Name: Creamy Paprika Chicken with Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1.5 tsp paprika (sweet or smoked); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 tbsp olive oil or butter; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half; 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine); Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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Creamy paprika chicken with rice is one of my favorite comfort meals—it’s rich, flavorful, and totally satisfying. Tender chicken is simmered in a silky, paprika-spiced cream sauce and served over fluffy rice to soak up every last bit. It’s cozy, simple, and perfect for nights when I want something hearty and homemade without too much effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish combines smoky, savory flavors with creamy comfort. The paprika adds depth without being spicy, and the sauce clings beautifully to the chicken and rice. It’s made with simple pantry staples, comes together in one pan, and is easy enough for a weeknight but tasty enough for a special dinner. Plus, I can switch things up depending on what I have in the fridge. Creamy Paprika Chicken with Rice

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
salt
black pepper
paprika (sweet or smoked)
garlic (minced)
onion (chopped)
olive oil or butter
chicken broth
heavy cream or half-and-half
rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

I start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
Then I heat oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides (it doesn’t need to be fully cooked yet). I set it aside.
In the same pan, I sauté the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
Next, I pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom for extra flavor.
I stir in the cream and return the chicken to the pan, spooning sauce over the top.
I let everything simmer for 10–15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
While that cooks, I prepare the rice according to the package instructions.
Once everything’s ready, I serve the chicken and creamy sauce over a bed of rice and top with fresh parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings and takes around 35–40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a great option when I want a satisfying meal with minimal cleanup.

Variations

Sometimes I add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for a spicy kick. I’ve also stirred in spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies. When I want it lighter, I use half-and-half or unsweetened coconut milk instead of heavy cream. And if I’m in the mood for pasta, I swap out the rice for egg noodles or mashed potatoes.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the chicken and sauce gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce thickens too much. The rice can be reheated separately or together with the chicken. Creamy Paprika Chicken with Rice

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, I often use boneless chicken breasts—they cook a bit faster and stay juicy in the creamy sauce.

What kind of paprika should I use?

I usually use sweet paprika for a mild flavor, but smoked paprika adds a delicious depth. Hungarian paprika also works great if I want a more authentic flavor.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, I’ve made it with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. It’s still rich and flavorful.

Can I add vegetables?

Definitely. I like adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas to make it more of a one-pan meal.

What should I serve with this dish?

I usually serve it over rice, but mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or even crusty bread work great to soak up the sauce.

Conclusion

Creamy paprika chicken with rice is one of those reliable, satisfying meals I never get tired of making. It’s rich, comforting, and packed with flavor—but still quick and easy enough for any night of the week. Whether I’m feeding the family or just craving a cozy dinner, this recipe always delivers.