Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Hungarian Chicken Goulash?
It is a comforting Hungarian dish featuring tender boneless chicken thighs, onions, and mushrooms simmered in a paprika-infused tomato sauce.
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using 8 boneless chicken thighs with the skins removed.
How should the chicken be prepared before cooking?
Remove the skins from the chicken thighs and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
How long does it take to sear the chicken?
The chicken should be seared over medium heat for about 15 minutes until well-browned on all sides.
How many onions are required for the goulash?
You will need 2 medium onions, peeled and roughly chopped.
How long should I sauté the onions?
Sauté the chopped onions for about 3 minutes until they become translucent.
What are the primary spices used in this dish?
The signature flavors come from 1 tablespoon of ground paprika and 1 teaspoon of whole caraway seeds.
When do I add the paprika and caraway seeds?
Stir them into the pan after the onions have sautéed and cook for an additional minute.
What type of mushrooms should be used?
The recipe calls for 115 grams of sliced button mushrooms.
How long do the mushrooms need to cook?
Cook the sliced mushrooms for about 2 minutes until they have softened.
What liquid base is used for the sauce?
The sauce is made from 14 ounces of drained canned chopped tomatoes and 1 1/4 cups of chicken stock.
Do I need to boil the sauce mixture?
Yes, after adding the tomatoes and stock, bring the mixture to a boil before lowering to a simmer.
How long does the chicken simmer in the sauce?
The chicken should simmer covered for 30 to 35 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
How do I thicken the goulash sauce?
Remove the lid after simmering and increase the heat slightly, cooking uncovered for 5-10 minutes while stirring regularly.
What is the recommended garnish?
Freshly chopped parsley is sprinkled over the top as a final garnish.
What are the best side dishes to serve with this goulash?
It pairs well with fluffy baked potatoes, creamy mashed potatoes, steamed cabbage, or green beans.
Is this a one-pot meal?
Yes, it is designed as a one-pot meal that can be prepared in a single large nonstick frying pan.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
While the recipe specifies thighs for tenderness, chicken breasts can be used, though they may cook faster.
What kind of paprika is used?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of ground paprika.
What is the origin of Goulash?
Goulash is a classic dish originating from Hungary.
Do the tomatoes need to be drained?
Yes, the recipe specifies that the canned chopped tomatoes should be drained before adding.
What heat setting should I use for simmering?
Use a gentle low heat for the 30-35 minute simmering period.
How much chicken stock is required?
You will need 1 1/4 cups of ready-to-use chicken stock.
What type of frying pan is recommended?
A large nonstick frying pan is recommended for the best results.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 main ingredients, including the chicken, vegetables, and seasonings.
Is this recipe suitable for families?
Yes, it is described as perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.
Can I use ground caraway instead of whole seeds?
The recipe calls for whole caraway seeds, but ground caraway can be used in a slightly smaller amount if necessary.
Does the chicken stay in the pan the whole time?
No, the chicken is seared and set aside while the onions and mushrooms are sautéed, then returned for simmering.
What color should the chicken be after searing?
The chicken should be well-browned on all sides.
How often should I stir during the thickening phase?
Stir regularly during the final 5-10 minutes of uncovered cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even thickening.