Chicken Hungarian-style

Chicken Hungarian-style Recipe - A Taste of Hungary in Every Bite

Region / culture: Hungary | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken Hungarian-style is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and savory paprika sauce. This traditional Hungarian recipe is a favorite for its bold flavors and hearty ingredients.

History

Chicken Hungarian-style, also known as Paprikás Csirke, is a classic Hungarian dish that dates back to the 18th century. It is a staple in Hungarian cuisine and is often served at family gatherings and special occasions. The dish is known for its use of paprika, which gives it its signature red color and robust flavor.

Ingredients

2 to 2.5 lb (1.13 kg) frying chicken, cut into pieces
3 tbsp flour
3 tbsp paprika
1 tsp salt
0.25 tsp ground black pepper
0.13 tsp ground red pepper
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 cup chopped onion
2 cups chicken broth
0.25 cup chopped fresh parsley
3 cups hot cooked rice

How to prepare

In a paper or plastic bag, mix flour, paprika, salt, and peppers. Add one piece of chicken at a time and shake to coat.
In a large skillet, brown the chicken on all sides in hot oil over medium-high heat.
Add the onion and cook until golden.
Pour off the excess fat.
Add the broth to the skillet and bring it to a boil.
Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is tender.
Stir in the parsley.
Serve with hot rice.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lighter version of the dish.
Substitute the rice with egg noodles for a classic Hungarian twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to coat the chicken pieces evenly with the flour and paprika mixture for a crispy and flavorful crust.

- Browning the chicken before simmering it in the sauce helps to seal in the juices and enhance the flavor.

- Be sure to use high-quality Hungarian paprika for an authentic and rich taste.

- Adjust the amount of red pepper to suit your spice preference.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Hungarian-style is best served hot over a bed of fluffy rice. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making Chicken Hungarian-style is to simmer the chicken in the flavorful paprika sauce until it is tender and juicy. Be sure to stir in the parsley at the end for a fresh and herbaceous finish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have Hungarian paprika, you can use regular paprika mixed with a pinch of cayenne pepper for a similar flavor profile. You can also use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of a whole chicken.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the flour and paprika mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container until ready to use. You can also brown the chicken in advance and finish cooking it in the sauce when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chicken Hungarian-style in a large serving dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. Pair it with a side of pickled cucumbers or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Chicken Hungarian-style pairs well with a glass of dry white wine or a cold beer. You can also serve it with a side of crusty bread or buttered noodles for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chicken Hungarian-style contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chicken Hungarian-style contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chicken Hungarian-style contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Chicken Hungarian-style contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Chicken Hungarian-style is a good source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Iron, and Calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the flour used to coat the chicken.

Summary

Chicken Hungarian-style is a well-balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious meal option.

Summary

Chicken Hungarian-style is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. With its rich paprika sauce and tender chicken, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy it with a side of rice or noodles for a satisfying meal that will warm you from the inside out.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a magnet. It was a cold winter day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in Hungary. As soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen, the delicious aroma of spices and herbs filled the air. Maria greeted me with a warm smile and handed me a steaming bowl of Chicken Hungarian-style.

I took my first bite and was immediately hooked. The tender chicken simmered in a rich paprika sauce, with onions, garlic, and peppers adding a depth of flavor that was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. I begged Maria to share her recipe with me, and she graciously agreed.

Maria started by telling me about the history of Hungarian cuisine and how it has been influenced by various cultures over the years. She explained that the key to authentic Hungarian dishes lies in the quality of the ingredients and the careful balance of spices.

She showed me how to prepare the chicken, first by browning it in a hot skillet to seal in the juices. Then, she added the onions, garlic, and peppers, letting them sauté until they were soft and fragrant. Next came the star of the show - the Hungarian paprika. Maria explained that this spice is what gives the dish its distinctive flavor and vibrant color.

As the sauce simmered on the stove, Maria shared stories of her own grandmother who had passed down the recipe to her. She recalled fond memories of helping her grandmother in the kitchen, learning the traditional techniques that have been handed down through generations.

I watched in awe as Maria added a touch of sour cream to the sauce, giving it a creamy texture that perfectly complemented the bold flavors of the paprika. She then let the chicken simmer until it was tender and the sauce had thickened to perfection.

Finally, it was time to plate up the dish. Maria served the Chicken Hungarian-style with a side of buttery noodles and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. The flavors melded together harmoniously, creating a dish that was both comforting and sophisticated.

As I savored each bite, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to learn from Maria. Her passion for cooking and dedication to preserving her cultural heritage were truly inspiring. I knew that this recipe would become a cherished part of my own culinary repertoire, a reminder of the time spent with a dear friend and the rich tapestry of flavors that make up Hungarian cuisine.

Now, whenever I make Chicken Hungarian-style, I think back to that day in Maria's kitchen and the valuable lessons she imparted to me. I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together, to tell stories, and to create lasting memories. And I am grateful for the gift of this recipe, passed down through generations and cherished by all who taste its delicious flavors.