Chicken Paprika II

Delicious Chicken Paprika II Recipe from Spain and USA

Region / culture: Spain, USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Chicken Paprika II is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. This recipe features tender chicken pieces cooked in a flavorful paprika sauce, served over hot cooked rice. The addition of sour cream adds a creamy and rich element to the dish.

History

Chicken Paprika is a traditional Hungarian dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. The use of paprika as a key ingredient in the dish is a nod to Hungary's rich culinary heritage, as paprika is a staple spice in Hungarian cuisine. This version of Chicken Paprika II puts a modern twist on the classic recipe, making it accessible and easy to prepare for home cooks.

Ingredients

12 chicken pieces (about 3 lb or 1.36 kg)
1 tbsp butter or margarine
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt
0.25 tsp ground black pepper
0.25 tsp garlic powder
1.5 cups tomato juice
3 cups hot cooked rice
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
0.5 cup sour cream
2 tbsp flour

How to prepare

In a large skillet, brown the chicken on all sides in butter and oil.
Add the onion and cook until it is tender.
Add the paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and tomato juice. Simmer covered for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fork-tender.
Toss the rice with parsley and arrange the chicken on top of the rice.
Blend the sour cream and flour together, then stir it into the liquid remaining in the skillet.
Cook until the mixture thickens, but do not let it boil. Pour the sauce over the chicken.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the dish for added flavor and texture.
Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for a leaner option.
Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter alternative.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the chicken pieces well before adding the other ingredients. This will help to develop a rich flavor in the dish.

- Be sure to simmer the chicken in the paprika sauce until it is fork-tender. This will ensure that the chicken is cooked through and tender.

- To prevent the sour cream from curdling, be sure to blend it with flour before adding it to the sauce. This will help to thicken the sauce and create a creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken Paprika II with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the chicken before simmering it in the sauce helps to develop a rich flavor in the dish.

- Simmering the chicken in the paprika sauce allows the flavors to meld together and creates a tender and flavorful dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil instead of vegetable oil for a healthier option.

- Substitute chicken broth for tomato juice if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

Chicken Paprika II can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Chicken Paprika II with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Chicken Paprika II with a side of buttered noodles or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chicken Paprika II contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chicken Paprika II contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chicken Paprika II contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Chicken Paprika II contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Chicken Paprika II is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (sour cream) and gluten (flour). Please be mindful of any allergies or dietary restrictions.

Summary

Chicken Paprika II is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Chicken Paprika II is a flavorful and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. With tender chicken pieces cooked in a rich paprika sauce and served over hot cooked rice, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one I won't soon forget. It was a warm summer day, the kind where the birds are singing and the sun is shining brightly in the sky. I was rummaging through an old box of recipes that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I sifted through the yellowed, stained papers, I came across a faded index card with the words "Chicken Paprika II" scrawled across the top in elegant cursive.

My curiosity piqued, I carefully unfolded the card and read the ingredients and instructions written in my grandmother's delicate handwriting. The recipe called for chicken thighs, onions, garlic, Hungarian paprika, sour cream, and a few other simple ingredients. It seemed like a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for a family dinner.

I remembered my grandmother telling me stories about her time living in Hungary, where she had learned to make traditional Hungarian dishes from the local women in her village. She had always been a talented cook, and her meals were always made with love and care. I felt a deep connection to her as I read through the recipe, imagining her standing in a bustling kitchen, surrounded by the sights and sounds of a bustling market.

Excited to try my hand at making Chicken Paprika II, I gathered the necessary ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen. As I chopped the onions and garlic, the familiar scents filled the air, transporting me back to my grandmother's kitchen. I could almost hear her laughter and feel her guiding hand as I followed the recipe step by step.

After simmering the chicken in the rich paprika sauce, I added a dollop of sour cream and let it thicken into a creamy, flavorful sauce. The aroma that filled my kitchen was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

As I sat down to dinner that evening with my family, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment. The Chicken Paprika II was a resounding success, and my loved ones raved about how delicious it was. I couldn't help but smile, knowing that I had honored my grandmother's memory by recreating a recipe that had been passed down through generations.

From that day on, Chicken Paprika II became a staple in my own recipe collection. I made it for special occasions and family gatherings, sharing the story of how I had discovered the recipe with anyone who would listen. It became more than just a dish – it was a connection to my past, a way to keep my grandmother's memory alive through the art of cooking.

As the years passed, I continued to make Chicken Paprika II, each time adding my own twist or variation to make it my own. But no matter how many times I made it, the dish always brought me back to that warm summer day when I found the recipe hidden among my grandmother's treasures.

Now, as I pass the recipe down to my own children and grandchildren, I know that the tradition will live on. Chicken Paprika II will continue to be a beloved family favorite, a reminder of the love and legacy that binds us together through the simple act of sharing a meal. And I will always be grateful for the day I found that faded index card, and the journey it took me on to rediscover a piece of my culinary heritage.