Creamy Paprika Chicken with Rice

Creamy Paprika Chicken with Rice is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and comforting textures. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering a creamy sauce that enhances tender chicken pieces. The dish is wonderfully versatile, allowing you to serve it alongside rice, pasta, or even fresh vegetables. With its unique blend of smoked paprika and cream, this meal is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Flavorful Combination: The rich sauce made with smoked paprika and cream elevates the taste of chicken, making every bite delicious.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy with rice, pasta, or even a side of steamed veggies for a well-rounded meal.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping ingredients to suit dietary needs.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to be a hit at gatherings, pleasing both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having everything ready will make the process enjoyable and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet allows for even cooking and browning of the chicken, essential for flavor development.
• Measuring Cups: Precise measurements ensure the right balance of ingredients for that perfect creamy sauce.
• Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware while mixing flavors seamlessly.

Ingredients

Prep time: 15 min

Cooking time: 20 min

Servings: 23

Calories per serving: ~520 kcal

For the Chicken:

• 300g boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt & pepper

For the Sauce:

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 150ml chicken broth
• 150ml heavy cream
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• Salt & pepper

For the Rice:

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups water
• Pinch of salt

Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make Creamy Paprika Chicken with Rice

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Cook rice in salted water until fluffy; set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season chicken pieces with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add seasoned chicken to the skillet and brown on all sides; then remove from heat.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter. Sauté onion, red bell pepper, and garlic until softened. Stir in both smoked and sweet paprikas along with tomato paste.

Step 4: Simmer

Add chicken broth to the pan; bring to a simmer for about 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Add Cream

Pour in heavy cream and return browned chicken to the skillet. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly, stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Serve

Plate servings of fluffy rice topped with creamy paprika chicken. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving hot.

Notes & Variations

Add mushrooms for extra depth in flavor. Swap cream for coconut milk if you’re looking for a dairy-free version. Alternatively, serve this delicious dish with pasta instead of rice for a delightful twist!

How to Serve Creamy Paprika Chicken with Rice

Serving Creamy Paprika Chicken with Rice is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, these serving suggestions will elevate your dish and impress your guests.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh parsley – Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Chives – Add finely chopped chives for an onion-like flavor that complements the dish.

Pair with a Salad

• Crisp garden salad – A mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed lightly will add freshness.
• Caesar salad – A creamy Caesar salad can provide a nice contrast to the dish’s flavors.

Accompany with Bread

• Crusty bread – Serve slices of crusty bread for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• Garlic bread – The buttery garlic bread adds an aromatic touch to your meal.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Personalized servings – Present each portion in its bowl for a more intimate dining experience.
• Layered presentation – Layer rice at the bottom, topped with chicken and sauce for visual appeal.

How to Perfect Creamy Paprika Chicken with Rice

To achieve the best results when making Creamy Paprika Chicken with Rice, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish is flavorful and perfectly cooked.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh herbs and spices enhance the overall taste of the dish.
• Cook chicken thoroughly – Ensure chicken pieces are browned well for added flavor before adding them back to the sauce.
• Adjust creaminess – For a richer sauce, feel free to add more cream or substitute with coconut milk if desired.
• Simmer gently – Allow the sauce to simmer gently; this helps develop flavors without burning.
• Taste as you go – Regularly tasting during cooking helps adjust seasoning accurately.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Paprika Chicken with Rice

Complementing Creamy Paprika Chicken with Rice can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic side dishes that pair wonderfully with it.

1. Steamed broccoli – Bright green broccoli offers nutrients and color; steam lightly for tenderness.
2. Roasted vegetables – A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized adds flavor depth.
3. Garlic mashed potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side option.
4. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw provides refreshing texture; dress simply for balance.
5. Grilled asparagus – Lightly charred asparagus brings out natural sweetness and pairs nicely.
6. Quinoa salad – A protein-packed quinoa salad mixed with veggies offers a hearty alternative to rice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Paprika Chicken with Rice, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Not seasoning the chicken properly: Ensure you season the chicken with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper before cooking. This enhances flavor and prevents blandness.
• Overcooking the rice: Cook the rice until fluffy but avoid overcooking. Overcooked rice can turn mushy and spoil the dish’s texture.
• Neglecting to sauté vegetables sufficiently: Sautéing onions and peppers until softened adds depth to your sauce. Skipping this step can lead to a less flavorful dish.
• Skipping the simmering time: Allow the broth and cream mixture to simmer as this thickens the sauce. Rushing this process can result in a watery sauce.
• Using low-quality cream or broth: High-quality heavy cream and chicken broth make a significant difference in taste. Don’t compromise on these ingredients for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Creamy Paprika Chicken with Rice

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Creamy Paprika Chicken with Rice

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Creamy Paprika Chicken with Rice:

Can I use different meats in Creamy Paprika Chicken with Rice?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, turkey, or lamb based on your preference.

How can I make Creamy Paprika Chicken with Rice dairy-free?

You can replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.

What should I serve with Creamy Paprika Chicken with Rice?

This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a light salad for added freshness.

How do I adjust the spice level in Creamy Paprika Chicken with Rice?

To make it spicier, add cayenne pepper or chili flakes when cooking. For milder flavors, reduce smoked paprika.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Paprika Chicken with Rice is a delicious dish that brings comfort and warmth to any table. Its creamy sauce combined with tender chicken and fluffy rice makes it irresistible. Plus, you can easily customize it by adding vegetables or swapping ingredients based on what you have on hand. Try this recipe today!

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Creamy Paprika Chicken with Rice

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4

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Description

Creamy Paprika Chicken with Rice is a delightful combination of tender chicken pieces enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce infused with smoked paprika. This comforting dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, yet it remains simple to prepare. Served over fluffy rice, the meal is both satisfying and versatile—great on its own or paired with fresh vegetables. With just the right balance of flavors, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends while being customizable to suit various tastes.

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Ingredients

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• 300g boneless chicken breast
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 150ml chicken broth
• 150ml heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free)
• 1 cup basmati rice

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Instructions

1. Prepare rice according to package instructions in salted water; set aside.
2. Season chicken with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and brown chicken on all sides. Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened. Stir in smoked paprika and tomato paste.
4. Add chicken broth and simmer for about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in heavy cream (or coconut milk) and return browned chicken to the skillet. Cook until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Serve over rice garnished with fresh parsley.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: General

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 95mg