Authentic Hungarian Chicken Paprikash with Twisted Pasta (Csirkepaprikás Copfocskával)
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Heat the oil or lard over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
Brown the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until lightly golden.
Transfer to a plate.
Step 2: Prepare the Paprika Base
Reduce the heat to medium.
Cook the onions until soft and lightly golden.
Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the Hungarian paprika.
Immediately add:
Bell pepper
Tomatoes
Tomato paste
Mix well.
Step 3: Simmer
Return the chicken to the pot.
Pour in the chicken broth.
Cover and simmer over low heat for 40–45 minutes, or until the chicken is tender.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Whisk together:
Sour cream
Flour
Hot cooking liquid
Slowly stir the mixture into the pot.
Cook gently for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
Do not boil after adding the sour cream to keep the sauce smooth.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta until al dente according to the package directions.
Drain and toss with butter.
Step 6: Serve
Arrange the pasta on serving plates.
Top with the creamy chicken paprikash and plenty of paprika sauce.
Garnish with fresh parsley and sliced Hungarian peppers if desired.
Serve immediately.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Paprikash
Use authentic Hungarian sweet paprika for the best flavor.
Avoid adding paprika to very hot oil, as it can become bitter.
Simmer gently to keep the chicken tender.
Temper the sour cream with a little hot cooking liquid before adding it to the pot.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this classic dish with:
Cucumber salad
Pickled vegetables
Crusty bread
Steamed green beans
Fresh tomato salad
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
Freeze the chicken and sauce for up to 3 months.
Cook fresh pasta when ready to serve for the best texture.
Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
Calories: 620
Protein: 38 g
Carbohydrates: 42 g
Fat: 32 g
Fiber: 3 g
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Chicken Paprikash authentic?
Authentic Chicken Paprikash uses Hungarian sweet paprika, onions, chicken, broth, and sour cream to create its signature creamy sauce.
Can I use chicken breast?
Yes, but thighs and drumsticks stay juicier and provide a richer flavor.
What can I serve instead of twisted pasta?
Traditional Nokedli (Hungarian dumplings) are the classic accompaniment, but egg noodles, spaetzle, or buttered pasta also pair wonderfully.
Final Thoughts
Authentic Hungarian Chicken Paprikash with Twisted Pasta is a timeless comfort food that showcases the rich flavors of Hungarian cuisine. Tender chicken, a silky paprika-infused cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in a hearty meal that’s ideal for family dinners or special occasions. One bite of this classic dish will transport you straight to the heart of Hungary. 🇭🇺🍗🍝
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