Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks with Steamed Rice Recipe

If you are craving something that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then the Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks with Steamed Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish is a delightful combination of tender chicken drumsticks kissed with smoky paprika, simmered in a luscious, velvety cream sauce that’s loaded with flavor. Paired with perfectly steamed rice, it’s a comforting yet elegant meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you are cooking for family or friends, this recipe delivers that irresistible balance of spice, creaminess, and heartiness in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks with Steamed Rice Recipe lies in its simple, approachable ingredients that come together to create unforgettable flavor and texture. Each element plays a crucial role—from the smoky paprika that gives the chicken its distinctive aroma to the creamy sauce that brings everything together in rich harmony.

• 6 chicken drumsticks: Look for plump, fresh drumsticks to ensure juicy, tender meat that absorbs the sauce beautifully.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: Ideal for searing the chicken to a golden crust without overpowering the flavors.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken and enriching every bite.
• 1 tsp smoked paprika: The star spice that gives the dish its signature smoky depth and warm color.
• 1 tbsp butter: Adds richness to the creamy sauce while softening the onions perfectly.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped: Provides a subtle sweetness and texture in the sauce.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: Brings aromatic, savory warmth that complements the paprika beautifully.
• 1 tsp dried thyme: Adds earthiness and complexity, balancing the creaminess.
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Just a pinch for those who enjoy a subtle kick of heat.
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce to that perfect creamy consistency.
• 1 cup chicken broth: The flavor base for the sauce, keeping it savory and light.
• 3/4 cup heavy cream: The secret ingredient for that luxurious, silky sauce we all crave.
• 1 tbsp tomato paste: Adds brightness and subtle tang that enhances the sauce’s complexity.
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard: Lends a mild tanginess that lifts and balances the creaminess.
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Finishing touch for freshness and a pop of color on the dish.
• 2 cups cooked white rice: The perfect neutral side that soaks up every bit of the creamy sauce.

How to Make Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks with Steamed Rice Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels — this step is crucial to getting a nice crisp sear. Then season them evenly with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Letting them rest for 15 minutes at room temperature helps the spices penetrate the meat, setting the stage for bold flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Drumsticks

Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place the drumsticks carefully and sear them without moving for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side, until they develop a golden brown crust. This caramelization brings incredible depth to the finished dish. Once browned, transfer the drumsticks to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt. Toss in the finely chopped onion and cook it gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it turns soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes if using, then cook for another minute until fragrant. These aromatics form the delicious backbone of your creamy sauce.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Paprika Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly and cooking for about one minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to dissolve all lumps, then stir in the tomato paste, Dijon mustard, and heavy cream. Continue stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and starts to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Simmer the Chicken in Sauce

Return the seared drumsticks to the skillet, nestling them gently into the creamy sauce. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, turning the chicken once halfway through. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the sauce has thickened to a luscious consistency that coats the chicken perfectly.

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Parsley and Taste

Stir in freshly chopped parsley, then give the sauce a final taste to adjust salt, pepper, or any seasoning. This last step adds a fresh, herby brightness that beautifully complements the smoky richness of the dish.

How to Serve Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks with Steamed Rice Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle additional fresh parsley on top just before serving to brighten the dish visually and add a fresh herbal note that contrasts the creamy sauce. A wedge of lemon on the side can also add a lovely pop of acidity for those who enjoy a zesty finish.

Side Dishes

While steamed white rice is the classic and perfect partner to soak up the indulgent sauce, you can also pair this dish with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad if you want to add some crunch and freshness on the side. Steamed green beans or sautéed spinach work wonderfully to balance out the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For an extra inviting presentation, arrange the drumsticks neatly over a bed of fluffy rice on each plate. Drizzle extra sauce generously over the top, and garnish with parsley and a sprinkle of paprika for an appealing finish. Alternatively, serve family-style in the skillet so everyone can help themselves to the saucy goodness directly from the pan.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The creamy sauce clings beautifully to the chicken, so leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store the steamed rice separately to prevent it from becoming soggy, then reheat both gently before serving.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if you want to save time on another busy day. Cool completely then place chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. For best quality, keep rice frozen separately or cook fresh upon reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken and sauce gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream sauce from separating. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it. Reheat rice in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little water to restore fluffiness.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of chicken instead of drumsticks?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs or even bone-in breasts can be used. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is cooked through and tender. Drumsticks are preferred for their juicy, flavorful meat and ease of eating.

Is smoked paprika essential for the flavor?

Yes, smoked paprika gives this recipe its signature smoky warmth and vibrant color. If you only have regular paprika, it will still work but the dish will miss that distinctive smoky note.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. Butter can be replaced with olive oil or a vegan butter substitute. Keep in mind the flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

How spicy is this dish?

It’s moderately mild with just a gentle kick from the optional red pepper flakes. You can easily omit them for a milder version or add more for extra heat based on your preference.

What type of rice is best for serving with this recipe?

Classic steamed white rice works perfectly as it soaks up the sauce nicely. Basmati or jasmine rice adds a fragrant touch, but plain white rice is ideal for balancing out the rich creaminess of the dish.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks with Steamed Rice Recipe that makes it a comfort food hero you’ll want to cook again and again. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together around the table, inviting warm conversations and happy sighs after every bite. Don’t hesitate, give this recipe a try soon — I promise it will become one of your go-to favorites for a deliciously cozy dinner.

Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks with Steamed Rice Recipe

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Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks with Steamed Rice is a comforting dish that combines smoky paprika-seasoned chicken drumsticks with a rich and velvety cream sauce, served over fluffy steamed white rice. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

• Author: Paula
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

For the Chicken

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

For the Creamy Sauce

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, 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 fresh parsley, chopped

For Serving

• 2 cups cooked white rice

Instructions

1. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Let them rest at room temperature for 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2. Sear the Drumsticks: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the drumsticks and sear them for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove the drumsticks from the skillet and place them on a plate.
3. Prepare the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, add butter and sauté the finely chopped onion for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic, dried thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes if using, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce: Sprinkle all-purpose flour evenly over the onion mixture and cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, then add tomato paste, Dijon mustard, and heavy cream. Stir continuously until the sauce is smooth and starts to thicken.
5. Simmer the Chicken: Return the seared drumsticks to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, turning the drumsticks once halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F) and the sauce is thickened.
6. Finish and Serve: Stir in freshly chopped parsley into the sauce, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the creamy paprika chicken drumsticks over steamed white rice, spooning extra sauce over the top and garnishing with additional parsley if desired.

Notes

• Start cooking your rice when you begin searing the chicken to have both ready simultaneously.
• Allow the chicken to rest briefly in the sauce after cooking for deeper, melded flavors.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked safely to 165°F.
• Red pepper flakes are optional; omit if you prefer less heat.
• For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free variation.