Chicken paprika with flour dumplings

Chicken paprikash with dumplings: a feast of flavors and textures

Total preparation time: 60 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to my kitchen, where today we will prepare chicken paprikash with dumplings! This recipe is a perfect combination of juicy meat, flavorful sauce, and fluffy dumplings that will warm your soul even on the coldest days. Paprikash is a traditional recipe, loved in many cultures, often associated with moments of conviviality and joy with loved ones. Let us be carried away by its aromas!

Ingredients for paprikash:

- 2 chicken thighs or breasts (approximately 600-800 g)
- 2 medium onions
- 1/2 red bell pepper
- 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon hot paprika (optional for a touch of spiciness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons sour cream (for a creamy taste)
- 1 tablespoon flour (to thicken the sauce)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish

Ingredients for dumplings:

- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Flour (as needed, approximately 150-200 g)

Preparing the dumplings:

1. In a bowl, beat the egg with a pinch of salt and pepper, then add the 2 tablespoons of cold water. Mix well until homogeneous.
2. Gradually add the flour, stirring continuously until you obtain a non-sticky dough, similar to pasta dough. It is important not to add too much flour, as the dumplings may become tough.
3. Once the dough is ready, gently flatten it with your palm, then divide it into small pieces. Form dumplings by breaking the dough between your thumb and index finger, creating irregular but appetizing shapes. Set them aside.

Preparing the paprikash:

1. Start by cutting the chicken into smaller pieces, ideal for even cooking. Season the meat with salt and pepper on all sides.
2. In a heated skillet, add a little oil and brown the meat on all sides until golden and crispy. This step is essential for developing the deep flavors of the dish.
3. Once the meat is well browned, remove it from the skillet and place it on a plate. If there is too much oil left in the skillet, I advise you to remove some of it.
4. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Sauté them over medium heat until they become translucent and soft, about 5-7 minutes. This is when the onion aroma blends with that of the pepper, creating a delicious base for the paprikash.
5. Add the sweet paprika and hot paprika, stirring well to release the flavors of the spices. It is essential not to let the paprika burn, as it will become bitter.
6. Return the meat to the skillet, cover everything with warm water, and let it simmer on low heat with a lid for about 20 minutes. This step will help the meat become tender and absorb the flavors.
7. After 20 minutes, add the dumplings to the paprikash, along with warm water if necessary, and boil everything for another 15 minutes. The dumplings will puff up and become fluffy, absorbing the flavors of the sauce.

Finalizing the dish:

1. In a small bowl, mix one tablespoon of flour with two tablespoons of sour cream and one tablespoon of the paprikash sauce to avoid lumps. Then pour this mixture into the skillet, stirring vigorously to thicken the sauce.
2. Let it simmer for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. This is the magic moment when the paprikash becomes creamy and delicious!
3. Finally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for added freshness and an attractive appearance.

Serving:

The chicken paprikash with dumplings is served hot, alongside a fresh green salad or pickles, which perfectly complement the rich flavor of the dish. A slice of fresh bread is also welcome to enjoy the delicious sauce!

Practical tips:

- You can experiment with different types of meat, such as turkey or lamb, to give the recipe a unique twist.
- If you like a more intense flavor, add a clove of minced garlic along with the onion and pepper.
- Instead of sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter but equally delicious version.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I replace the dumplings with something else?
Yes! You can use cooked pasta or rice to accompany the paprikash, but the dumplings add a special charm to this dish.

2. How can I make the recipe spicier?
If you enjoy spicy food, you can add more hot paprika or a few slices of hot pepper to the sauce.

3. How long can I keep the paprikash?
Paprikash keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. I recommend reheating it in the microwave or on the stove before serving.

Nutritional values (per serving):

- Calories: approximately 450 kcal
- Protein: 35 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fats: 18 g

This chicken paprikash with dumplings recipe will surely become a favorite in your family, thanks to its rich flavor and the comfort it provides. So put on your apron, prepare your ingredients, and let’s enjoy a delicious meal full of flavors! Enjoy your meal!