Hungarian Chicken & Potato Paprika Stew is a warm, comforting one-pot meal made with tender chicken, soft potatoes, onion, tomato, garlic, and sweet Hungarian paprika. It has a rich, homestyle flavor and a cozy broth that is perfect for serving with bread, rice, or simple pickles on the side.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This stew is hearty, simple, and full of deep paprika flavor. It uses everyday ingredients, but the result tastes rich and satisfying. The chicken becomes tender as it simmers, while the potatoes absorb the flavorful broth.

You’ll also love that this recipe is made in one pot, which means less cleanup. It is ideal for family dinners, cold evenings, or meal prep. The flavor gets even better after resting, making leftovers delicious the next day.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 600 g chicken pieces, bone-in or boneless
• 5 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 ½ tbsp sweet Hungarian paprika
• 1 medium tomato, chopped, or 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt, or to taste
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 500 ml water or chicken broth
• Optional: pickles for serving on the side

Directions

Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until soft and lightly golden.

Add the chicken pieces to the pot. Cook for 5–6 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are lightly browned on the outside.

Lower the heat slightly. Add the sweet Hungarian paprika, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir quickly to coat the chicken. Do not let the paprika burn, as it can become bitter.

Add the chopped tomato or tomato paste, then pour in the water or chicken broth. Stir well, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for 25–30 minutes.

Add the diced potatoes and mix gently. Cover again and cook for another 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft and the chicken is fully cooked.

Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot with bread, rice, or pickles on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 50–60 minutes
Total time: about 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

For a thicker stew, mash a few potato pieces into the broth near the end of cooking. For a lighter version, use chicken breast. For richer flavor, use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks.

You can also add sliced carrots, bell pepper, or a small pinch of chili flakes for gentle heat. If you prefer a deeper tomato flavor, use tomato paste instead of fresh tomato.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let the stew cool before storing.

Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat until hot. Add a splash of water or broth if the stew has thickened too much. You can also reheat it in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each one.

Freezing is possible, but the potatoes may become softer after thawing.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, boneless chicken works well. Chicken thighs are especially tender and flavorful.

Can I use chicken breast?

Yes, but avoid overcooking it because chicken breast can become dry.

What kind of paprika should I use?

Sweet Hungarian paprika gives the best traditional flavor.

Can I make this stew spicy?

Yes, add a small pinch of chili flakes or hot paprika.

Can I use tomato paste instead of tomato?

Yes, use 1–2 tablespoons of tomato paste.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, carrots, bell peppers, or peas can be added.

How do I make the stew thicker?

Mash a few cooked potatoes into the broth.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, the flavor improves after resting.

What can I serve with it?

Serve it with bread, rice, noodles, or pickles.

Can I freeze this stew?

Yes, but the potatoes may become slightly softer after thawing.

Conclusion

Hungarian Chicken & Potato Paprika Stew is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings together simple ingredients in a rich and satisfying way. With tender chicken, soft potatoes, and warm paprika broth, it is perfect for a cozy family meal or easy make-ahead dinner.

Print