Chicken Paprikash (Hungarian Paprika Chicken – Creamy, Cozy & Easy)

This chicken paprikash is a rich, creamy Hungarian paprika chicken made with tender chicken simmered in a flavorful paprika sauce. Inspired by traditional Hungarian recipes, this easy version delivers authentic flavor with simple steps, making it perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or comforting family meals.

If you love hearty dishes like Hungarian Goulash or cozy comfort meals like Stuffed Cabbage (Golabki), this creamy chicken paprikash is another classic to add to your rotation. For more comforting recipes, explore the Eastern European Comfort Food Recipes.

Why You’ll Love This

• Authentic Hungarian flavor made simple

• Rich, creamy paprika sauce that’s deeply comforting

• One-pan style meal with simple ingredients

• Perfect for cozy dinners or weekend cooking

• Pairs beautifully with noodles, rice, or dumplings

Recipe Card

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 40 minutes

• Total Time: 55 minutes

• Servings: 4

Nutrition Information

(Estimated per serving)

• Calories: 430 kcal

• Protein: 32 g

• Carbohydrates: 12 g

• Fat: 28 g

• Fiber: 2 g

• Sugar: 4 g

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless if preferred)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 large onion, finely sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons Hungarian sweet paprika

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth

• ½ cup (120 ml) sour cream

• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.

2. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sear until golden on both sides. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same pan, cook the onion until soft and lightly caramelized, about 8–10 minutes.

4. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.

5. Remove from heat briefly and stir in paprika (prevents burning).

6. Add tomato paste and stir to combine.

7. Pour in chicken broth and stir well.

8. Return chicken to the pan, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes until cooked through.

9. In a bowl, whisk sour cream and flour until smooth.

10. Temper with a little hot sauce, then stir into the pan.

11. Simmer gently for 5 minutes until thick and creamy.

12. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

What to Serve With

• Serve over egg noodles or dumplings for a traditional pairing

• Pair with Potato & Cheese Pierogi for a cozy comfort meal

• Add Garlic Mushrooms or Garden Salad to balance the richness

Tips & Variations

• Use Hungarian paprika for the most authentic flavor

• Don’t overheat after adding sour cream to prevent curdling

• Boneless chicken works for a quicker version

• Add bell peppers for extra flavor and texture

• For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream

Make-Ahead & Storage

• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days

• Reheat gently on low heat

• Not ideal for freezing due to the cream sauce

• Add a splash of broth when reheating if needed

FAQ

What is chicken paprikash?

It’s a traditional Hungarian dish made with chicken simmered in a paprika-based sauce.

Is chicken paprikash spicy?

No, it’s rich and flavorful, not spicy unless you add heat.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, and the flavor improves the next day.

What’s the best paprika to use?

Hungarian sweet paprika is the most authentic choice.

Final Thoughts

This easy chicken paprikash brings traditional Hungarian flavor into a simple, approachable recipe perfect for modern kitchens. Creamy, comforting, and full of rich paprika flavor, it’s a dish you’ll come back to again and again. If you’re building a cozy comfort food rotation, explore our Skillet & One-Pan Dinner Recipes.