17+ Chicken Paprikash Recipes

There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming plate of chicken paprikash, with its rich, velvety sauce and tender chicken pieces. This Hungarian classic has found its way into hearts and kitchens around the world, and for good reason.

Classic Hungarian Chicken Paprikash

This traditional recipe is the heart and soul of chicken paprikash, capturing the essence of Hungarian cuisine. With bone-in chicken simmered to perfection in a rich paprika-laden sauce, it’s a dish that speaks of warmth and home.

The secret to its flavor lies in the sweet Hungarian paprika, which imparts a deep, smoky sweetness to the dish. Combined with sautéed onions, garlic, and bell peppers, the sauce becomes a rich tapestry of flavors. What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity; it relies on quality ingredients and time, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Served traditionally with nokedli, a type of Hungarian dumpling, or over a bed of fluffy rice, this dish is a testament to the power of paprika. It’s a comforting dish that invites you to sit back, relax, and savor every bite.

Slow Cooker Chicken Paprikash

This version of chicken paprikash takes the classic recipe and gives it a modern twist by utilizing the convenience of a slow cooker. Imagine coming home to the aroma of this savory dish wafting through your kitchen!

In this recipe, the slow cooking process allows the chicken to become incredibly tender, practically falling off the bone. The low, slow heat coaxes out the flavors of the sweet paprika, garlic, and onions, creating a sauce that’s deeply flavorful and oh-so-satisfying. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a homemade meal without the fuss.

Spicy Chicken Paprikash

For those who like a little heat, this spicy chicken paprikash is just the ticket. By adding a touch of hot paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper, this recipe kicks up the spice level just enough to make your taste buds tingle.

The fiery notes are balanced beautifully by the creamy sauce, which mellows out the heat and ensures that each bite is perfectly balanced. A squeeze of lemon over the top just before serving adds a zesty finish that brightens the dish.

This recipe is perfect for adventurous eaters looking to spice up their usual chicken dinner. It’s a simple way to add some excitement to your weeknight meals without straying too far from the comforting flavors you love.

Chicken Paprikash with Mushrooms

Adding mushrooms to chicken paprikash might not be traditional, but it sure is delicious! The earthy flavor of mushrooms complements the sweet paprika, creating a dish that’s rich and satisfying.

This variation includes hearty chunks of mushrooms, which not only add depth to the flavor but also make the dish heartier. It’s a one-pot meal that’s as comforting as it is flavorful. The mushrooms soak up the sauce, becoming little flavor bombs with every bite.

If you love mushrooms, this is the recipe for you. It’s a simple addition that transforms the dish into something even more special.

Chicken Paprikash with Sour Cream and Dill

This version of chicken paprikash includes a generous dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill, adding a tangy and fresh note to the classic dish. The sour cream makes the sauce extra creamy and luxurious.

The fresh dill adds a pop of color and a hint of brightness that lifts the dish, making it feel light and vibrant while still being hearty and comforting. Every spoonful is a delightful mix of creamy sauce and tender chicken, with the dill providing a fresh contrast.

Vegan “Chicken” Paprikash

For those who prefer a plant-based diet, this vegan version of chicken paprikash uses hearty tofu or seitan in place of chicken. It’s a delicious alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

The tofu or seitan is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce and paprika before being seared to perfection, ensuring it’s flavorful and satisfying. The sauce, made with vegetable broth and a touch of nutritional yeast, retains its traditional flavor profile, offering all the depth and richness you expect from a good paprikash.

This recipe proves that you don’t need meat to enjoy the comforting flavors of chicken paprikash. It’s a great way to enjoy a classic dish while sticking to a plant-based lifestyle.

Pro Tricks for Amazing Chicken Paprikash

Use Sweet Hungarian Paprika

For the best flavor, choose sweet Hungarian paprika, which has a rich, smoky sweetness that’s perfect for chicken paprikash. It’s the key ingredient that gives the dish its distinctive taste.

Let It Simmer

Allowing the chicken to simmer slowly in the sauce lets the flavors meld beautifully. Take your time and let the dish cook until the chicken is fall-off-the-bone tender.

Don’t Skip the Sour Cream

Adding sour cream at the end brings creaminess and tang that balances the flavors. Stir it in just before serving for the best texture and taste.