Print

Creamy Paprika Chicken with Rice: A Simple 5-Star Dinner

Creamy Paprika Chicken with Rice in a cast iron skillet

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks with Steamed Rice features tender roasted chicken smothered in a smoky, creamy paprika sauce and served over fluffy white rice for a rich and comforting meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 chicken drumsticks
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
  • 2 cups cooked white rice

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400ยฐF (200ยฐC). Pat the chicken drumsticks dry and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

2. Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the drumsticks on all sides until golden brown, about 5 to 6 minutes.

3. Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 20 to 25 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked.

4. Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautรฉing until softened and translucent.

5. Stir in thyme, crushed red pepper flakes, and flour. Cook for 1 minute.

6. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer until slightly thickened.

7. Stir in heavy cream, tomato paste, and Dijon mustard. Simmer gently for 5 to 6 minutes, then stir in chopped parsley.

8. Once the chicken is done, return it to the stovetop if needed. Pour the sauce over the drumsticks and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.

9. Serve hot over cooked white rice and garnish with additional parsley.

Notes

Bone-in, skin-on drumsticks provide the best flavor and moisture.

Smoked paprika adds depth, but regular paprika can be substituted.

For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary.