Rustic Hungarian Paprika Chicken in Creamy Tomato Sauce

Discovering the charm of Rustic Hungarian Paprika Chicken in Creamy Tomato Sauce was a joyous occasion for me—a cozy evening spent in the kitchen, as aromas filled the air and transported me to the heart of Hungary. This dish beautifully combines tender chicken thighs with a rich, velvety sauce, perfect for friends and family gatherings or just a comforting weekday meal. The vibrant essence of sweet and smoked paprika mingled with creamy textures makes every bite special, turning simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

If you’re seeking a dish that embodies warmth and comfort, look no further. Rustic Hungarian Paprika Chicken in Creamy Tomato Sauce is not only a feast for the senses but also remarkably easy to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or festive family dinners.

This recipe is a great crowd-pleaser; kids adore its creamy richness, while adults appreciate the depth of flavor. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—pair it with egg noodles or mashed potatoes, and you’ve got a satisfying meal ready in no time.

"This dish quickly became a household favorite! It’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. I love serving it over egg noodles—comfort food at its finest!"

The Cooking Process Explained

The flow of this recipe is delightfully straightforward, taking you from prep to table with ease. First, you’ll sauté onions and garlic to build a flavorful base. Then, incorporate your vibrant bell peppers and spices before combining everything in a slow cooker with the chicken. After several hours, you finish it off with a rich cream blend and roasted cherry tomatoes, resulting in a luscious dish that feels as good as it tastes.

Gather These Items

1 kg boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, finely sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup chicken stock
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon plain flour (optional, for thickening)
1 cup roasted cherry tomatoes
1/4 cup crispy fried shallots
Fresh parsley, chopped

Note: If you can’t find Hungarian paprika, you can substitute it with regular paprika, but do try to source it for an authentic taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Warm olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onions until they become soft, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Stir in both sweet Hungarian and smoked paprika, cooking for about 30 seconds to release the flavors.
4. Incorporate the sliced red and yellow bell peppers, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken stock, salt, and black pepper.
5. Pour the entire mixture into the slow cooker, adding the chicken thighs and ensuring they’re well-coated with the sauce.
6. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
7. Whisk together the sour cream and heavy cream; temper it with hot sauce from the slow cooker before mixing it in.
8. For a thicker sauce, create a flour slurry and stir it into the mixture.
9. Fold in the roasted cherry tomatoes and cook on low for an additional 10 minutes.
10. Serve over egg noodles or mashed potatoes, garnished with parsley and crispy fried shallots.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

When it comes to serving this delightful dish, the options are plentiful. Consider serving it over a bed of fluffy egg noodles or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up that rich sauce. Adding a side of steamed green beans or a simple garden salad can enhance the meal’s freshness. Don’t forget to pair it with a light white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing touch.

How to Store

If you find yourself with leftovers (unlikely, but it happens), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This hearty dish can last for 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave, adding a splash of chicken stock if the sauce has thickened too much.

Helpful Cooking Tips

For an added depth of flavor, try marinating the chicken thighs in paprika and garlic for a few hours before cooking. If you prefer more heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes can elevate the dish further.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to switch things up! Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breast for a leaner option, or replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. For a vegetarian version, chickpeas or lentils can stand in perfectly, absorbing the wonderful flavors of this dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! The flavors deepen over time, making it even better the next day.

What can I use instead of chicken stock?
Vegetable broth or water can be used if you need a substitute. Just be sure to adjust seasoning as needed.

Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, skip the flour or use a gluten-free thickening agent instead.

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