Ultimate Creamy Paprika Chicken with Rice: A Comfort Food Classic Made Easy

There’s something deeply comforting about a hearty, creamy chicken dish served over warm, fluffy rice. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in a cozy hug after a long day. Our Ultimate Creamy Paprika Chicken with Rice is just that—a soul-satisfying dinner perfect for chilly evenings, busy weeknights, or when you’re simply craving something deliciously indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen.

Inspired by Hungarian flavors and Western-style simplicity, this dish brings together tender chicken breast, vibrant red bell peppers, and aromatic spices in a luxuriously creamy sauce. It’s a recipe passed down in many family kitchens, often modified and made with love. This version strikes the perfect balance between comfort and bold flavor, making it a hit at the dinner table every time.

---

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Paprika Chicken

Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this paprika chicken checks all the boxes. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your weekly meal rotation:

• Quick and easy: Just 15 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cook time.

• Family-friendly: Mild, savory flavors that even picky eaters enjoy.

• Customizable: Add a spicy kick or swap in your favorite vegetables.

• Nutritious and filling: Lean protein, vibrant veggies, and hearty rice make it a complete meal.

---

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this comforting paprika chicken recipe, gather the following simple pantry and fridge staples:

• 2 large chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized cubes

• 1 large red bell pepper, chopped

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 teaspoons paprika (smoked or sweet, depending on your flavor preference)

• 1 cup cream or crème fraîche

• ¾ cup chicken broth

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• Cooked white or brown rice, for serving

Optional Add-Ins:

• A pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for heat

• Mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables

• Substitute sour cream for a tangier flavor

---

Step-by-Step Instructions

This recipe comes together in just a few easy steps. Here’s how to make the ultimate creamy paprika chicken with rice:

1. Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet or deep sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft and translucent. This base adds depth to the sauce, creating a savory aroma that signals something delicious is on the way.

2. Cook the Chicken

Add the diced chicken breast to the pan. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden and nearly cooked through.

3. Add Bell Pepper and Paprika

Stir in the chopped red bell pepper and paprika. Cook for another 2 minutes, letting the paprika bloom and infuse the oil and chicken with its deep, smoky flavor.

4. Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the pan. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and let cook for 5–7 minutes. This helps the chicken cook fully and softens the bell peppers.

5. Stir in the Cream

Uncover the pan and reduce the heat to low. Stir in the cream or crème fraîche. Simmer gently for 5–6 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the chicken beautifully. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a pinch of chili flakes for heat.

6. Serve with Rice

Spoon the creamy paprika chicken over a bed of steamed rice. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

---

Tips for Perfect Paprika Chicken

• Choose your paprika wisely: Smoked paprika adds depth and a woodsy aroma, while sweet paprika offers a milder, more rounded flavor. You can mix both for a layered taste.

• Don’t rush the cream: Let the sauce simmer gently after adding the cream. High heat can cause it to separate or curdle.

• Make it richer: Add a tablespoon of butter with the cream for an extra-luxurious finish.

• Balance the texture: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth. If it’s too thin, simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce.

---

What to Serve with Paprika Chicken

While rice is the classic companion to creamy paprika chicken, there are other equally satisfying pairings:

• Mashed potatoes – a velvety base to soak up the sauce

• Buttered noodles – a comforting, quick alternative

• Quinoa – for a protein-packed twist

• Roasted vegetables – add color and a healthy crunch to your plate

For a refreshing contrast, serve with a side salad of arugula, cucumber, and a light lemon vinaigrette.

---

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

One of the best parts of this dish? It makes excellent leftovers. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving on high to prevent the cream from separating.

• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce (without rice) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as directed above.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicier and work beautifully in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may need a few extra minutes to cook through.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes—this dish is naturally gluten-free, provided your chicken broth and cream are certified gluten-free.

Can I make it dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cooking cream. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

How can I make it spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, hot paprika, or a dash of chili flakes when adding the paprika to increase the heat.

---

A Flavorful Dish with Global Roots

Though this version is simplified for everyday cooking, paprika chicken draws inspiration from Hungarian Chicken Paprikash (Paprikás Csirke)—a rustic stew traditionally made with bone-in chicken, sour cream, and hot or sweet paprika. It’s a dish steeped in history and comfort, cherished across generations.

Our take adds a creamy, Western-style twist with lean chicken breast and streamlined steps, making it ideal for modern kitchens without losing the heart of the original.

---

Make It Your Own: Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, try these creative variations to keep things fresh:

Mushroom Paprika Chicken

Add sliced cremini or button mushrooms when sautéing the onion for an earthy twist.

Spicy Paprika Chicken

Use hot smoked paprika and stir in harissa or sriracha to turn up the heat.

Vegetarian Paprika Bowl

Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based alternative. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Low-Carb Option

Serve the creamy chicken over cauliflower rice or zoodles for a lighter, keto-friendly meal.

Print