Description
This cozy Paprika Chicken with Rice recipe combines tender chicken thighs seasoned with smoky paprika, sautéed onions and garlic, and perfectly cooked rice simmered in flavorful chicken broth. Ready in around 40 minutes, it’s a comforting one-pan meal that’s perfect for a satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasonings
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Rice and Liquids
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
Other
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Place a pan over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, heating until shimmering but not smoking.
- Season the chicken: Rub the chicken thighs on all sides with 2 tablespoons paprika, salt, and pepper to your taste, ensuring an even coating.
- Brown the chicken: Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the hot pan and brown each side until golden, approximately 3-4 minutes per side, to develop deep flavor.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan with the chicken, stirring and cooking until the onions become soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the rice: Stir in 1 cup of rice, cooking it with the aromatics for about 2 minutes, allowing it to absorb flavors and lightly toast.
- Add broth and boil: Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a rolling boil to start cooking the rice thoroughly.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and let everything simmer gently for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve: Check the rice for doneness. Once cooked, fluff the rice slightly, and serve the paprika chicken hot alongside the flavorful rice.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts but adjust cooking time to avoid dryness.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or fresh herbs like parsley before serving.
- Using long-grain rice will help keep grains separate; adjust water if using other rice types.
- Covering and simmering gently is key to tender rice and juicy chicken.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or peas for a more colorful dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: European
Keywords: Paprika chicken, chicken and rice, one pan meal, cozy dinner, easy chicken recipe, stovetop chicken
