Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks with Steamed Rice
This dish brings together tender chicken drumsticks enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce with just the right kick from smoked paprika. Each bite is a delightful balance of flavors, with the smoky depth mixing beautifully with the creaminess. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this meal is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare. It’s an ideal choice for family gatherings or a casual weeknight meal when you want something comforting that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
The crispy exterior of the chicken contrasts nicely with the luscious, velvety sauce, creating a dish that feels both elegant and homey. Pair it with steamed rice, and you’ll have a complete meal that’s sure to please anyone at the table. Whether you’re entertaining or simply treating yourself, this recipe is bound to become a favorite.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time:
Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 25 min | Total Time: 35 min
How to Make Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks with Steamed Rice
Ingredients
- 6 chicken drumsticks
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 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)
- 2 cups cooked white rice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the chicken gets crispy as it cooks.
Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with a paper towel and season generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. This step not only adds flavor but also helps achieve that nice golden color.
Sear the Drumsticks: In a large ovenproof skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the drumsticks for about 5–6 minutes until they are golden brown on all sides. This locks in moisture and enhances the flavor.
Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast the chicken for about 20–25 minutes or until fully cooked through. You can check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
Make the Sauce: While the chicken is roasting, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until translucent. This will create a flavorful base for your sauce.
Thickening the Sauce: Stir in the dried thyme, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and flour. Let it cook for about a minute before gradually whisking in the chicken broth. Allow it to simmer and thicken.
Finish the Sauce: Stir in heavy cream, tomato paste, and Dijon mustard. Let the sauce simmer for another 5–6 minutes. This will create a rich and creamy coating for your chicken.
Combine and Serve: Once the chicken is ready, combine it with the sauce in the skillet. Let everything simmer together for 2–3 minutes before serving it over a bed of steamed rice. Just before serving, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Pro Tips
- Golden Crispiness: Make sure your chicken is dry before seasoning to achieve a crispy exterior. Excess moisture can steam the chicken instead of browning it.
- Flavor Adjustment: Feel free to adjust the amount of smoked paprika according to your taste. A bit more can deepen the flavor, while less maintains a milder profile.
- Dijon Mustard Substitution: If you’re out of Dijon, yellow mustard can be used, but expect a tangier flavor. For a more robust taste, try using whole grain mustard.
- Avoid Overcrowding: When searing the chicken, don’t overcrowd the skillet. This can lead to steaming rather than browning the chicken, which you want to avoid.
- Check Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s doneness. It ensures safety in consumption and perfect cooking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The creamy paprika chicken drumsticks are a culinary hug, warming you from the inside out. The delightful combination of creaminess and smokiness delivers a burst of flavor that pairs incredibly well with the simple rice. It fits perfectly into various diets thanks to its straightforward ingredients, allowing room for modifications without losing its essence.
Its simplicity in preparation makes this dish accessible for novice cooks. Whether you’re using it for a family dinner or serving guests, this recipe promises satisfaction without too much effort. Plus, it’s sure to impress!
How to Serve Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks
For presentation, serve the chicken drumsticks over a mound of fluffy white rice, drizzling the creamy sauce generously over the top. A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also a fresh taste that complements the dish beautifully.
Consider pairing this dish with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. As for drinks, a light white wine or a refreshing iced tea will add a lovely touch to your dining experience.
How to Store Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll last up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just remember to let them cool completely before sealing them up.
Tips to Make Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks
- Ideal Seasoning: Always taste your sauce before serving. You may want to add a bit more salt, pepper, or even a splash of lemon juice to brighten it up.
- Cooked Rice: Use day-old rice for fried rice-style dishes; it’s dryer and less sticky, which works beautifully with creamy sauces.
- Slow Cooking: For an easy variation, consider using a slow cooker. Simply follow the same seasoning steps and let it cook on low for 4-5 hours.
Variation
- Vegan Adaptation: Substitute the chicken with tempeh or seitan and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a tasty vegan version.
- Spicy Twist: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicier kick.
- Low-Carb Version: Serve the chicken over broccoli rice or cauliflower rice for a delicious low-carb alternative.
Nutrition Information
- Serving Size: 1 drumstick with sauce and rice
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
Chicken drumsticks are a good source of protein and healthy fats, making this dish filling while providing energy for your day.
Storage and Reheating
To reheat, you have several options:
- Microwave: Place chicken and sauce in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for around 15-20 minutes.
- Skillet: Heat a bit of oil in a skillet, then add the chicken and sauce, cooking over medium heat until warmed through, around 5-7 minutes.
Customization Ideas
Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have. For example, switch chicken broth for vegetable broth if you want to keep it vegetarian. You can also add different herbs or spices to the sauce to create unique flavor combinations.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Drying the Chicken: Skipping this step can lead to soggy skin.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Good quality cream and fresh spices can significantly elevate your dish.
- Rushing the Cooking Process: Allow enough time for the chicken to roast properly. Cooking too quickly can result in undercooked meat.
- Overcooking the Sauce: Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t reduce too much. You want a creamy consistency, not a thick paste.
Serving Occasions
This recipe works wonders for family dinners, cozy date nights, or meal prep for busy weekdays. It’s also a comforting dish to serve during colder months or festive gatherings, appealing to both adults and children alike.
Why Make This Recipe
Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks stand out from other similar dishes with their unique blend of smokiness and creaminess. While many recipes may just focus on flavor, this one combines ease of preparation with satisfying results, making it achievable for all cooking skill levels. Plus, the addition of heavy cream gives it a luxurious touch that feels indulgent without excessive work in the kitchen.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?
- Absolutely! Chicken thighs will also work well and provide a juicy texture.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
- Yes! Simply substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
- Yes, fresh herbs can add a wonderful flavor. Use three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
- You can make a lighter version with milk combined with a bit of cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
How long can I keep leftovers?
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Always cool completely before storing.
Disclaimer: Please note that nutrition information is approximate, and exact values can vary based on specific ingredients and methods used. Adjust for personal dietary needs accordingly.
Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks with Steamed Rice
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the chicken drumsticks dry and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- In a large ovenproof skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the drumsticks for about 5–6 minutes until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast chicken for about 20–25 minutes or until cooked through.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, add chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in dried thyme, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and flour. Cook for about a minute.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth and let simmer to thicken.
- Stir in heavy cream, tomato paste, and Dijon mustard. Simmer for another 5–6 minutes.
- Once the chicken is done, combine it with the sauce in the skillet and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Serve over a bed of steamed rice and garnish with fresh parsley.