Chicken Goulash with Paprika Sauce is a comforting, flavor-packed dish inspired by Central European cuisine, particularly Hungarian and Austrian cooking, where paprika plays a starring role. Unlike beef goulash, this lighter chicken version cooks faster while still delivering deep, warming flavors.

Tender pieces of chicken are simmered in a rich, aromatic sauce made with onions, sweet paprika, and gentle spices, creating a meal that is both hearty and soothing. Perfect for chilly evenings or family dinners, this dish pairs beautifully with noodles, rice, or crusty bread to soak up every bit of the velvety sauce.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it turns simple pantry ingredients into something incredibly satisfying. The slow-cooked onions create natural sweetness, while paprika adds warmth and depth without overwhelming heat. Chicken keeps the dish lighter than traditional goulash, making it ideal for weeknight dinners while still feeling special and nourishing.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because it introduces you to the essence of traditional goulash flavors in an approachable way. It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and adaptable to different tastes. Whether you’re new to paprika-based stews or already love comfort food classics, this chicken goulash delivers rich flavor with minimal effort.

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4
Calories (Approx.): 360 per serving
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Hungarian-inspired / Central European

Ingredients

For the Chicken Goulash

• 1½ pounds boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
• 2 large onions, finely sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Optional Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped

Cooking Directions

Prepare the Base
Heat oil or butter in a heavy pot over medium heat. Add onions and cook slowly until soft and golden, stirring occasionally.

Build the Flavor
Add garlic and cook briefly. Remove the pot from heat and stir in sweet paprika, smoked paprika, and caraway seeds to prevent burning.

Simmer the Goulash
Return to heat, add tomato paste, chicken pieces, and chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer gently until chicken is tender.

Finish the Sauce
Mix flour with sour cream, then stir into the pot. Simmer until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Sauté the Onions
Cook onions slowly until deeply golden for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Add Paprika and Spices
Stir in paprika off the heat to preserve its color and aroma.

Step 3: Add Chicken and Broth
Combine chicken and liquid, then simmer gently.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
Incorporate sour cream mixture and cook until silky.

Step 5: Final Seasoning
Adjust salt and pepper before serving.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve Chicken Goulash with Paprika Sauce hot over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, rice, or spaetzle. It also pairs well with crusty bread or steamed vegetables. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra dollop of sour cream if desired.

Recipe Tips

• Use sweet Hungarian paprika for authentic flavor.
• Cook onions slowly to avoid bitterness.
• Do not boil after adding sour cream to prevent curdling.
• Chicken thighs remain juicier than breasts.
• Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Variations

Spicy Chicken Goulash
Add hot paprika or chili flakes for extra heat.

Cream-Free Version
Omit sour cream for a lighter, broth-based goulash.

Vegetable-Loaded Goulash
Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots for added texture.

Tomato-Rich Goulash
Increase tomato paste or add diced tomatoes for tanginess.

Slow Cooker Version
Cook onions first, then transfer all ingredients except sour cream to a slow cooker. Add sour cream at the end.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze without sour cream for up to 2 months. Add sour cream after reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop to maintain texture.

Special Equipment Needed

• Heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but thighs are more forgiving and stay tender longer.

Why add paprika off the heat?
Paprika burns easily and can turn bitter if overheated.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, replace sour cream with dairy-free yogurt or omit it entirely.

Is goulash supposed to be thick or soupy?
This version is moderately thick with a creamy sauce.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, the flavors improve after resting overnight.

Conclusion

Chicken Goulash with Paprika Sauce is a warm, comforting dish that showcases the beauty of simple ingredients transformed by time and care. With tender chicken, deeply flavored onions, and aromatic paprika, it delivers classic goulash comfort in a lighter, faster-cooking form. Whether served for a cozy family meal or a casual gathering, this recipe is a reliable favorite that brings rich Central European flavors straight to your table.