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Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks with Steamed Rice

August 7, 2025 by Emma Delaney

Tender roasted chicken drumsticks coated in a rich, smoky paprika cream sauce and served over fluffy steamed rice—this dish is the ultimate in hearty, satisfying comfort food. Combining bold flavors with a smooth, creamy texture, it delivers a restaurant-quality experience right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks with Steamed Rice is a wholesome and flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknights or special dinners alike. The blend of smoked paprika, garlic, and Dijon mustard gives the sauce depth and character, while the creamy base brings it all together into a luscious finish. With simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, this recipe is as practical as it is delicious.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

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

Directions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat chicken drumsticks dry and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
In a large ovenproof skillet or pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the drumsticks on all sides until golden, about 5–6 minutes.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast the chicken for 20–25 minutes until fully cooked.
While the chicken cooks, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
Stir in thyme, red pepper flakes, and flour. Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
Slowly whisk in chicken broth and bring to a simmer until slightly thickened.
Stir in cream, tomato paste, and Dijon mustard. Simmer gently for 5–6 minutes, then add chopped parsley.
Once the chicken is done, return the skillet to the stovetop. Pour the sauce over the drumsticks and let simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Serve hot over a bed of cooked white rice, garnished with more parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Swap the protein: Use boneless chicken thighs or breasts for quicker cooking.
Go dairy-free: Use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
Add vegetables: Mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach can be sautéed and added to the sauce.
Spice it up: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne for extra heat.
Serve differently: Try it with mashed potatoes or buttered noodles instead of rice.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs or breasts instead of drumsticks?

Yes, both boneless thighs and breasts work well. Adjust cooking time as needed to avoid overcooking.

What can I use if I don’t have smoked paprika?

You can substitute with regular paprika, though you’ll lose the smoky depth. A small pinch of chipotle powder can be used for added smokiness.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead and store separately. Reheat and combine just before serving.

Is this dish spicy?

The crushed red pepper flakes add mild heat. Omit them for a completely mild version or increase for more spice.

How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I make the sauce thicker?

Yes, simmer it a bit longer or add a little more flour during the roux-making step for a thicker consistency.

What type of cream is best?

Heavy cream is recommended for its richness, but you can use half-and-half for a lighter version.

What kind of rice pairs best?

Steamed white rice works well, but jasmine or basmati rice also complement the flavors nicely.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written. To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour or cornstarch in the sauce.

Conclusion

Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks with Steamed Rice is a satisfying, flavorful meal that’s both comforting and elevated. With tender roasted chicken and a deeply flavorful sauce, it’s perfect for family dinners, date nights, or meal prep. Its simplicity and versatility make it a dish you’ll return to again and again.