Mom’s Chicken Paprikash Soup Recipe: Easy, Cozy Comfort in a Bowl

Victoria

The Keeper of Heartfelt Homemade Traditions

There’s something deeply comforting about the way Mom’s Chicken Paprikash Soup fills the kitchen with its rich aroma of smoky paprika and tender chicken simmered to perfection. Whenever I crave a warm, hearty meal that wraps me in nostalgia yet feels fresh and vibrant, this recipe is my go-to. What makes this soup truly special is its perfect balance of creamy texture and bold, savory flavors—without requiring hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or simply tired of fast food takeout, this dish strikes just the right chord of simplicity and soulfulness. Let me take you through how to recreate this timeless Hungarian favorite, guaranteed to become a staple in your family’s meal rotation.

Why choose Mom’s Chicken Paprikash Soup Recipe?

Comfort in a bowl: This recipe delivers warm, cozy flavors that feel like a hug on chilly days. Simple yet satisfying: Minimal ingredients and easy steps mean you’ll have dinner ready without fuss. Rich, smoky taste: The paprika infuses every bite with authentic Hungarian flair. Versatile and customizable: Add noodles, dumplings, or veggies to make it your own. Crowd-pleaser guaranteed: Perfect for family dinners or impressing friends with homemade goodness.

Mom’s Chicken Paprikash Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base

Chicken thighs – choose bone-in for richer flavor and tender meat.
Sweet paprika – the star spice that gives Mom’s Chicken Paprikash Soup recipe its smoky warmth.
Onion – finely chopped to add a subtle sweetness and depth.
Garlic cloves – minced, enhancing the savory aroma.
Chicken broth – homemade or low-sodium store-bought to keep the soup light and flavorful.
Tomato paste – adds a hint of acidity and richness to balance the creaminess.
Salt and pepper – adjust to taste, bringing all flavors together beautifully.

For the Creamy Finish

Sour cream – stirred in at the end for that velvety, tangy finish.
Flour – a small amount to thicken the soup without heaviness.

Optional Add-ins

Egg noodles or spaetzle – tossed in to turn the soup into a hearty meal.
Fresh parsley – sprinkled on top for a burst of color and freshness.
Bell pepper – diced and added for extra crunch and sweetness.

How to Make Mom’s Chicken Paprikash Soup Recipe

Sauté aromatics: Warm 2 tbsp oil over medium heat; add 1 chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves, cooking 4–5 minutes until translucent and lightly golden.
Bloom paprika: Remove pot from heat, stir in 2 heaping tbsp sweet paprika until vibrant red, then return to low heat for 30 seconds to release smoky aroma.
Brown chicken: Add 4 bone-in chicken thighs, skin-side down first; cook 3 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crisp, enhancing flavor.
Add broth & tomato: Pour in 6 cups chicken broth and 2 tbsp tomato paste, scraping browned bits; bring to a gentle boil to deepen the rich, savory base.
Simmer chicken: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes until chicken is fall-off-the-bone tender and the flavors meld beautifully.

For the Creamy Finish:

Thicken soup: Whisk 2 tbsp flour with ¼ cup warm broth in a small bowl until smooth, then stir mixture into pot and cook 2–3 minutes until soup coats the back of a spoon.
Finish with sour cream: Remove pot from heat, fold in ½ cup sour cream until silky smooth, creating a luscious texture and tangy flavor.
Shred chicken: Transfer thighs to a cutting board, shred meat off bones, discard bones, and return shredded chicken to pot, stirring gently.

Optional: Sprinkle chopped parsley and a dash of paprika before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Mom’s Chicken Paprikash Soup Recipe?

Creating a cozy meal is all about balance and harmony on your dinner table.

Crusty Bread: The perfect vessel for sopping up every last drop of that rich, creamy soup.
Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these add a comforting texture that complements the silky soup beautifully.
Simple Side Salad: Fresh greens with a drizzle of vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup. Toss in some cherry tomatoes for pops of flavor.
Sour Cream Biscuits: Flavorful, fluffy biscuits echo the tangy sour cream in the soup, making them an ideal pairing.
Crispy Fried Onions: Add a delightful crunch and savory flavor that enhances each spoonful of the soup.
Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans deliver a fresh, crisp bite, balancing the richness of the soup. Drizzle with lemon juice to brighten the dish!
Red Wine: A smooth, medium-bodied red wine can elevate the entire dining experience, complementing the spices in the soup.
Apple Strudel: End your meal with a slice of warm apple strudel; its sweetness will contrast beautifully with the savory soup.

Expert Tips for Mom’s Chicken Paprikash Soup Recipe

Use quality paprika: Opt for sweet Hungarian paprika for the authentic smoky flavor that defines Mom’s Chicken Paprikash Soup recipe.
Don’t rush browning: Browning the chicken thighs well adds depth—avoid overcrowding the pan to get a perfect golden crust.
Temper sour cream: To prevent curdling, stir a small amount of hot soup into the sour cream before adding it back to the pot.
Consistent simmer: Keep heat low and steady while simmering chicken to ensure tender meat and rich flavor development.
Thicken carefully: Mix flour with warm broth first to avoid lumps and achieve that silky, creamy soup texture.

How to Store and Freeze Mom’s Chicken Paprikash Soup

Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat over low heat on the stove and stir well to restore the creamy texture of Mom’s Chicken Paprikash Soup, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Variations & Substitutions for Mom’s Chicken Paprikash Soup Recipe

Feel free to put your own twist on this hearty soup, creating a personalized bowl of warmth and comfort!

Dairy-Free: Substitute sour cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free yogurt for a rich, creamy finish without the dairy.
Gluten-Free: Use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening; just whisk it into the broth separately before adding to the soup.
Extra Veggies: Add diced carrots and celery during sautéing for a rich depth of flavor and a nutritious boost; these will soften beautifully and enhance the dish.
Spice it Up: Toss in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to introduce a delightful kick, perfect for those who crave a bit of heat.
Chicken Swap: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lighter option; cook for a shorter time to maintain tenderness while still enjoying the flavors.
Herbal Infusion: Stir in fresh thyme or rosemary during simmering to introduce an aromatic, woodsy profile that complements the smoky paprika beautifully.
Creamy Variations: For a different twist, mix in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half just before serving for an even richer, luscious soup.
Noodle Add-In: Enhance heartiness by adding uncooked egg noodles or gluten-free pasta 10 minutes before the soup is done; they cook right in the broth for a comforting finish.

Make Ahead Options

Mom’s Chicken Paprikash Soup Recipe is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can easily sauté the aromatics and brown the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate these components in an airtight container. Additionally, you can whisk the flour and broth mixture ahead of time, which will keep the soup thick and creamy when you finish it. When ready to serve, heat the pot, stir in your prepped ingredients, then add the chicken broth and tomato paste as you simmer for 20–25 minutes, bringing everything together into a comforting bowl of goodness just as delicious as when it was freshly made!

Mom’s Chicken Paprikash Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken for Mom’s Chicken Paprikash Soup recipe?
I recommend using bone-in chicken thighs for this soup; they provide richer flavor and tender, juicy meat. Look for thighs with a pinkish hue and no dark spots—freshness is key to that comforting taste.

Can I store Mom’s Chicken Paprikash Soup after cooking?
Absolutely! Keep your soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do it gently on the stove or microwave to preserve the creamy texture and rich flavors you love.

Is it possible to freeze Mom’s Chicken Paprikash Soup? How?
Very! Freeze the soup in individual portions using freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a bit of headspace for expansion. Store for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly on low heat with a splash of broth to revive that silky finish.

Why does my sour cream sometimes curdle when added to the soup?
This happens when sour cream meets high heat too fast. To avoid this, temper the sour cream: whisk a small amount of hot soup into it first, then gradually stir the mixture back into the pot off the heat. This keeps your soup silky and smooth!

Is Mom’s Chicken Paprikash Soup safe for pets or people with dairy allergies?
This beloved recipe includes sour cream for creaminess, so it’s not suitable for pets or those with dairy allergies. For a dairy-free alternative, try substituting sour cream with a plant-based yogurt or coconut cream to keep much of the richness intact.