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Creamy Paprika Chicken with Herbed Rice & Peppers
Indulging in a comforting meal is one of life’s simple pleasures, and this creamy paprika chicken paired with herbed rice and peppers is a perfect choice. It’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend dinner. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cooking time of 25 minutes, you can have this mouthwatering dish ready in no time!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This creamy paprika chicken strikes a perfect balance between heartiness and flavor. The tender chicken is enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce, enhanced by the smoky depth of paprika and zesty herbs. The herbed rice serves as an ideal companion, soaking up all the savory goodness from the chicken sauce. Plus, it’s highly customizable—you can easily throw in some extra veggies or adjust the spices to fit your preference. It’s a meal that is sure to impress anyone at your dining table!
Pro Tips for Making Creamy Paprika Chicken with Herbed Rice & Peppers
- Use Smoked Paprika: For a deeper, more robust flavor, replace regular paprika with smoked paprika.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to toss in mushrooms or spinach into the chicken sauce to boost texture and nutrition.
- Swap Cream for Sour Cream: For a tangier twist, use sour cream instead of heavy cream in the sauce.
- Adjust Herbs: Experiment with different dried herbs like oregano or basil for varied flavors.
- Rice Options: While white rice works wonderfully, consider using brown rice or quinoa for added health benefits.
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Sauce:
- 500 g chicken breast, cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 teaspoons sweet or smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 250 ml chicken broth
- 200 ml heavy cream or sour cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Rice:
- 1 cup white rice, steamed
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or 1 teaspoon dried herbs
- Salt, to taste
Directions
Follow these simple steps to create your creamy paprika chicken:
- Step 1: In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant.
- Step 2: Add the cubed chicken to the skillet. Cook until the chicken is golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Step 3: Stir in the sweet or smoked paprika, dried herbs, and sliced red bell pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the peppers are slightly tender.
- Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth and allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Step 5: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce thicken slightly for about 3-5 minutes.
- Step 6: While the sauce is thickening, prepare the herbed rice. In a separate pot, combine steamed rice with butter or olive oil, fresh herbs, and salt. Mix well to combine.
- Step 7: Serve the creamy paprika chicken alongside fluffy herbed rice. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will work well in this recipe; they will add more moisture and flavor to the dish.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with sour cream for a tangy flavor, or use Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then reheat when ready to serve. Just cook the rice fresh for serving.
What side dishes go well with creamy paprika chicken?
The creamy paprika chicken pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, crusty bread, or a fresh garden salad.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the creamy paprika chicken. Store it in an airtight container and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Conclusion
This creamy paprika chicken with herbed rice and peppers is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort and satisfaction to your dining table. By following this easy recipe packed with flavor, you are sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy cooking this delightful dish, and feel free to get creative with the ingredients based on your personal preferences!
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