Indulge in the rich flavors of Hungary with this delightful Hungarian Chicken Paprikash, a cherished family recipe passed down from Pamela Eaton’s mother. Originally learned during her church volunteering days, this tender chicken dish has become Pamela’s favorite main course, boasting a delectable gravy seasoned with the iconic Hungarian spice, paprika. The addition of sour cream and onions adds a creamy and savory touch that elevates this dish to new heights of culinary delight.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 large onion, chopped
- ¼ cup butter, cubed
- 4 to 5 pounds broiler/fryer chicken pieces
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1½ cups hot water
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- 1 cup (8 ounces) sour cream
PREPARATIONS:
- In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion in butter until tender. Sprinkle the chicken pieces with paprika, salt, and pepper, then place them in an ungreased roasting pan. Spoon the onion mixture over the chicken and add hot water. Cover the roasting pan and bake at 350° for 1½ hours or until the chicken juices run clear.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and keep it warm. In a small bowl, combine cornstarch and cold water until smooth, then gradually add this mixture to the pan juices and onion. Bring it to a boil over medium heat, cooking and stirring for 2 minutes or until thickened. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the sour cream. Serve this luscious gravy alongside the chicken for a scrumptious meal.
YIELD: 6 servings
PREP/BAKE TIME: 20 minutes (preparation) + 1½ hours (baking)
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- For authentic Hungarian flavors, ensure to use Hungarian paprika, available in various types, ranging from mild to hot and in vibrant red to brownish-yellow colors.
TIPS:
- Serve this Hungarian Chicken Paprikash with traditional Hungarian accompaniments like dumplings or egg noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.
With a captivating blend of history and flavor, Pamela Eaton’s Hungarian Chicken Paprikash invites you on a culinary journey to Hungary. This cherished family recipe, once volunteered at church dinners, has become a beloved main course for Pamela. The tender chicken pieces, seasoned with the quintessential Hungarian spice, paprika, are complemented by a creamy and savory gravy enriched with sour cream and onions.
As the onions sauté in butter, their aroma fills the air, transporting you to a Hungarian kitchen. The chicken, coated in a vibrant paprika spice rub, emerges from the oven tender and succulent, ready to delight your taste buds.
The rich and velvety gravy, made with pan juices, cornstarch, and sour cream, embraces the chicken in a luscious embrace, adding depth and complexity to the dish. It’s no wonder this Hungarian Chicken Paprikash holds a special place in Pamela’s heart.
For an authentic experience, opt for Hungarian paprika, available in an array of intensities and colors, ensuring you capture the true essence of Hungarian cuisine.
Gather around the table and savor the flavors of Hungary with this delightful dish. Serve the Hungarian Chicken Paprikash with traditional accompaniments such as dumplings or egg noodles, and you’ll discover the magic of Hungarian comfort food that has stood the test of time.
