Hungarian cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors and hearty dishes, with paprika taking center stage in many recipes. This savory Hungarian paprika chicken thigh recipe delivers a rich, comforting meal that’s simple yet flavorful, perfect for a cozy family dinner. Tender chicken thighs, simmered in a velvety tomato sauce, enhanced with the distinct aroma of paprika and garlic, offer a delightful bite that brings a taste of Hungary right to your table. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees an unforgettable dining experience.
Ingredients
- 6 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 large tomato, diced
- 1 cup (240 ml) tomato puree
- 1 cup (240 ml) water
- 4-5 tablespoons sour cream
- 2 tablespoons paprika (Hungarian sweet paprika preferred)
- 2 tablespoons wheat flour (for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Olive oil (for frying)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken : Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Brown the Chicken : Place a large skillet or heavy pan on medium heat. Drizzle a bit of olive oil and a dollop of butter into the pan. Allow the butter to melt and begin to foam. Gently lay the chicken thighs in the pan with the skin facing down. Sauté for approximately 5-7 minutes, or until the skin turns a rich golden brown and becomes crispy. Turn the thighs over and cook the other side for an additional 5 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté the Onions and Garlic : Using the same pan, toss in the diced onion and finely minced garlic. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant, stirring occasionally to avoid burning the garlic.
- Build the Sauce : Add the diced tomato to the pan and stir well, allowing it to soften for about 3 minutes. Stir in the paprika, making sure it coats the onions and garlic evenly, releasing its rich flavor. Then, add the flour and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Simmer the Chicken : Pour in the tomato puree and water, stirring until the sauce is smooth. Return the chicken thighs to the pan, making sure they are nestled into the sauce. Lower the heat to medium-low and cover the pan. Simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom.
- Finish with Sour Cream : Once the chicken is cooked, remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the sour cream slowly, blending it well into the sauce to create a creamy texture. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve and Garnish : Serve the chicken thighs hot, generously spooning the rich paprika sauce over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Conclusion
This Hungarian paprika chicken thigh dish is a perfect balance of tangy and savory flavors, thanks to the richness of sour cream and the boldness of paprika. The tender chicken combined with the creamy tomato-based sauce creates a delightful experience that will transport your taste buds straight to Hungary. Pair this dish with rice, potatoes, or a slice of rustic bread to soak up all the delicious sauce. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit!