Chicken Paprikash and Dumplings Recipe – Hungarian Chef

One of my favorite traditions during chilly months is inviting friends over for a cozy dinner. There’s something special about gathering around a table, sharing hearty dishes, and swapping stories. This Chicken Paprikash with fluffy dumplings is always the star of the show. It pairs exceptionally well with crusty bread for mopping up the delicious gravy, or a crisp side salad to balance the richness.

If you’ve been searching for a dish that feels like a warm hug, look no further than Chicken Paprikash. This classic Hungarian dish features tender chicken bathed in a comforting sauce made with sweet Hungarian paprika, combined beautifully with soft dumplings. It embodies the essence of home-cooked meals—simple yet satisfying, full of flavors that transport your taste buds across continents.

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What is Chicken Paprikash and Dumplings Recipe?

Chicken Paprikash is a traditional Hungarian dish known for its vibrant sauce, which is lovingly crafted from paprika and simmered chicken. The dish often features potatoes or dumplings that soak up the flavor-packed gravy, creating a wonderful harmony of textures and tastes. The dumplings in this recipe are light and fluffy, making them the perfect vessel for the rich paprikash sauce. Together, they create a meal that is both rich in history and delightful on the palate.

Why This Recipe Works?

This recipe harmonizes flavors and textures beautifully. The key ingredients, especially the Hungarian paprika, give the dish its signature color and taste. The chicken, when cooked slowly, becomes incredibly tender and absorbs the spices throughout the cooking process. The dumplings provide a satisfying contrast with their soft texture, perfectly complementing the savory gravy. Together, this dish is not only comforting but also loaded with layers of flavor.

What You’ll Need to Make This Dish

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful Chicken Paprikash with Dumplings. Don’t worry; I’ve made a few tweaks to freshen up the ingredients list.

Chicken Paprikash

– 2 medium yellow onions (peeled & thinly sliced)

– 8 chicken thighs (skinless)

– 7 chicken drumsticks (skinless)

– ½ cup all-purpose flour

– ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

– ⅓ teaspoon Hungarian paprika

– ⅛ teaspoon salt

– ⅛ teaspoon black pepper

– 2 tablespoons olive oil (and extra, as needed)

– 1 tablespoon tomato paste (for added richness)

– 1 ½ cups chicken stock

– 1 tablespoon Hungarian paprika

– 1 teaspoon corn starch

– 8 ounces sour cream (low-fat works but won’t be as creamy)

Dumplings

– 6 eggs (beaten)

– 4 cups all-purpose flour

– 1 cup water

– 2 teaspoons salt

– Water for boiling the dumplings

– 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)

– Optional: chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Chicken Paprikash and Dumplings Recipe?

Creating this delicious meal is easier than it sounds, and it’s an enjoyable process when you follow these step-by-step directions. Let’s get started!

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare Your Onions

Start by peeling and thinly slicing the onions. Set them aside. These will be the base for our flavorful sauce.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, ⅓ teaspoon of paprika, and the salt and pepper. This seasoned flour will help create a delicious crust on the chicken. Meanwhile, pat your chicken pieces dry with paper towels. It helps achieve that golden surface when browning.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

Now, set up your assembly line: the chicken, then the seasoned flour. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour on both sides. Make sure you give them a good coating, then place the floured chicken in a 9×13 pan.

Step 4: Sauté the Onions

Heat the olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the sliced onions. Sauté them for about six minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and translucent.

Step 5: Brown the Chicken

Now for the fun part! Add the floured chicken to the skillet with the onions. Brown the chicken pieces for about 7-10 minutes, ensuring they’re golden on both sides. If necessary, brown the chicken in batches rather than overcrowding the pan.

Step 6: Make the Paprikash Gravy

While your chicken is browning, whisk together one tablespoon of paprika with the chicken stock in a separate bowl. Once the chicken is nicely browned, pour the seasoned stock over the chicken and onions in the skillet. Lower the heat to medium, cover the pan, and let it simmer for at least 25 minutes (or up to 40 minutes if you want super tender chicken). Be sure to check back and spoon some gravy over the chicken occasionally.

Step 7: Prepare the Dumpling Batter

While the chicken simmers, fill a large pot with hot water. Sprinkle in a teaspoon of salt, cover it, and heat it on high. In a medium mixing bowl, use a whisk or fork to beat the eggs well. Then add the flour, water, and remaining two teaspoons of salt, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing!

Step 8: Boil the Dumplings

Once the water is boiling, reveal the pot of water. Use two regular teaspoons to scoop out a portion of batter and scrape it into the boiling water. Make sure the dumplings don’t touch each other while cooking. This may take a few batches, depending on the size of your pot.

Step 9: Cook the Dumplings

Let the dumplings cook for 3-5 minutes. They will float when almost done. Once they float, wait a couple more minutes before cutting one in half to tell if it’s cooked through. Adjust the cooking time if necessary—everyone has their preference!

Step 10: Remove and Keep Warm

Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the dumplings from the water and let them drain before moving them to a clean 9×13 pan. Cover them loosely with foil to keep them warm as you continue cooking the remaining batches.

Step 11: Final Touches

Once the chicken is tender and cooked through, carefully add dollops of sour cream around the skillet, stirring them in gently. For thicker gravy, whisk a tablespoon of corn starch with a couple of spoonfuls of gravy in a cup. Then, add this mixture back into the skillet and stir to combine. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 12: Serve It Up!

To serve, place a hearty portion of dumplings on each plate, then top with the chicken and generous ladles of gravy. If you want to add a pop of color, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top.

Tips

– Quality of Paprika: Use good-quality Hungarian paprika for the best flavor.

– Skillet Size: Use a large enough skillet to comfortably fit the chicken, avoiding overcrowding for even cooking.

– Dumpling Size: Adjust the size of the dumplings for your preference; smaller ones cook faster!

– Sour Cream Temperature: Let the sour cream warm slightly before adding to avoid curdling.

– Leftover Gravy: If you have leftover gravy, it’s great as a sauce for other dishes.

How to Store Leftovers?

To store your Chicken Paprikash and dumplings, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. Use within three to four days for the best flavor. If you want to keep the dumplings fluffier, consider storing the cooked chicken and gravy separately from the dumplings. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave on low power.

Nutrition Information

This hearty dish provides a good balance of protein and carbohydrates. A serving typically contains around 540 calories, making it a satisfying option for a filling dinner. Each serving gives a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals, especially from the chicken and the accompanying vegetables.

How Would I Recommend Serving Chicken Paprikash and Dumplings Recipe?

– Pair with Crusty Bread: Perfect for mopping up that delicious gravy.

– Chilled Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side to contrast the warmth of the dish.

– Roasted Vegetables: Carrots and Brussels sprouts roasted with garlic enhance the meal’s flavor.

– Pickled Vegetables: These add a nice tanginess to complement the richness of the paprikash.

– Red Wine: A lovely Hungarian red wine will elevate your dining experience.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if Not Available?

– Paprika:Smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.

– Chicken Thighs/Drumsticks:Bone-in chicken breasts for a leaner option.

– Sour Cream:Greek yogurt works as a great substitute but will change the flavor slightly.

– All-Purpose Flour:Whole wheat flour for a healthier option (may change texture a bit).

– Chicken Stock:Vegetable stock for a vegetarian take, while ensuring to adjust seasoning.

FAQs

1. Can I make Chicken Paprikash in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Sear the chicken and onions as per the recipe, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for about 4-6 hours for a wonderfully tender result.

2. Can I use different meats?

Certainly! Feel free to use pork or even tofu for a vegetarian alternative, adjusting cooking times as necessary.

3. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add some cayenne pepper or use hot paprika to give it an extra kick. Just start with a little and taste!

4. What kind of dumplings should I use?

You can use store-bought dumplings if you’re short on time, but homemade dumplings really shine in this dish.

5. Can I freeze Chicken Paprikash and dumplings?

You can freeze the chicken and gravy together without the dumplings. Prepare fresh dumplings when you reheat for the best texture.

Conclusion

This Chicken Paprikash with Dumplings recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a slice of warmth and tradition with each bite. Perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying a cozy night in, it brings flavors that connect to home and heart. Don’t hesitate to share this dish with your loved ones—after all, good food is always better when shared! Happy cooking!

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