Quick and Flavorful Chicken Paprikash: Instant Pot and Stovetop Recipe

Are you craving a comforting Hungarian classic but short on time? Whether you prefer an Instant Pot or traditional stovetop method, this quick and flavorful chicken paprikash recipe offers the perfect solution. A dish that normally takes hours to develop its rich flavors can now be on your table in under an hour, without sacrificing any of its authentic taste.

What Makes This Chicken Paprikash Recipe Special?

Traditional chicken paprikash is beloved for its creamy, paprika-rich sauce and tender chicken. This version maintains all the classic elements while streamlining the cooking process. The recipe features a harmonious blend of sweet and smoked paprika, creating that signature deep red color and complex flavor that makes chicken paprikash irresistible.

A Brief History of Chicken Paprikash

Before diving into our quick and flavorful chicken paprikash recipe, it’s worth noting that this dish has been a staple of Hungarian cuisine for generations. The name “paprikash” comes from the generous use of paprika, a spice that defines Hungarian cooking. While our version speeds up the traditional cooking process, it honors the authentic flavors that have made this dish a global favorite.

Essential Ingredients for Quick and Flavorful Chicken Paprikash

• 2.5 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 3 tablespoons high-quality Hungarian paprika (sweet)
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 2 large onions, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

For Serving

• Egg noodles or Hungarian nokedli
• Additional sour cream
• Fresh parsley

Instant Pot Chicken Paprikash Instructions

1. Season chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper.
2. Set Instant Pot to SAUTÉ mode. Heat oil and butter until shimmering.
3. Brown chicken thighs skin-side down for 5-6 minutes until golden. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same pot, sauté onions until translucent (about 5 minutes).
5. Add garlic and bell pepper, cook for 2 minutes.
6. Stir in both paprikas and flour, cooking for 1 minute to bloom the spices.
7. Add chicken broth, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom.
8. Return the chicken to the pot, seal the lid, and cook on HIGH pressure for 12 minutes.
9. Natural release for 5 minutes, then quick release remaining pressure.
10. Remove chicken and whisk in sour cream until smooth.

Traditional Stovetop Chicken Paprikash Method

1. Follow steps 1-7 above using a large Dutch oven.
2. Once the chicken is returned to the pot, bring it to a simmer.
3. Cover and cook on low heat for 35-40 minutes until chicken is tender.
4. Complete the dish with sour cream as in the Instant Pot version.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Paprikash Every Time

Choosing the Right Paprika

The success of your chicken paprikash largely depends on the quality of the paprika used. Hungarian sweet paprika provides the foundation, while smoked paprika adds depth. Always store paprika in a cool, dark place and replace it every six months for the best flavor.

Sour Cream Integration

To prevent curdling, temper the sour cream by stirring in a few tablespoons of the hot cooking liquid before adding it to the pot. This quick and flavorful chicken paprikash technique ensures a smooth, creamy sauce every time.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This quick and flavorful chicken paprikash improves with time, making it perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to maintain the sauce’s consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Traditionally, chicken paprikash is served over egg noodles or Hungarian nokedli (small dumplings). For a lower-carb option, try it over cauliflower rice or roasted vegetables. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley and an extra dollop of sour cream for that authentic touch.

Common Questions About Quick and Flavorful Chicken Paprikash

Can I Use Chicken Breast Instead?

While chicken thighs are traditional and provide more flavor, you can use chicken breasts. Reduce cooking time by 2-3 minutes in the Instant Pot or 5-10 minutes on the stovetop to prevent drying.

Can I Make This Dairy-Free?

Yes! Replace sour cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free version that maintains the signature creaminess of chicken paprikash.

How Can I Thicken the Sauce?

If your sauce needs thickening, mix 1 tablespoon of flour with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the simmering sauce before adding the sour cream.

This quick and flavorful chicken paprikash recipe proves that traditional comfort food doesn’t have to be time-consuming. Whether you choose the Instant Pot or stovetop method, you’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal that tastes like it’s been simmering all day. The combination of premium paprika, tender chicken, and rich, creamy sauce makes this dish a guaranteed family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.