Are you craving comforting, flavorful food that transports you to a cozy Bavarian kitchen? Then look no further! This recipe for Classic German Chicken Paprikasch is a delicious and surprisingly easy dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It's a fantastic example of hearty, homemade cooking, showcasing the best of German cuisine. This easy recipe is packed with flavor and delivers a healthy meal the whole family will love. Get ready to experience the magic of German food recipes!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tbsp paprika (sweet or smoked, depending on your preference)
- 1 tsp caraway seeds
- 1/2 tsp marjoram
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp sour cream or crème fraîche
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
Instructions:
-
Sauté the aromatics: Melt the butter or heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, bell peppers, and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
-
Bloom the spices: Add the paprika, caraway seeds, marjoram, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to release their aromas. This step adds depth of flavor to your delicious dish.
-
Brown the chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
-
Simmer the sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, and tomato paste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
-
Thicken the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the flour with 2 tablespoons of cold water to form a smooth slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering pot, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
-
Stir in the sour cream: Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the sour cream or crème fraîche. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with your favorite sides, such as dumplings, spaetzle, or mashed potatoes. This hearty and healthy meal is a perfect example of quick dinner ideas.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini would be delicious additions.
- If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend a portion of the cooked sauce before adding the sour cream.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with firm tofu or mushrooms.
- Add a splash of white wine or beer to the sauce for extra depth of flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This classic German chicken paprikasch recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. Enjoy this taste of Germany from the comfort of your own kitchen! It’s a testament to the wonderful world of homemade cooking and a surefire way to impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. This best recipe is perfect for any occasion.