Chicken paprika with dumplings

Chicken Paprikash with Fluffy Dumplings

Welcome to the world of culinary delights! Today, I will guide you step by step in preparing a savory recipe for chicken paprikash with fluffy dumplings. This dish is a perfect combination of flavor, texture, and comfort, ideal for a family dinner or to impress friends. I like to call it 'home-cooked goodness', and now I want to share with you the secrets of this preparation.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

The history of paprikash is fascinating, with deep roots in traditional cuisine, where rich flavors and fresh ingredients come together to create an unforgettable culinary experience. This recipe stands out for its creamy and spicy sauce, which coats each piece of chicken, making it an excellent choice for any occasion.

Ingredients:

- 900 g chicken breast, diced
- 3 medium onions, finely chopped
- 1 can of diced tomatoes (about 400 g) or 4 fresh tomatoes, diced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 50 ml oil (preferably sunflower or olive)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Sweet or hot paprika, to preference
- 2 small bay leaves
- 2 large eggs
- 50 g butter, melted and cooled
- 150 g flour
- A pinch of salt and pepper
- Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the vegetables well. Finely chop the onions and slice the bell pepper into thin strips. The diced chicken breast should be uniform to cook evenly.

2. Cooking the chicken: In a large skillet or pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chicken cubes and fry until golden on all sides, about 7-10 minutes. This step will seal in the meat's juiciness and add a pleasant texture.

3. Adding the vegetables: Once the chicken is fried, add the onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté them together with the chicken for another 5-7 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and the pepper softens.

4. Tomato sauce: At this point, add the diced tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes) and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and bay leaves. Also, add a little warm water to achieve a more fluid consistency of the sauce. Let everything simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. This time will allow the flavors to blend and intensify.

5. Preparing the dumplings: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the melted and cooled butter, mixing well. Gradually incorporate the flour, ensuring no lumps form. Finally, add the chopped dill if desired. The consistency of the mixture should be slightly thicker than pancake batter.

6. Dumplings in paprikash: Now it's time to add the dumplings to the paprikash! Using a spoon, form small balls of dough and add them directly into the boiling sauce. Make sure the heat is very low to avoid their dispersal. Cover the skillet and let the dumplings simmer for 10-12 minutes, gently turning them halfway through.

7. Finishing the dish: Before turning off the heat, add a little chopped parsley for flavor if desired. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings if necessary.

Serving suggestion: Serve the paprikash hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley on top. You can add sour cream or yogurt for extra creaminess, and a side of mashed potatoes or a green salad will perfectly complete the meal.

Tips and useful advice:
- Ensure the chicken breast is cut evenly for even cooking.
- You can replace chicken breast with chicken thighs for a richer taste.
- If you like spicier flavors, add a finely chopped hot pepper during cooking.
- Dumplings can also be flavored with cottage cheese or fresh herbs for an interesting variation.

Nutritional benefits: This chicken paprikash recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken, and the vegetables add essential fiber and vitamins. The dumplings are a good source of carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use turkey instead of chicken? Yes, turkey is a healthy and tasty alternative.
- How can I make the paprikash spicier? Add more hot paprika or a fresh hot pepper to the recipe.
- Can I freeze leftover paprikash? Yes, paprikash can be frozen, but it is recommended to reheat carefully to avoid affecting the texture.

I encourage you to try this delicious recipe and personalize it to your taste. Chicken paprikash with fluffy dumplings is more than a meal – it is an experience that brings family and friends together. Enjoy your meal!