Hungarian Chicken Paprikash with Creamy Paprika Sauce

Indulge in a rich, creamy Chicken Paprikash that pairs perfectly with egg noodles or pasta. This classic Hungarian comfort dish features tender chicken simmered in a savory sauce made with smoked paprika, onions, garlic, and tomatoes for a deep, warm flavor.

Chicken is an easy, reliable choice when you want a satisfying weeknight meal with bold flavor. If you enjoy this recipe, try other simple chicken dishes from your collection to vary the menu and keep dinner interesting.

Easy Chicken Paprikash Recipe

Chicken Paprikash comes from Hungary, a country celebrated for hearty, flavorful cuisine. The dish combines chicken pieces with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and generous amounts of paprika. After the chicken is lightly cooked, a creamy sauce is created by stirring in sour cream and heavy cream, making the finished dish silky and comforting.

This version is straightforward and designed for home cooks: minimal prep, simple ingredients, and a total cook time of about 30 minutes. Serve it over egg noodles or dumplings for a traditional presentation. The finished dish is both comforting and bright, thanks to the tomatoes and paprika, and makes a great family favorite for busy nights.

Ingredients in Hungarian Chicken Paprikash

The ingredient list is short but flavorful. Smoked paprika is a key component, offering a slightly smoky, earthy warmth that defines this version of paprikash. Exact amounts are included in the recipe card below, but the following ingredients are the essentials you’ll need:

• Vegetable oil – for sautéing the vegetables and chicken.
• Yellow onion – minced, provides a sweet, savory base.
• Garlic – minced, for aromatic depth.
• Roma tomatoes – minced for a fresh, slightly tangy component.
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – cut into pieces; you can use thighs if preferred.
• Smoked paprika – the star spice of the dish.
• Salt and black pepper – to taste, to enhance and balance flavors.
• Chicken broth – builds the sauce base and adds richness.
• All-purpose flour – used to thicken the sauce to a silky consistency.
• Sour cream – adds tang and creaminess; plain Greek yogurt can be substituted.
• Heavy whipping cream – enriches the sauce and smooths the texture.

How to Make Chicken Paprikash

This recipe is ideal when you want a hearty meal without complicated steps. Follow these simple stages to get a rich, well-balanced dish.

1. Sauté the onions: Warm the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the minced onion and cook until softened and just beginning to brown.
2. Add garlic and tomatoes: Stir in the garlic and minced tomatoes and sauté for 2–3 minutes to release their flavors.
3. Cook the chicken: Add the chicken pieces, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5–8 minutes until the chicken is nearly cooked through and well coated in paprika.
4. Simmer with broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Lower the heat and simmer for 4–5 minutes to meld the flavors.
5. Thicken and finish the sauce: Whisk in the flour carefully to prevent lumps, then simmer until the liquid starts to thicken. Stir in sour cream and heavy whipping cream, and continue to simmer gently, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until the sauce is glossy and creamy.
6. Serve: Spoon the paprikash over freshly cooked noodles or dumplings and serve hot.