Easy Chicken Paprikash Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Elevate your meal with these crispy brussels sprouts drizzled in a tangy balsamic glaze. The slight bitterness of the sprouts pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the chicken paprikash.

Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: Swap out traditional mashed potatoes for this creamy, garlicky cauliflower mash. It’s a lighter, yet equally satisfying, accompaniment that complements the hearty chicken dish.

Herbed Quinoa Salad: Herbed Quinoa Salad: Add a refreshing touch with a quinoa salad bursting with fresh herbs, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes. The light and zesty flavors provide a delightful contrast to the rich, savory paprikash.

Crispy Parmesan Asparagus: Crispy Parmesan Asparagus: These asparagus spears are roasted to perfection and sprinkled with parmesan cheese. The crisp texture and cheesy goodness make them an irresistible side to your chicken paprikash.

Honey-Glazed Carrots: Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots glazed with honey and a hint of thyme. This side dish adds a touch of sweetness and a pop of color to your plate, balancing the savory notes of the main course.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Chicken Paprikash

Hungarian Goulash: Dive into the rich flavors of Hungarian Goulash—a hearty stew made with tender beef, potatoes, and a medley of vegetables. This dish is seasoned with paprika and other spices, simmered to perfection for a comforting meal.

Chicken Stroganoff: Experience the creamy delight of Chicken Stroganoff. This dish features succulent chicken pieces cooked in a luscious sauce made with sour cream, mushrooms, and a hint of mustard. Serve over pasta or rice for a complete meal.

Beef Paprikash: Savor the robust taste of Beef Paprikash. This dish uses tender beef chunks simmered in a rich, paprika-infused sauce with onions and bell peppers. Perfectly paired with potatoes or dumplings.

Vegetarian Paprikash: Enjoy a meat-free version with Vegetarian Paprikash. This dish features a variety of vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers cooked in a flavorful paprika sauce. Serve with rice or pasta for a wholesome meal.

Chicken Cacciatore: Indulge in the Italian classic Chicken Cacciatore. This dish combines chicken with tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, all simmered in a savory sauce. Serve with pasta or polenta for an authentic experience.

Perfect Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for This Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start your meal. Imagine tender mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, herbs, and cheese. The filling is perfectly seasoned and baked until golden brown, creating a crispy top that contrasts beautifully with the juicy mushrooms. These bite-sized treats are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor, making them an excellent choice for any gathering.

Caprese Skewers: Caprese Skewers offer a fresh and vibrant start to your dining experience. Picture cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves threaded onto skewers, drizzled with a touch of balsamic glaze. The combination of creamy mozzarella, sweet and juicy tomatoes, and aromatic basil creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is both refreshing and satisfying. These skewers are not only easy to prepare but also a visually stunning addition to any appetizer spread.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a warm, molten chocolate center that oozes out as you cut into a perfectly baked cake. This decadent treat pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast between the warm, gooey chocolate and the cold, creamy ice cream creates a sensational experience for your taste buds. Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Envision a buttery, flaky crust filled with a tangy lemon curd and topped with a cloud of golden-brown meringue. The lemon curd offers a refreshing tartness that balances the sweetness of the meringue. Serve this pie chilled for a delightful contrast in textures and flavors. Garnish with a few lemon zest curls to enhance the citrusy aroma.

Why trust this Easy Chicken Paprikash Recipe:

This easy chicken paprikash recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a comforting and flavorful meal. The combination of sweet paprika and chili flakes creates a rich, aromatic sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken thighs. With simple ingredients like onion, bell pepper, and sour cream, this dish is both accessible and delicious. The step-by-step instructions ensure that even novice cooks can achieve a restaurant-quality result. Serve it with pasta, rice, or potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.

Share your thoughts on this Easy Chicken Paprikash Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make it even better!

FAQ:

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

I usually check if the chicken is cooked by cutting into it and making sure there's no pink inside. You can also use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C) when inserted into the thickest part.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely, you can use chicken breasts if you prefer. Just keep in mind that breasts might cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

What kind of tomatoes should I use?

I typically use canned crushed tomatoes for convenience, but you can also use fresh tomatoes if you prefer. Just make sure to chop them finely.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make chicken paprikash ahead of time. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving.

What can I serve with chicken paprikash?

I love serving chicken paprikash with pasta, rice, or potatoes. It soaks up the delicious sauce really well. Egg noodles are a classic choice too!