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Looking for a dish that brings pure comfort and flavor to the table? Look no further than this Hungarian Chicken Paprikash (Chicken and Dumplings) recipe. Passed down through generations, this dish is a labor of love, delivering tender chicken, creamy sauce, and flavorful dumplings in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Hungarian Chicken Paprikash
- Family Tradition: Cherished by generations, this recipe offers a taste of home-cooked goodness.
- Tender Chicken: The chicken falls off the bone for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Creamy Consistency: The sauce, enriched with sour cream, has a velvety texture that complements the chicken perfectly.
- Comfort Food: Perfect for cozy evenings, this dish reminds you of the joy found in homemade meals.
Ingredient Notes
- Vegetable Oil: Used for sautéing the onions and chicken.
- Vidalia Onion: Adds a sweet flavor to the dish.
- Chicken Pieces: Whole cut-up chicken with the skin intact.
- Sweet Paprika: Provides the signature flavor and color.
- Chicken Bullion Cubes: Enhance the savory taste of the broth.
- Sour Cream: Contributes to the richness of the sauce.
- Flour: Used to thicken the sauce.
- Lawry’s Seasoning Salt: Optional but recommended for added flavor.
- Eggs, Water, All-Purpose Flour, Salt: Ingredients for making the dumplings.
How to Make Hungarian Chicken Paprikash
Step 1: Sauté Onions
Heat vegetable oil in a pot and cook the chopped onion until translucent. Add paprika and mix well.
Step 2: Brown Chicken
Brown the chicken parts in the pot with the onion mixture.
Step 3: Prepare Broth
Add water, chicken bullion cubes, and seasoning. Simmer until chicken is cooked.
Step 4: Create Sour Cream Mixture
Combine sour cream, water, and flour. Gradually add the mixture to the broth.
Step 5: Prepare Dumplings
Make a soupy dough with eggs, water, flour, and salt. Cook spoonfuls of dough in boiling water until done.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the chicken with the sauce over dumplings. Enjoy the comforting flavors!
Storage Options
For leftovers, store the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken and dumplings on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
Variations and Substitutions
- Vegetarian Twist: Substitute chicken with mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
- Spice It Up: Add hot paprika or chili flakes for a spicier kick.
- Creamy Twist: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangy flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Garnish with fresh parsley or dill for a herbal touch.
What to Serve With Hungarian Chicken Paprikash
- Buttered Egg Noodles: A classic side dish that complements the creamy sauce.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad to balance the richness of the dish.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
- Pickled Vegetables: Adds a tangy contrast to the meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it necessary to use a whole chicken?
While using a whole chicken adds flavor, you can use bone-in chicken pieces for convenience.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I use smoked paprika instead of sweet paprika?
Yes, smoked paprika will change the flavor profile slightly but can be a delicious alternative.
How can I make the dish less creamy?
Adjust the amount of sour cream used or substitute it with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
After indulging in this hearty Hungarian Chicken Paprikash, expect to be transported to a place of warmth and comfort. The tender chicken, creamy sauce, and flavorful dumplings will delight your taste buds, leaving you craving more of this traditional and soul-satisfying dish.
Hungarian Chicken Paprikash (Chicken and Dumplings)
Ingredients
- Vegetable Oil for sautéing
- Vidalia Onion
- Chicken Pieces whole cut-up chicken with skin
- Sweet Paprika
- Chicken Bullion Cubes
- Sour Cream
- Flour for thickening
- Lawry's Seasoning Salt optional
- Eggs
- Water
- All-Purpose Flour
- Salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Sauté Onions - Heat vegetable oil in a pot and cook the chopped onion until translucent. Add paprika and mix well.
- Step 2: Brown Chicken - Brown the chicken parts in the pot with the onion mixture.
- Step 3: Prepare Broth - Add water, chicken bullion cubes, and seasoning. Simmer until chicken is cooked.
- Step 4: Create Sour Cream Mixture - Combine sour cream, water, and flour. Gradually add the mixture to the broth.
- Step 5: Prepare Dumplings - Make a soupy dough with eggs, water, flour, and salt. Cook spoonfuls of dough in boiling water until done.
- Step 6: Serve - Serve the chicken with the sauce over dumplings. Enjoy the comforting flavors!