Hungarian Chicken Paprikash (Paprikás Csirke) is one of Hungary’s most iconic and beloved dishes. Tender chicken is slowly simmered in a rich, creamy paprika sauce made with onions, authentic Hungarian sweet paprika, and sour cream, then traditionally served with soft homemade Nokedli (Hungarian egg dumplings). This comforting meal is famous for its velvety texture, vibrant color, and deep, smoky flavor that perfectly represents traditional Hungarian home cooking.
The combination of juicy chicken, silky paprika sauce, and tender dumplings makes Chicken Paprikash a timeless family favorite enjoyed throughout Hungary.
Why You’ll Love This Hungarian Chicken Paprikash Recipe
- Authentic Hungarian family recipe
- Rich, creamy paprika sauce
- Tender, juicy chicken
- Served with homemade Hungarian dumplings
- Perfect comfort food
- Easy one-pot main course
- Great for family dinners
- Even better the next day
What Is Hungarian Chicken Paprikash?
Chicken Paprikash (pronounced PAH-pree-kash CHEER-keh) is a traditional Hungarian dish that highlights the country’s most famous spice—Hungarian sweet paprika. Chicken pieces are gently braised with onions and paprika before being finished with sour cream, creating a smooth and flavorful sauce.
The dish is almost always served with Nokedli, small Hungarian egg dumplings that absorb the creamy sauce beautifully. Chicken Paprikash has been a staple of Hungarian cuisine for centuries and remains one of the country’s signature comfort foods.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Paprikash
- 2 lbs (900 g) bone-in chicken thighs and drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or lard
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons Hungarian sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon hot Hungarian paprika (optional)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
For the Sour Cream Sauce
- 1 cup full-fat sour cream
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
For the Hungarian Nokedli (Egg Dumplings)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup water (approximately)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter
Kitchen Equipment
- Large Dutch oven or deep skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon
- Large pot
- Spaetzle or Nokedli maker (optional)
- Slotted spoon
