Traditional Hungarian Paprikás Csirke: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients

  • 1.5 kg Chicken (cut into pieces)
  • 2 tablespoons Sunflower Oil
  • 2 large Onions (finely chopped)
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 2 tablespoons Sweet Paprika
  • 400g Canned Tomatoes (chopped)
  • 2 Green Bell Peppers (sliced)
  • 1 Red Bell Pepper (sliced)
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 250 ml Sour Cream
  • Fresh Parsley (for garnish)

Steps and instructions

  1. Heat the sunflower oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the chicken pieces to the pot and brown on all sides. Once browned, remove the chicken and set aside.
  3. In the same pot, add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic, cook until the onions are translucent.
  4. Add the sweet paprika to the onions and garlic, stir well to combine.
  5. Return the browned chicken pieces to the pot, add the chopped canned tomatoes, sliced green and red bell peppers. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
  6. Season with salt and black pepper.
  7. Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for about 60 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
  8. Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the sour cream until well combined.
  9. Continue to cook for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  10. Once done, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
  11. Serve the Paprikás Csirke with steamed rice or noodles.

Tools for making

  • Large Pot - Needed to cook the Paprikás Csirke.
  • Cooking Spoon - Used for stirring and combining the ingredients.
  • Cutting Board - Used for chopping the onions and slicing the bell peppers.
  • Knife - Used for cutting the chicken into pieces and mincing the garlic.
  • Measuring Spoons - Needed to accurately measure the salt, paprika, and black pepper.
  • Can Opener - Used to open the canned tomatoes.
  • Serving Dish - Used for serving the finished Paprikás Csirke.

Recipe variations

  • Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of chicken pieces.
  • Replace the chicken with tofu for a vegetarian version.
  • Add sliced mushrooms to the dish for extra flavor.
  • Try using smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
  • Experiment with different types of bell peppers, such as yellow or orange.
  • Include some diced tomatoes or tomato paste for a thicker sauce.
  • Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of spiciness.
  • For a creamier version, use heavy cream instead of sour cream.
  • Serve the Paprikás Csirke over mashed potatoes instead of rice or noodles.
  • Top with grated cheese before serving for a cheesy variation.

Recipe overview

Paprikás Csirke, also known as Hungarian Paprika Chicken, is a popular dish from Hungary that's rich, comforting and full of warming flavors. The dish is characterized by its generous use of paprika, giving it a deep, vibrant color and a distinct flavor. Chicken pieces are slow-cooked to tender perfection in a deliciously creamy, paprika-infused sauce, with hints of sweet pepper and tomato adding to the complexity of the dish. The recipe concludes with a dollop of sour cream stirred in for an extra creamy finish. Served traditionally with rice or noodles, this dish is sure to become a comforting staple in your cooking repertoire. Join us as we guide you through the step-by-step process of creating this exquisite dish.

Common questions

  1. Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
    Yes, boneless chicken can be used for this recipe. However, using bone-in chicken pieces adds more flavor to the dish.
  2. What can I serve Paprikás Csirke with?
    Paprikás Csirke is traditionally served with steamed rice or egg noodles. You can choose whichever you prefer.
  3. Can I use a different type of paprika?
    Sweet paprika is the most commonly used type for this recipe as it gives a mild and sweet flavor. However, you can experiment with other types of paprika like smoked or hot paprika if you prefer a different level of spiciness or smokiness.
  4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
    Absolutely! Paprikás Csirke actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Simply refrigerate the leftovers and reheat when ready to serve.
  5. Can I freeze Paprikás Csirke?
    Yes, you can freeze Paprikás Csirke. It is recommended to freeze the dish without the sour cream. When you are ready to serve, thaw the frozen dish and add the sour cream while reheating.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Cutting Board - For chopping onions, garlic, and slicing bell peppers.
  • Chef's Knife - Essential for cutting the chicken into pieces and other chopping tasks.
  • Large Pot - To cook the chicken and sauce.
  • Wooden Spoon - For stirring and combining the ingredients in the pot.
  • Measuring Spoons - To accurately measure the sweet paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  • Can Opener - Needed to open the canned tomatoes.
  • Serving Platter - To present the Paprikás Csirke when serving.
  • Cooked Rice or Noodles - Accompaniments to serve with the Paprikás Csirke.

Origin stories

Paprikás Csirke, or chicken paprikash, is a comforting Hungarian classic that is steeped in history. The dish traces its roots back to the 19th century rural Hungary where it was a common meal among peasants due to its simplicity and the readily available ingredients. The heart and soul of Paprikás Csirke is the generous use of Hungarian paprika, a national spice that was only introduced to Hungary in the 16th century. Folklore has it that peppers were first brought to south Hungary by the Turks, and over the centuries, they evolved into the paprika spice through a process of selective cultivation. Today, Paprikás Csirke is not just a beloved family meal in Hungary, but it has also gained international fame, symbolizing the warmth and hospitality of Hungarian cuisine.

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.