Delicious Chickpea Paprikash : A Bold Plant-Based Take on Hungarian Comfort Food

If you’re craving something hearty, smoky, and soul-warming without the heaviness of meat, this Chickpea Paprikash is exactly what your dinner table needs. Inspired by the traditional Hungarian Chicken Paprika recipe, this plant-based version swaps out the chicken for creamy chickpeas while preserving all the rich, peppery flavor that makes the classic so beloved.

Perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone looking to eat more plant-based meals, this easy one-pot recipe delivers bold taste, nourishing ingredients, and serious comfort in every bite. Whether you’re a fan of Central European cuisine or just love paprika-forward dishes, this will become a go-to weeknight favorite.

Let’s explore how to make this dish shine in your kitchen.

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What Is Chickpea Paprikash?

Chickpea Paprikash is a vegan adaptation of Chicken Paprikash, a staple of Hungarian cuisine. Traditionally made with chicken stewed in a rich sauce of onions, paprika, sour cream, and broth, Paprikash is known for its deep, smoky flavor and creamy consistency.

This version replaces chicken with protein-packed chickpeas, creating a dish that’s just as hearty but plant-forward. The result is a stew-like meal that’s ideal for serving over grains, noodles, or crusty bread. It’s a comforting blend of sweet and smoked paprika, velvety tomato, and the earthiness of chickpeas—true Hungarian comfort food, reimagined.

If you enjoy warm, flavorful meals with simple ingredients like our Pumpkin Chicken Chili or Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Chicken, you’ll love this one.

Ingredients for Chickpea Paprikash

Here’s everything you need to make this cozy and flavorful dish. Stick with high-quality paprika—it makes all the difference.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• ½ cup vegetable broth
• ½ cup unsweetened plant-based yogurt or vegan sour cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Note: The combination of sweet and smoked paprika is key to mimicking the signature depth of Hungarian Chicken Paprikash.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Minimal effort, minimal cleanup—just how a cozy recipe should be.

• Medium to large skillet or saucepan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Can opener
• Serving bowls or plates

You’ll love this as much as you love easy meals like our Garlicky Kale with White Beans and Lemon.

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How to Make Chickpea Paprikash – Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the onion and garlic
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, stirring frequently.

Step 2: Add paprika and tomato paste
Stir in both sweet and smoked paprika, followed by the tomato paste. Cook for 1 minute, allowing the spices to bloom and the tomato paste to darken slightly.

Step 3: Add chickpeas and broth
Add the rinsed chickpeas and vegetable broth. Stir well to coat everything in the rich paprika mixture. Simmer for 8–10 minutes, letting the sauce thicken and flavors meld.

Step 4: Stir in plant-based yogurt
Reduce heat to low and gently stir in the vegan yogurt or sour cream. Mix until fully incorporated and creamy. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Serve and garnish
Spoon the Chickpea Paprikash into bowls and top with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm.

Just like our Vegetarian Baked Ziti, this meal is cozy, nutritious, and deeply satisfying.

Tips for the Perfect Chickpea Paprikash

• Use fresh paprika – Old or faded paprika can taste dull. A fresh tin ensures deep, rich flavor.
• Simmer gently – This allows the chickpeas to soak in all the smoky flavor without becoming mushy.
• Don’t skip the yogurt – It adds the essential creaminess that makes Paprikash what it is.
• Add heat if desired – A pinch of cayenne or chili flakes can spice things up.

Looking for more warming dinner ideas? Try our Creamy Mushroom Pasta.

Ingredient Swaps & Variations

• Add veggies – Include spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for more nutrition.
• Make it gluten-free – Serve over rice or potatoes instead of traditional noodles.
• Add protein – Not vegan? Add shredded rotisserie chicken or tofu.
• Use different legumes – White beans or lentils also work well in this sauce.

This dish is as versatile as our Vegetable Casserole, making it perfect for leftovers or pantry-based cooking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking chickpeas – They can turn mushy. Just simmer until heated through.
• Burning paprika – Add it with a bit of moisture to avoid bitterness.
• Adding yogurt too early – High heat can cause it to curdle. Stir it in off-heat or on low.
• Under-seasoning – Taste at every stage and adjust accordingly.

Avoid these pitfalls to get the creamy, savory consistency you’d expect from an authentic Hungarian Chicken Paprika Recipe—with none of the meat.

Serving Suggestions

This comforting stew pairs beautifully with:

• Fluffy rice or quinoa
• Egg noodles or wide pasta (traditional)
• Mashed potatoes
• Crusty bread like Garlic Parmesan Focaccia
• Light salad, such as Cucumber Dill Salad

You can even serve it alongside Honey-Glazed Carrots and Green Beans for a well-rounded, colorful plate.

How to Store and Reheat Chickpea Paprikash

To store:
Let the dish cool completely and transfer to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

To freeze:
Place cooled Paprikash in freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat:
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much. Stir gently to prevent curdling.

If you love make-ahead meals, don’t miss our Freezer Breakfast Sandwiches.

Chickpea and Paprika Recipes You’ll Love

Love chickpeas or smoky paprika? Explore more comforting recipes:

• Sweet Potato and Chickpea Curry
• Pumpkin Chicken Chili
• Garlicky Kale with White Beans and Lemon
• Lentil Stew over Mashed Potatoes
• Vegetarian Pasta Primavera

Each of these recipes is flavorful, satisfying, and perfect for anyone exploring plant-forward meals.

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FAQs About Chickpea Paprikash

Can I use canned chickpeas?
Yes, canned chickpeas are convenient and work perfectly. Just rinse and drain before using.

What type of paprika should I use?
Use a mix of sweet and smoked paprika for depth and balance. Hungarian paprika is ideal.

Can I add meat?
Of course! This recipe works well with shredded chicken, especially for fans of traditional Chicken Paprikash.

What plant-based yogurt is best?
Unsweetened almond or cashew-based yogurts work best for a creamy consistency.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe scales easily and makes great leftovers.

Final Thoughts + Call to Action

This Chickpea Paprikash is a bold, comforting dish that brings the warmth of Hungarian Chicken Paprika into the plant-based world without losing any of the flavor. With simple ingredients, rich paprika, and a creamy finish, it’s proof that you don’t need meat to enjoy comfort food at its best.

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