Authentic Hungarian Csirkepaprikás: A Step-by-Step Recipe Guide

Ingredients

1 large chicken, cut into pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 large onions, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons sweet paprika
1 teaspoon hot paprika (optional)
1 large bell pepper, chopped
2 large tomatoes, chopped
1 cup of chicken stock
1 cup of sour cream
Salt and pepper to taste

Steps and instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Add the chicken pieces to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they are browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, add the onions and garlic and sauté until they are translucent.
Add the sweet and hot paprika to the onions and garlic, stirring well to combine. Cook for a minute to allow the flavors to meld.
Add the chopped bell pepper and tomatoes to the pan, stirring well to combine with the onion and paprika mixture.
Return the chicken to the pan, add the chicken stock, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the pan and let it cook for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the sour cream until it is well incorporated.
Serve the Csirkepaprikás hot, ideally over a bed of egg noodles or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Tools for making

Large pan - A large pan will be needed to cook the chicken and prepare the Csirkepaprikás.
Knife - A knife will be needed to chop the onions, garlic, bell pepper, and tomatoes.
Cutting board - A cutting board will be needed to safely chop the vegetables.
Stirring spoon - A stirring spoon will be used to stir the ingredients in the pan.
Measuring cups - Measuring cups will be needed to measure the chicken stock and sour cream.
Serving plates - Plates will be needed to serve the finished Csirkepaprikás.

Recipe variations

Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of chicken pieces.
Add sliced mushrooms to the dish for an earthy flavor.
Include chopped carrots and potatoes to make it a one-pot meal.
Replace chicken with pork or beef for a different protein option.
Add a splash of white wine or lemon juice for a tangy twist.
Experiment with different types of paprika, such as smoked or Hungarian paprika, to vary the flavor profile.
For a spicier kick, add chopped chili peppers or cayenne pepper to the dish.
Make it vegetarian by using tofu or tempeh instead of chicken and vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
Try serving the Csirkepaprikás over rice or quinoa instead of egg noodles.
Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added freshness.

Recipe overview

Csirkepaprikás, or Chicken Paprikash, is a traditional Hungarian dish known for its rich, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors. It's a comforting and hearty meal that's perfect for a cozy dinner at home. The dish is centered around tender chicken, which is first browned, then simmered in a delicious mixture of onion, garlic, bell pepper, tomatoes, and of course, a healthy dose of paprika. A dollop of sour cream at the end adds a creamy finish, making the sauce irresistibly tasty. This dish is typically served over egg noodles or with a chunk of crusty bread. With this recipe, you can expect to take a delightful culinary journey to the heart of Eastern Europe right from your kitchen. Enjoy this authentic, flavorful adventure!

Common questions

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken for Csirkepaprikás. However, keep in mind that bone-in chicken adds more flavor to the dish.
Is hot paprika necessary?
No, hot paprika is optional. If you prefer a milder version, you can omit the hot paprika or adjust the amount to your taste.
Can I substitute sour cream with yogurt?
Yes, you can substitute sour cream with plain yogurt if you prefer. It will give the dish a slightly tangier flavor.
What can I serve with Csirkepaprikás?
Traditionally, Csirkepaprikás is served over a bed of egg noodles or with a side of crusty bread. You can also serve it with rice or mashed potatoes.
Can I make Csirkepaprikás ahead of time?
Yes, Csirkepaprikás can be made ahead of time. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Simply reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the oven before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

Large pan - A large pan is needed to cook the chicken and sauce.
Knife and cutting board - These tools are essential for chopping onions, garlic, bell pepper, and tomatoes.
Measuring spoons - Measuring spoons are helpful for accurately measuring the sweet paprika, hot paprika, and salt.
Spatula or wooden spoon - A spatula or wooden spoon is useful for stirring and combining the ingredients in the pan.
Cover or lid - A cover or lid is needed to cover the pan while the chicken is simmering.
Serving plates or bowls - Plates or bowls are necessary for serving the Csirkepaprikás.
Side dishes - Optional sides like egg noodles or crusty bread can be served with the Csirkepaprikás.

Origin stories

Csirkepaprikás, or Chicken Paprikash as it's sometimes known, is a comforting and hearty dish hailing from Hungary. The dish is steeped in history, with the key ingredient, Paprika, only being introduced to Hungary in the 16th century by the Turks. Despite this, it quickly became a staple in Hungarian kitchens, and dishes like Csirkepaprikás began to emerge, each family passing down their version from generation to generation. The dish is so beloved, in fact, that it is often used as a litmus test for a Hungarian cook's prowess in the kitchen. A well-made Csirkepaprikás, with its tender chicken and creamy, flavorful sauce, can transport you straight to the heart of Budapest.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.