There are few dishes that can instantly transport you to another country, and Hungarian Paprikash is one of those meals that does just that. Imagine tender chicken stewed in a rich, creamy paprika sauce, infused with deep, smoky flavors and a hint of heat. If you’ve never tried it, you’re in for a treat. Growing up, this was one of my favorite meals, especially on those chilly, cozy evenings when you need something comforting yet full of flavor.
Hungarian Paprikash, or csirkepaprikás in Hungarian, is a quintessential dish in Hungarian cuisine. It’s a simple yet incredibly satisfying dish that celebrates the country’s love for paprika—a spice that’s synonymous with Hungarian cooking. It’s the kind of dish that gets better as it simmers, with the paprika sauce slowly infusing its flavor into the chicken, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
In this post, I’m going to walk you through the history of Hungarian Paprikash, share how to make it, and explain why this dish holds a special place in Hungarian culture. Whether you’re familiar with Hungarian cuisine or this is your first introduction to it, I think you’ll agree that Hungarian Paprikash is a dish worth trying!
The History of Hungarian Paprikash
Hungarian Paprikash dates back to the 18th century, and it’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into a comforting and flavorful meal. The dish is traditionally made with chicken (though you can also use pork or beef), onions, paprika, and sour cream, all simmered together to create a velvety, rich sauce.
Paprika, which is the star of the dish, was brought to Hungary by the Ottomans in the 16th century. It quickly became a key ingredient in Hungarian kitchens, used in everything from stews to sausages to soups. The smoky, sweet, and spicy flavors of paprika complement the rich, creamy sauce that defines Paprikash, making it a dish that’s loved by many.
What I find particularly appealing about this dish is its versatility. While it’s often made with chicken, you can adapt it depending on what’s available. And, no matter how you make it, Hungarian Paprikash is always packed with comforting flavors that remind you of home.
How to Make Hungarian Paprikash
Making Hungarian Paprikash at home is a breeze once you’ve gathered your ingredients. The recipe has a few basic steps, but it’s the technique of slowly simmering the chicken in the paprika sauce that truly brings out the flavor. Here’s how you can make it:
Ingredients:
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1 whole chicken (cut into pieces), or around 4-6 bone-in chicken thighs or breasts
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2 medium onions, finely chopped
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2 tablespoons sweet paprika (Hungarian paprika is best)
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1 tablespoon hot paprika (optional, for some heat)
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil or lard
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup chicken broth (or water)
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1 cup sour cream
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1 tablespoon flour (optional, for thickening)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Wide egg noodles (or rice) to serve
Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook
2. Brown the Chicken
Add the chicken pieces to the pan and brown them on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Don’t worry about cooking them through at this stage—they’ll finish cooking in the paprika sauce. Remove the chicken and set it aside for a moment.
3. Add the Paprika
Sprinkle the sweet and hot paprika over the onions and garlic. Stir well to coat the onions with the paprika and cook for about 2 minutes, letting the paprika bloom and release its fragrance. This is where the dish gets its signature flavor, so take your time here.
4. Simmer with Broth
Return the chicken to the pot and pour in the chicken broth (or water). Bring everything to a simmer, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let the chicken cook for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk the sour cream with the flour (if using) until smooth. Once the chicken is cooked, remove the pieces from the pot and set them aside. Stir the sour cream mixture into the sauce, stirring constantly to create a creamy consistency. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Add salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve
Return the chicken to the pan, spooning some of the sauce over the pieces. Allow everything to simmer together for a few minutes. Serve the Paprikash hot, garnished with fresh parsley, alongside egg noodles or rice to soak up all that creamy goodness.
Tips for the Perfect Hungarian Paprikash
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Paprika Quality: The key to a great Paprikash is quality paprika. Hungarian paprika is widely available and gives the dish an authentic flavor. You can find it in mild, sweet varieties, or hotter versions if you like a little kick.
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Don’t Rush the Cooking: The slow simmering of the chicken is what makes this dish so delicious. Take your time and let the chicken absorb the flavors of the sauce. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor.
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Customize the Heat: If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add more hot paprika or even a pinch of cayenne pepper. On the other hand, if you like it milder, stick to just the sweet paprika.
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Sour Cream: The sour cream is essential for giving the sauce its creamy richness and slight tang. If you prefer, you can use crème fraîche, but sour cream is the traditional choice.
Why Hungarian Paprikash is So Special
Hungarian Paprikash is more than just a dish—it’s a piece of Hungarian culture. This comforting, hearty meal reflects the heart of Hungarian cuisine: simple ingredients, rich flavors, and a focus on bringing out the best in every element. The use of paprika as the cornerstone ingredient makes it uniquely Hungarian, and the creamy, velvety sauce is what makes it so comforting and satisfying.
What I love most about Hungarian Paprikash is how it brings people together. It’s a dish that’s perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or simply a cozy night in. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying it on your own, this dish has a way of making any meal feel like a celebration.
Conclusion
Hungarian Paprikash is a dish that is as rich in history as it is in flavor. With its tender chicken, creamy paprika sauce, and comforting texture, it’s no wonder that this dish has become a beloved classic. Whether you’re already a fan of Hungarian cuisine or you’re trying it for the first time, I highly recommend giving it a try. It’s a simple dish that delivers incredible flavor, and once you make it at home, you’ll understand why it’s a staple of Hungarian cooking.
So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to indulge in this delicious, soul-warming dish. Hungarian Paprikash is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen as well!
