Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks with Steamed Rice

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in comfort and fills the belly with warmth, look no further than this Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks with Steamed Rice recipe. This dish has become a beloved family favorite in my home, combining tender chicken with a smoky, creamy sauce that’s simply irresistible. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special gathering, this delightful meal is sure to impress everyone around the table.

The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its rich flavors but also in its simplicity. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with fluffy steamed rice, making it an all-in-one dinner that satisfies all ages.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have dinner on the table in under an hour.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The savory flavors of paprika and creamy sauce make this dish a hit with both kids and adults.
• Comforting and Hearty: This meal is like a warm hug on a plate—perfect for cozy dinners at home.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve!
• Flexibility: Customize the recipe to use whatever veggies you have on hand for added nutrition.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this delicious Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks with Steamed Rice, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll gather:

For the Chicken

• 6 chicken drumsticks
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp smoked paprika

For the Sauce

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)

For Serving

• 2 cups cooked white rice

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative based on your preferences or what’s available in your pantry. Here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken thighs or even turkey drumsticks for a different twist.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or spinach into the sauce for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add some diced jalapeños for a kick!
• Creamy alternatives: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option while keeping that creamy texture.

How to Make Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks with Steamed Rice

Step 1: Preheat and Season

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat those lovely chicken drumsticks dry—they need to be seasoned well! Sprinkle salt, pepper, and smoked paprika over them. This seasoning will create a beautiful flavor base as they roast.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large ovenproof skillet or pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the drumsticks on all sides until they’re golden brown, about 5–6 minutes. Searing gives them that lovely crust while locking in moisture for juicy chicken!

Step 3: Roast the Chicken

Transfer your skillet directly to the oven (careful, it’s hot!) and roast those drumsticks for 20–25 minutes until fully cooked through. The oven does most of the work here while you can focus on making that delicious sauce.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

While your chicken cooks away happily, melt butter in another saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they’re translucent—this step is crucial as it brings out their natural sweetness.

Step 5: Build Flavor

Stir in dried thyme and optional red pepper flakes along with flour. Cook it for about one minute; this helps eliminate any raw flour taste while starting to build thickness for your sauce.

Step 6: Create Creaminess

Slowly whisk in chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer until slightly thickened. Then stir in heavy cream, tomato paste, and Dijon mustard. Let it simmer gently for about 5–6 minutes before adding freshly chopped parsley—this adds freshness!

Step 7: Combine & Simmer

Once your chicken is done roasting, return it to the stovetop where your sauce awaits! Pour it generously over those drumsticks and let them simmer together for another 2–3 minutes so they soak up all those amazing flavors.

Step 8: Serve It Up!

Now comes the best part! Serve your creamy paprika chicken hot over fluffy cooked white rice. Don’t forget to garnish with more parsley—it adds such lovely freshness right before enjoying!

This dish truly embodies comfort food at its finest! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks with Steamed Rice

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and these tips will help you create the perfect creamy paprika chicken drumsticks that are sure to impress!

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground smoked paprika can enhance the flavor profile significantly, making your dish even more aromatic and delicious.
• Don’t rush the searing: Taking the time to sear your chicken drumsticks until they’re golden brown adds depth of flavor and texture that makes a big difference in the final dish.
• Monitor cooking time: Chicken can dry out quickly if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for perfectly tender drumsticks.
• Adjust creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a non-dairy alternative. This keeps the dish creamy without being overly rich.
• Make it ahead: This dish can be made in advance and reheated gently on the stove. The flavors meld beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or hosting dinner guests!

How to Serve Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks with Steamed Rice

Presenting your creamy paprika chicken drumsticks beautifully will make your meal feel extra special. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of bright green parsley not only adds color but also brings freshness that complements the rich flavors.
• Lemon zest: A light dusting of lemon zest adds a zesty aroma that balances the creaminess of the sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: Bright green broccoli is not only nutritious but also provides a lovely contrast in color and texture to the creamy dish.
• Garlic bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up extra sauce while adding a delightful crunch to your meal.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers add sweetness and a beautiful array of colors on your plate.
• Mixed greens salad: A simple salad with mixed greens drizzled with olive oil and vinegar adds a refreshing bite that pairs nicely with the richness of the chicken.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re ready to impress family and friends with your delicious creamy paprika chicken drumsticks! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks with Steamed Rice recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time during busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken and rice to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the dish to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• For best results, store the chicken and rice separately if possible to maintain texture.

Freezing

• Cool the dish thoroughly before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
• For best quality, try to remove as much air as possible from bags before sealing.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat in a microwave-safe dish covered with a lid or microwave-safe wrap until heated through (about 3-5 minutes).
• Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use skinless chicken drumsticks for Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks with Steamed Rice?

Yes, skinless chicken drumsticks can be used! Just keep in mind that they may cook slightly faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

What can I serve with Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks with Steamed Rice?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. A light salad would also complement it nicely.

How spicy is the Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks with Steamed Rice?

The level of spice can be adjusted by modifying the amount of crushed red pepper flakes. You can omit them entirely for a milder flavor!

Can I substitute heavy cream in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter option while still achieving a creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks with Steamed Rice! It’s not only comforting but also packed with flavor that brings everyone together around the dinner table. This recipe is special because it’s easy enough for a weeknight meal yet delicious enough for entertaining. I can’t wait for you to try it—happy cooking!