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Creamy Paprika Chicken with Rice Recipe

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3.8 from 10 reviews

Creamy Paprika Chicken with Rice is a comforting and flavorful weeknight dinner featuring tender chicken pieces seasoned with smoked paprika, cooked in a silky cream sauce with garlic, onions, and red bell pepper, served over fluffy white rice. This dish balances smoky and creamy flavors, making it satisfying and easy to prepare.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 1.5 pounds chicken thighs or tenders, cut into chunks
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Vegetables

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced

Liquids & Oils

  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Other

  • 1 cup uncooked white rice
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat the skillet: Place a skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, allowing it to warm up.
  2. Season and sear the chicken: Season the chicken chunks with salt, pepper, and half (1 teaspoon) of the smoked paprika. Add the chicken to the hot skillet and sear until golden brown on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and sliced red bell pepper.
  4. Add remaining paprika and cook: Sprinkle the remaining 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika over the vegetables and continue cooking for another 2 minutes to develop the smoky flavor.
  5. Simmer chicken with broth: Return the seared chicken pieces to the skillet. Pour in 1/2 cup chicken broth and let the mixture simmer gently for 5 minutes to meld flavors and cook the chicken through.
  6. Add cream and thicken sauce: Stir in 3/4 cup heavy cream and continue to simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and becomes silky. Avoid boiling to keep the cream smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  7. Cook the rice: While the sauce is simmering, cook 1 cup of white rice according to package instructions until fluffy and tender.
  8. Serve: Spoon the creamy paprika chicken over the cooked white rice and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Use smoked paprika for the best smoky flavor that complements the creamy sauce.
  • Do not boil the sauce after adding the cream to prevent curdling and maintain smooth texture.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley for a bright, herbal touch or chili flakes if you prefer a spicy finish.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://cozykitchenbymaya.com/creamy-paprika-chicken-with-rice-recipe/