A serving of Instant Pot Chicken Paprikash, featuring tender chicken in a rich, creamy paprika sauce, served over a bed of egg noodles and garnished with fresh parsley, showcasing the comforting and hearty nature of this traditional Hungarian dish

Deliciously Easy Instant Pot Chicken Paprikash

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Instant Pot Chicken Paprikash: A Soul-Warming, Flavorful Classic

If you’re a fan of rich, flavorful comfort food, this “Instant Pot Chicken Paprikash” recipe is about to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Originating in Hungary, Chicken Paprikash is a creamy, paprika-infused stew that combines tender chicken pieces with a velvety sauce and a hint of spice. Traditionally served over egg noodles or mashed potatoes, this dish brings a warm, comforting experience to any table.

What makes this Instant Pot version special is its convenience. With the Instant Pot, you can achieve the depth of flavor usually reserved for hours of slow cooking in just a fraction of the time. Using simple ingredients and a handful of spices, this dish is a great addition to your weeknight dinner repertoire.

Recipe Card for Instant Pot Chicken Paprikash

Description: A deliciously rich and creamy Chicken Paprikash made in the Instant Pot, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner with all the classic flavors of Hungarian cuisine.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Calories: Approximately 350 per serving

Ingredients:

Ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken Paprikash, including chicken chunks, olive oil, chopped onion, garlic, chicken broth, Hungarian sweet and smoked paprika, sour cream, flour, and fresh parsley, ready for cooking
  • 2 lbs chicken thighs or chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cut into chunks
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp Hungarian sweet paprika
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Egg noodles or mashed potatoes, for serving

Directions:

  1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Onions and garlic being sautéed in an Instant Pot, creating the base for Chicken Paprikash
  • Switch your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and drizzle in the olive oil. When the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, making sure to stir constantly to prevent burning.
  1. Add the Chicken and Spices
  • Add the chicken pieces to the pot, and season with salt, pepper, and both the sweet and smoked paprika. Stir well to coat the chicken in the spices, allowing it to cook for 3-4 minutes to seal in the flavors.
  1. Pour in the Chicken Broth
  • Pour the chicken broth into the pot and stir to deglaze the bottom, scraping up any browned bits for added flavor. Secure the Instant Pot lid, ensure the valve is set to “Sealing,” and cook on “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” mode for 8 minutes.
  1. Prepare the Sour Cream Mixture
  • While the chicken cooks, in a small bowl, combine the sour cream and flour, whisking until smooth. This will help thicken the sauce and give it that signature creamy texture.
  1. Release Pressure and Finish the Sauce
A bowl of creamy Chicken Paprikash served with egg noodles, topped with fresh parsley, ready to enjoy
  • After the cooking time ends, perform a quick release. Open the lid carefully, switch the pot to “Sauté” mode, and stir in the sour cream mixture until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Top with fresh parsley and serve alongside egg noodles or creamy mashed potatoes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 29g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: With the Instant Pot, this rich stew is ready in just 35 minutes.
  2. Authentic Flavor: The combination of Hungarian and smoked paprika gives this dish an authentic taste that’s both comforting and flavorful.
  3. One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup required, making it perfect for busy weeknights!

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

  • Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Both work well, but chicken thighs provide a juicier, more flavorful result.
  • Hungarian Sweet Paprika: Essential for authenticity; smoked paprika adds an extra depth of flavor.
  • Sour Cream: Adds creaminess; Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for a lighter option.

How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Paprikash (Step-by-Step)

  1. Sauté Your Ingredients: Start by sautéing the onions and garlic in the Instant Pot.
  2. Season the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces, sweet paprika, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add Broth and Pressure Cook: Pour in chicken broth, secure the lid, and cook on high pressure.
  4. Thicken with Sour Cream Mixture: Stir in sour cream mixed with flour for a silky sauce.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with parsley, serve over noodles, and enjoy!

Expert Tips for Success

  • Don’t Skip the Paprika: Both types of paprika are essential. They provide the dish’s signature flavor.
  • Adjust the Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth. For a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer on “Sauté” mode for a few extra minutes.
  • Quick Release Carefully: Use a cloth to shield your hand when performing a quick release to avoid steam burns.

Variations and Customizations

  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne for a bit of heat.
  • Make it Dairy-Free: Substitute sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for a non-dairy version.
  • Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken with mushrooms or tofu, adjusting cooking time accordingly.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

  • Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to three days.
  • Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir well to recombine the sauce if it separates slightly.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Paprikash is best served with egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice. For added color, garnish with fresh parsley and pair it with a simple green salad or crusty bread.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. What is Chicken Paprikash?
  • Chicken Paprikash is a traditional Hungarian stew with tender chicken cooked in a creamy, paprika-spiced sauce.
  1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
  • Yes, you can use chicken breasts, though thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful in this dish.
  1. What can I serve with Chicken Paprikash?
  • This dish pairs well with egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes.
  1. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
  • Yes, you can use dairy-free sour cream or coconut cream as an alternative.
  1. Is Chicken Paprikash spicy?
  • It’s mildly spicy from paprika but not overly hot. You can add cayenne if you like a little heat.
  • Instant Pot Butter Chicken: A creamy, spiced dish perfect for Instant Pot enthusiasts.
  • Chicken Alfredo in the Instant Pot: A comforting pasta dish that’s creamy and quick.
  • Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff: Another Eastern European classic that’s full of flavor and easy to make.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Chicken Paprikash is an easy, flavorful recipe that offers a taste of Hungary without a long cooking time. Whether you’re new to pressure cooking or a seasoned pro, this one-pot recipe is a fantastic option for a quick, comforting meal. Try it tonight and let the flavors of paprika, tender chicken, and creamy sauce transport you to a cozy kitchen in Budapest.

Create a taste of Hungary right in your kitchen with this creamy, comforting Instant Pot Chicken Paprikash! Snap a photo of your beautiful dish and tag #BeesRecipes on Instagram—we’d love to see your delicious creation