Are you ready to spice up your chicken game? Look no further than Chicken Paprikash, a creamy and flavorful Hungarian dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With its rich paprika flavor and velvety sauce, it’s no wonder this recipe has captured the hearts of foodies around the world.
But why settle for just one way to make Chicken Paprikash when you can try 20 different twists on this classic? From traditional recipes with sour cream to innovative variations featuring jalapeños, egg noodles, and even vegan mushroom “chicken” – we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of creamy Chicken Paprikash, showcasing the most mouthwatering and creative recipes that will keep you coming back for more.
Classic Hungarian Chicken Paprikash with Sour Cream
Classic Hungarian Chicken Paprikash with Sour Cream: A hearty and flavorful stew that combines tender chicken, aromatic paprika, and a rich sour cream sauce.
Slow Cooker Chicken Paprikash with Dumplings
This hearty, comforting dish is a twist on the classic Hungarian paprikash recipe. Tender chicken and fluffy dumplings simmered in a rich, smoky paprika broth – perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Dumpling ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup warm water, 1 egg, salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the chicken in a skillet with oil; set aside.
2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the same skillet; cook until softened.
3. Transfer everything to the slow cooker with paprika, caraway seeds, flour, chicken broth, water, and browned chicken.
4. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
5. Prepare dumplings by combining flour, warm water, egg, and salt; mix until a dough forms.
6. Drop spoonfuls of the dough into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
One-Pot Chicken Paprikash and Egg Noodles
This Hungarian-inspired dish is a comforting one-pot wonder that combines tender chicken, flavorful paprika, and egg noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 8 oz egg noodles
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in paprika, black pepper, broth, and cream. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return chicken to pot; reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions.
7. Serve chicken mixture over cooked noodles, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Chicken Paprikash with Jalapeños
A Hungarian-inspired dish gets a spicy kick from jalapeños, creating a flavorful and bold paprikash that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup sour cream (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the onions and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the jalapeños, paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Return the chicken to the pot and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Stir in sour cream (if using) and serve hot, garnished with parsley (if desired).
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Vegan Mushroom Paprikash (Chicken-Style)
This hearty, Hungarian-inspired stew is a game-changer for vegan comfort food lovers. With tender mushrooms and a rich, paprika-spiced broth, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms, garlic, smoked paprika, sweet paprika, and caraway seeds. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Paprika Chicken Paprikash
This traditional Hungarian recipe is a staple of comfort food, with tender chicken, rich paprika sauce, and soft noodles. Smoked paprika adds a deep, smoky flavor to this beloved dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 8 oz egg noodles
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the chicken; cook until browned on all sides.
4. Add the smoked paprika, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions.
7. Serve the chicken and sauce over the noodles. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Paprikash with Bell Peppers
This hearty Hungarian-inspired stew is a perfect blend of tender chicken, sweet bell peppers, and aromatic spices, all cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp caraway seeds
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the inner pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced bell peppers, paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chicken thighs and stir to coat with the vegetable mixture.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and water, then close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Gluten-Free Chicken Paprikash with Cauliflower Rice
A Hungarian-inspired dish gets a gluten-free twist with this flavorful and comforting recipe. Tender chicken, aromatic paprika, and creamy cauliflower rice come together for a deliciously easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– 1/2 cup gluten-free chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 cups cauliflower florets
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, paprika, and caraway seeds. Cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in broth and cream or half-and-half. Bring to a simmer.
4. Prepare cauliflower rice by pulsing florets in a food processor until they resemble rice.
5. Add cauliflower rice to the skillet; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Chicken Paprikash Soup
This hearty Hungarian-inspired soup is a comforting blend of chicken, vegetables, and creamy paprika flavor. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a satisfying lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken, onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until chicken is browned and vegetables are tender.
2. Add diced tomatoes, broth, smoked paprika, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until flavors meld.
3. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Simmer soup for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to combine.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken Paprikash Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your stuffed pepper game with this Chicken Paprikash Stuffed Peppers recipe, infusing the classic Hungarian dish with the convenience of bell peppers. This comforting and flavorful twist is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup Chicken Paprikash sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Stuff each pepper with the chicken mixture, rice, and Chicken Paprikash sauce.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Hungarian Chicken Paprikash with Spaetzle
A classic Hungarian dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful paprika sauce, and homemade spaetzle noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup spaetzle noodles (see below for recipe)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic, caraway seeds, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return chicken to the skillet and cook until coated with sauce, about 10-12 minutes.
6. Serve chicken with spaetzle noodles and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Spaetzle Noodles:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 tsp salt
Combine flour and salt in a bowl. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a dough forms. Roll out to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into noodles using a sharp knife or pasta cutter. Cook spaetzle in boiling water for 3-5 minutes, or until tender.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes
Keto Chicken Paprikash with Zucchini Noodles
This recipe is a creative twist on the traditional Hungarian dish, Paprikash. By substituting zucchini noodles for traditional pasta, we’ve made this classic comfort food keto-friendly.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, onion, garlic, paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until sauce has thickened.
4. Spiralize zucchini into noodles and add to the skillet with the paprikash sauce. Toss to combine.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-22 minutes
Chicken Paprikash Casserole with Cheese Topping
This hearty casserole combines the rich flavors of Chicken Paprikash with a creamy cheese topping, perfect for a comforting meal. With tender chicken, sautéed onions and bell peppers, and a hint of paprika, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package directions, then set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken, onion, and bell peppers in olive oil until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add paprika, caraway seeds, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with cooked macaroni.
6. Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top, followed by Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Grilled Chicken Paprikash Skewers
A flavorful twist on traditional paprikash, these grilled skewers combine juicy chicken, tangy paprika, and aromatic herbs for a deliciously easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 10-12 wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken pieces and toss until coated.
3. Thread chicken, parsley, and any other desired herbs onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken reaches internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as rice pilaf, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Chicken Paprikash Meatballs in Creamy Sauce
This recipe combines the flavors of traditional Hungarian paprikash with the convenience of meatballs, served in a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, olive oil, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, combine chicken broth and heavy cream in a large saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Add the baked meatballs to the creamy sauce and let simmer for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Paprikash Pizza with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your pizza game with this unique fusion of flavors, combining the rich spices of Chicken Paprikash with sweet caramelized onions and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1 cup cooked chicken paprikash (see recipe or use store-bought)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread cooked chicken paprikash over the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
4. In a large skillet, caramelize onions in olive oil over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Top pizza with caramelized onions and mozzarella cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden and cheese is melted.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Paprikash Tacos with Lime Crema
Experience the bold flavors of Hungary and Mexico in one delicious taco! This recipe combines juicy chicken, crispy paprika-spiced tortillas, and a tangy lime crema for a unique twist on traditional tacos.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime Crema (see below)
– Chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and crumbled queso fresco (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Wrap tortillas in foil and warm in oven for 5-7 minutes.
5. Assemble tacos by placing cooked chicken onto warmed tortillas. Serve with Lime Crema, cilantro, lime wedges, and queso fresco (if using).
Lime Crema:
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– Juice of 1 lime
– 1 tsp honey
Mix all ingredients until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Paprikash Flatbread with Fresh Herbs
Elevate your flatbread game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of chicken paprikash with the brightness of fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup flatbread dough (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh herbs: parsley, dill, and chives
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a pan, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add cooked chicken, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Roll out flatbread dough to desired thickness. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the flatbread, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Top with fresh herbs.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown and toppings are heated through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chicken Paprikash Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
Warm up to a hearty, comforting pot pie filled with tender chicken, rich paprika sauce, and flaky crust. This Hungarian-inspired dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, garlic, and paprika until chicken is cooked through.
3. Add flour, chicken broth, and heavy cream; stir until thickened.
4. Stir in mixed vegetables and season with salt and pepper.
5. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish.
6. Fill the crust with the chicken mixture and top with additional crust or a pastry lid.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken Paprikash Deviled Eggs
A twist on classic deviled eggs, these bite-sized treats incorporate the bold flavors of Hungarian Chicken Paprikash. Perfect for your next potluck or gathering!
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and cooled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled cooked chicken (from Chicken Paprikash recipe)
– 1 tablespoon grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut eggs in half lengthwise.
2. Scoop out yolks and place in a bowl.
3. Add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper to the bowl; mix until smooth.
4. Stir in chopped parsley and crumbled chicken.
5. Spoon the yolk mixture into the egg white halves.
6. Sprinkle with grated cheddar cheese (if using).
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe is a modification of deviled eggs.
Summary
Get ready to spice up your culinary routine with these creative twists on classic Chicken Paprikash recipes! From traditional Hungarian dishes to modern takes featuring sour cream, jalapeños, and cauliflower rice, there’s something for everyone. Try making a slow cooker version with dumplings, or add some heat with spicy paprika. Even vegans can join in on the fun with mushroom-based alternatives. Whether you’re craving comfort food or looking for a healthier option, these 20 creamy chicken recipes are sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more!
