Hearty Chicken Paprikash: A Traditional Hungarian Comfort Dish

Chicken Paprikash is a classic Hungarian dish known for its rich, creamy sauce and bold flavors. This dish features tender chicken pieces simmered in a robust sauce made from paprika, tomatoes, and sour cream. It is traditionally served over egg noodles or with dumplings, making it a comforting meal perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:
For the chicken:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika
– 1 teaspoon hot Hungarian paprika (optional, for extra heat)
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup sour cream
– Salt and pepper to taste

For serving:
– Egg noodles or dumplings
– Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season them with salt and pepper on both sides.

2. Sear the chicken: In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook until the skin is golden brown and crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté over medium heat until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently.

4. Add the paprika and vegetables: Sprinkle the sweet and hot Hungarian paprika over the onions and garlic, stirring to coat them evenly. Add the sliced bell pepper and cook for a couple more minutes until the peppers begin to soften.

5. Incorporate the tomato paste and broth: Stir in the tomato paste, making sure it is well combined with the other ingredients. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

6. Simmer the chicken: Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, placing them skin-side up. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the chicken simmer gently for about 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

7. Finish the sauce: Remove the chicken thighs from the skillet once more. Stir the sour cream into the sauce until well blended and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

8. Serve: Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Serve the Chicken Paprikash over egg noodles or dumplings, garnished with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

Enjoy your hearty bowl of Chicken Paprikash!