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Creamy Paprika Chicken with Rice

Tender chicken drumsticks simmered in a rich, creamy paprika sauce and served over fluffy rice. A cozy family dinner that’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for busy nights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken & Seasoning
  • 6 –8 chicken drumsticks or thighs
  • 1.5 tsp sweet paprika plus more to taste
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika optional
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • Sauce
  • 1 small onion finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for lighter
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard optional
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Rice
  • 1.5 cups long-grain rice
  • 3 cups water or chicken broth
  • Pinch of salt

Method
 

  1. Season the chicken: Pat drumsticks dry. Sprinkle with paprika, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  2. Brown: Heat oil/butter in a large skillet. Sear chicken on all sides until golden (about 6–8 minutes). Remove to a plate.
  3. Sauté aromatics: Add onion to the skillet and cook until soft. Stir in garlic for 30 seconds.
  4. Build the sauce: Pour in broth, scraping the pan. Stir in paprika and mustard. Return chicken to the pan.
  5. Simmer: Cover and cook 20–25 minutes, until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Make it creamy: Stir in cream and simmer uncovered 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened. Adjust salt and pepper.
  7. Cook the rice: While chicken simmers, cook rice in salted water/broth according to package instructions. Fluff.
  8. Serve: Spoon rice onto plates, top with chicken and plenty of creamy paprika sauce. Finish with herbs.

Notes

Use thighs if you prefer — reduce simmer time slightly.
For extra smokiness, add a pinch of smoked paprika.
Don’t boil the cream; gentle heat keeps the sauce silky.
Slow cooker option: add everything except cream to the crockpot (LOW 5–6 hours). Stir in cream during last 20 minutes.
Great with steamed veggies, salad, or crusty bread.