Paprika Chicken - recette canadienne de poulet
Easy

Paprika Chicken

40 min4400 cal

By Chef Marco Deluca·Red Seal Certified Chef|April 1, 2024

This Hungarian-inspired paprika chicken features tender pieces swimming in a velvety, smoky-sweet sauce made with good quality smoked paprika and tangy sour cream. The deeply caramelized onions and rich pink-orange sauce make this dish a cozy, warming meal perfect for Canadian fall and winter evenings.

international-chickenquébécois

Ingredients

Servings:
4

Instructions

👨‍🍳Chef's Notes

Roux‑Thickened Sauce

“Before adding stock, whisk equal parts butter and flour with the smoked paprika to form a dark roux; this not only deepens the colour but also stabilises the sauce, preventing the sour cream from curdling when you finish the dish.”

About This Recipe

Paprika Chicken is a delightful dish that beautifully marries the rich, smoky flavors of Hungarian cuisine with the comforting touch of Canadian home cooking. This dish shines with the vibrant color and depth of flavor that comes from high-quality smoked paprika, transforming everyday chicken into a culinary masterpiece. It's perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or special gatherings, where the creamy sauce hugs each piece of chicken, creating a dish that’s both hearty and indulgent. Home cooks across Canada have embraced this recipe for its ease and the way it fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma, making it a go-to when comfort food is on the menu.

Tips for the Best Paprika Chicken

To achieve the best results with Paprika Chicken, ensure you sear the chicken thighs or breasts well to develop a rich crust before adding the onions and paprika. Monitor the internal temperature, aiming for 74°C (165°F) to ensure doneness without sacrificing moisture. Stir in the sour cream just before serving to maintain its creamy texture—overheating can cause it to curdle, which you want to avoid for that smooth, luscious sauce.

What to Serve With It

For a truly Canadian experience, serve your Paprika Chicken alongside buttery mashed potatoes or fluffy rice to soak up that sumptuous sauce. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast, while steamed seasonal vegetables like broccoli or carrots can round out the plate beautifully. Don't forget a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color!

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Paprika Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the sauce creamy and prevent drying out. If you wish to freeze, portion the chicken and sauce in freezer-safe containers, and it will keep for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Nutrition Per Serving

400
Calories
37g
Protein
17g
Fat
23g
Carbs
Fiber2g
Sugar9g
Sodium659mg

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of paprika should I use for this dish?+

Always opt for a high-quality smoked paprika, like Pimentonera or one from the international aisle at Loblaws. It makes a significant difference in flavor compared to regular paprika.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?+

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well, but be mindful of cooking times to prevent them from drying out. They may cook quicker than thighs.

Is it necessary to caramelize the onions?+

Yes, caramelizing the onions brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to the sauce. Don’t rush this step; it’s worth the wait.

What can I substitute for sour cream?+

If you prefer, you can use plain yogurt or crème fraîche as a substitute. Both will provide a similar creamy texture and tang.

Can I add vegetables to the dish?+

Certainly! Adding bell peppers or mushrooms during the cooking process can enhance the dish's flavor and nutrition, making it even heartier.

Recipe at a Glance

Prep:
10 min
Cook:
30 min
Total:
40 min
Servings:
4
Difficulty:
Easy

Pro Tips

  • 1Use authentic smoked Spanish paprika (pimentón) or Hungarian sweet paprika for best flavor — regular grocery store paprika tastes flat in comparison.
  • 2Don't rush the onion caramelization. Properly browned onions add essential sweetness and depth to the sauce.
  • 3Let the sauce cool slightly before adding sour cream to prevent it from curdling. If it does curdle, whisk vigorously off heat until smooth.
  • 4Bone-in thighs stay juicier than boneless during braising. The bones also add flavor to the sauce.

Variations

  • Use boneless skinless thighs and reduce cooking time to 18-20 minutes for a quicker version.
  • Replace half the paprika with hot paprika for a spicier kick.
  • Add 1 cup sliced mushrooms to the onions during caramelization for earthier flavor.

International Chicken Recipes

Paprika Chicken

This is THE Paprika Chicken recipe you have been looking for.

by ChickenRecipes.ca

Paprika Chicken - recette canadienne de poulet
Chef Marco Deluca

Chef Marco Deluca

Head Chef & Recipe Developer

Marco is a Red Seal certified chef with over 15 years of professional kitchen experience across Canada. After training at George Brown College in Toronto and working in acclaimed restaurants from Vancouver to Montreal, he founded ChickenRecipes.ca to share his expertise with home cooks. Marco specializes in making restaurant-quality chicken dishes accessible for everyday Canadian kitchens.

Red Seal Certified ChefGeorge Brown College Culinary Arts Graduate15+ years professional kitchen experience

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