This delicious Hungarian Chicken Thighs recipe is a true gem, passed down from a skilled Hungarian chef. The dish is rich in flavor, combining tender chicken thighs with a savory paprika-infused sauce that will have you coming back for seconds. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this recipe pairs wonderfully with white rice, making it a satisfying and complete meal. Using only a handful of basic ingredients, you can make this delicious dish right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 6 chicken thighs
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 1 cup (240 ml) tomato puree
- 1 cup (240 ml) water
- 4-5 tablespoons sour cream
- Parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Butter (for cooking)
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 2 tablespoons wheat flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (for frying)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken Thighs:
- Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper liberally on both sides.
- In a shallow dish, combine the wheat flour and paprika. Dredge each chicken thigh in the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Brown the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil and a knob of butter over medium heat.
- Once the butter is melted and the pan is hot, add the chicken thighs, skin side down. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the browned chicken thighs from the skillet and set them aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add a bit more butter if necessary, then add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes soft and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped tomato to the skillet, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the tomato has softened.
- Make the Sauce:
- Stir in the tomato puree and water, mixing well to combine with the sautéed vegetables.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Add the browned chicken thighs back into the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
- Cover the skillet and let the chicken cook gently in the sauce for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Finish with Sour Cream:
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the sour cream, mixing it into the sauce until smooth and creamy. This will add a rich, tangy flavor to the dish.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve:
- Serve the Hungarian chicken thighs hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.
- This dish pairs perfectly with white rice, which helps to soak up the delicious sauce.
Conclusion:
This Hungarian Chicken Thighs recipe is a testament to the rich culinary traditions of Hungary. The combination of paprika, tender chicken, and creamy sauce creates a dish that is both comforting and full of flavor. It’s a perfect meal for any occasion, whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests with a taste of authentic Hungarian cuisine.