Slow Cooker Chicken Paprikash

This Slow Cooker Chicken Paprikash brings the heart of Hungarian comfort food right to your kitchen with minimal effort. Tender chicken thighs are slowly cooked with onions, garlic, and two types of paprika, creating a flavor-rich base that’s finished with a creamy sour cream swirl for the perfect cozy dish. Whether you’re new to paprikash or a longtime fan, this slow cooker version is fuss-free and full of homestyle goodness. Serve it over egg noodles or rice to soak up the velvety sauce, and garnish with a sprinkle of parsley for a pop of freshness. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want seconds (or thirds!).

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs

• 1 large onion, sliced

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tablespoon Hungarian sweet paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

• 2 tablespoons water

• Cooked egg noodles or rice, for serving

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Place the sliced onions and garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker.

2. Layer the chicken thighs over the onions.

3. Sprinkle Hungarian sweet paprika, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using) over the chicken.

4. Pour chicken broth into the slow cooker.

5. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until chicken is tender and cooked through.

6. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water until smooth. Add to the slow cooker and stir gently.

7. Let the sauce thicken for 10-15 minutes with the slow cooker on high.

8. Turn off heat and stir in sour cream until fully incorporated and creamy.

9. Serve chicken and sauce over egg noodles or rice, garnished with fresh parsley.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 6 hours | Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes

Kcal: 325 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

A Taste of Hungarian Comfort Food

Chicken Paprikash, or Paprikás Csirke as it’s known in Hungary, is a dish that has stood the test of time crossing borders, cultures, and generations. It’s one of the most beloved comfort foods in Hungarian cuisine, known for its rich, paprika-forward flavor and creamy, savory sauce. Traditionally prepared on the stovetop with bone-in chicken simmered in a paprika-spiced gravy, it’s often served with Hungarian dumplings called nokedli or over egg noodles.

In today’s fast-paced world, many home cooks seek the comfort of traditional dishes but don’t have the time to commit to long hours in the kitchen. That’s where this Slow Cooker Chicken Paprikash comes in a modern, convenient twist on the classic that allows the flavors to develop slowly while you go about your day. Whether you’re new to Hungarian cuisine or a seasoned fan, this recipe brings tradition and simplicity together in one pot.

What Makes Paprikash Unique?

At the heart of Chicken Paprikash lies its namesake spice paprika. This vibrant red powder, made from ground sweet peppers, is a staple in Hungarian cuisine. But not just any paprika will do. Authentic Hungarian sweet paprika imparts a rich, earthy flavor with just the right balance of sweetness and heat. For added depth, many recipes (including this one) incorporate a bit of smoked paprika as well, creating layers of flavor that make this dish truly unforgettable.

What sets Paprikash apart from other chicken stews or creamy chicken recipes is the balance between the peppery warmth of paprika and the velvety richness of sour cream. This combination is what gives the sauce its signature tang and creaminess. The result is a dish that feels indulgent but still nourishing perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re craving something soulful and satisfying.

The Benefits of the Slow Cooker Method

Cooking Chicken Paprikash in the slow cooker doesn’t just save time it enhances the dish in many ways. As the chicken cooks slowly over several hours, it becomes incredibly tender and juicy, soaking up all the aromatic flavors from the onion, garlic, and paprika-infused broth.

One of the most common issues with stovetop paprikash is the potential for the sauce to break when the sour cream is added. In the slow cooker version, the sour cream is stirred in at the very end, ensuring a smooth and silky texture without the risk of curdling. Additionally, using boneless, skinless chicken thighs ensures the meat stays moist and flavorful, even after hours of cooking.

Another advantage is the ease of preparation. This is a true “set it and forget it” recipe perfect for busy weeknights, weekend meal preps, or even hosting guests. You can prepare everything in the morning and return home to a house that smells like you’ve been cooking all day.

Serving Suggestions

While traditionalists might insist on serving Chicken Paprikash with Hungarian dumplings or spaetzle, there are plenty of delicious and easy alternatives. The most popular and accessible pairing is wide egg noodles, which soak up the creamy paprika sauce beautifully.

Other options include:

• White or brown rice for a slightly healthier base

• Mashed potatoes for extra comfort

• Crusty bread to mop up every last bit of sauce

• Cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb variation

Don’t forget a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.

For a complete meal, consider serving your paprikash with a simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables on the side.

Customizing the Dish

One of the best things about this slow cooker version of Chicken Paprikash is how versatile it is. Here are some easy modifications you can make based on your preferences or dietary needs:

• Spice Level: If you like a bit of heat, feel free to increase the cayenne pepper or use hot Hungarian paprika. For a milder version, stick to sweet paprika only.

• Protein Options: Don’t have chicken thighs on hand? You can use bone-in chicken or even chicken breasts, though thighs tend to hold up better during long cooking times.

• Dairy-Free Version: Substitute the sour cream with a plant-based alternative like unsweetened coconut yogurt or a cashew-based sour cream.

• Extra Veggies: Bulk up the dish with sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or diced tomatoes for more texture and nutrients.

Why This Recipe Is a Keeper

This Slow Cooker Chicken Paprikash isn’t just another chicken dish it’s a reminder that comfort food can be both traditional and practical. It’s ideal for families, meal preppers, or anyone who enjoys full-flavored meals without spending hours in the kitchen.

Because it’s made in the slow cooker, the flavors have time to meld and develop. The result is a sauce so rich and flavorful, you’ll want to drink it by the spoonful. Plus, it’s a dish that appeals to a wide range of palates kids, adults, picky eaters, and adventurous foodies alike.

And the best part? It tastes even better the next day, making leftovers something to look forward to. Simply store the cooled dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze it for future cozy meals.

Conclusion:

Slow Cooker Chicken Paprikash is a beautiful marriage of old-world tradition and modern convenience. It respects the flavors and techniques of Hungarian cooking while offering a hands-off approach perfect for today’s busy lifestyles. The combination of tender chicken, bold paprika, and velvety sour cream sauce delivers everything you want in a comforting meal rich flavor, satisfying texture, and heartwarming aroma.

Whether you’re introducing your family to a new international dish or revisiting an old favorite, this version of Chicken Paprikash belongs in your recipe rotation. It’s the kind of meal that invites you to slow down, savor each bite, and maybe even go back for seconds.