Discover the warm and inviting flavors of Fire-Kissed Velvet Paprika Chicken with Spinach, Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Chili Yogurt Jasmine Rice. This delightful dish combines succulent chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy sauce that brings comfort with every bite. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but is also simple to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. The infusion of smoked paprika adds a unique depth, while the chili yogurt elevates the dish with a creamy heat that balances the richness of the chicken and sauce.
This recipe showcases how easily ingredients can come together to create a dish that feels gourmet yet approachable. The chicken thighs or breast are seasoned to perfection and braised in a luscious sauce made from heavy cream, miso, and fresh vegetables—truly a showstopper in terms of flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen. Pair this dish with fluffy jasmine rice and garnish it with crispy shallots and crushed macadamia nuts for an extra crunch! The Fire-Kissed Velvet Paprika Chicken is guaranteed to impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Fire-Kissed Velvet Paprika Chicken
- Rich in flavor: The combination of smoked and regular paprika, along with garlic, creates a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible.
- Quick and easy: This dish can be prepared in under an hour, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- Versatile ingredients: Customize your meals by swapping out proteins or adding different vegetables to suit your preferences.
- Comforting and satisfying: The creamy sauce paired with fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes makes for a deliciously hearty meal.
- Beautifully presented: Garnished with crispy shallots and macadamia nuts, this dish is sure to impress at any dinner table.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into this Fire-Kissed Velvet Paprika Chicken recipe, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Begin by ensuring your workspace is clean and organized; a tidy kitchen makes cooking more enjoyable and efficient.
For this dish, you will need a large skillet to sear your chicken and later create the sauce. A wooden spoon or spatula will be handy for stirring your ingredients. Measuring cups and spoons are essential for accurate ingredient portions, and a sharp knife will make slicing the chicken and vegetables effortless. Before cooking, it’s wise to measure out all your ingredients as it streamlines the process and ensures you don’t miss anything.
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs chicken thighs or breast, sliced
- Salt and cracked black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon white miso paste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cup roasted red pepper strips
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- Chili oil, to drizzle
- ¼ cup crispy fried shallots
- ¼ cup crushed macadamia nuts
- Micro herbs, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken with salt, cracked black pepper, smoked paprika, and regular paprika. This initial step enhances the flavor profile of the chicken, ensuring that each bite is aromatic and delicious.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the seasoned chicken, ensuring you place it in a single layer to achieve even cooking. Sear the chicken until it turns golden brown, smoky, and slightly charred, which should take about 5–7 minutes. Once done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic, allowing it to sauté until fragrant—this will take approximately 30 seconds. Next, whisk in the white miso paste, heavy cream, and chicken broth, stirring until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 5 minutes, thickening slightly.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the fresh spinach, sliced sun-dried tomatoes, and roasted red pepper strips. Cook until the spinach is wilted and the mixture appears silky and integrates seamlessly. This combination adds texture and a burst of nutrients to the dish.
Step 5: Return the Chicken
After the vegetables have softened, return the seared chicken to the skillet. Let it simmer gently for about 8–10 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the delicious flavors of the paprika cream sauce. Check that the chicken is cooked through and tender, ensuring it is coated beautifully in the sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Prepare your serving plates by placing a generous scoop of fluffy jasmine rice. Spoon the creamy chicken and vegetable mixture over the rice, creating a luscious mountain of flavor. Swirl some Greek yogurt on top for creaminess, followed by a drizzle of chili oil to add a kick. Finally, finish off with crispy fried shallots, crushed macadamia nuts, and a sprinkle of micro herbs for a stunning presentation.
Variations
- Protein: Substitute the chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even pork for a different protein source.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms, to enhance the dish’s texture and nutrition.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices—consider adding cumin or coriander for an aromatic twist.
Cooking Notes
- Always taste and adjust seasoning: Don’t forget to taste the sauce before serving; adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Use a meat thermometer: For perfect chicken, ensure that cooked chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Make it ahead: This recipe can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it a fantastic option for meal prep!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for added nutrition.
- Pair with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the creamy sauce.
Tips
- For extra creaminess, consider adding more heavy cream or a splash of sour cream.
- To add a smoky flavor, try using a grill pan for the chicken to get those beautiful char marks.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 600 per serving
- Protein: 40g
- Sodium: 800mg
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used; however, they may require less cooking time to avoid drying out.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter version, though the texture and flavor may vary.
Can this recipe be made in advance?
Absolutely! The Fire-Kissed Velvet Paprika Chicken can be made ahead, stored in the fridge, and reheated when ready to serve.
What can I serve with this dish?
Besides jasmine rice, it goes well with pasta, quinoa, or a simple salad for a light contrast.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Fire-Kissed Velvet Paprika Chicken with Spinach, Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Chili Yogurt Jasmine Rice is not just a dish, but a culinary experience that captures the essence of comfort food. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners yet elegant enough for hosting guests. We hope you enjoyed this recipe and feel inspired to try your hand at making it. Don’t forget to play around with variations, and share your experiences in the comments below! You can also connect with us on social media, where we’d love to see photos of your creations. Happy cooking!
Print
Fire-Kissed Velvet Paprika Chicken with Spinach, Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Chili Yogurt Jasmine Rice
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Discover the warm and inviting flavors of Fire-Kissed Velvet Paprika Chicken with Spinach, Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Chili Yogurt Jasmine Rice. This delightful dish combines succulent chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy sauce that brings comfort with every bite.
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs chicken thighs or breast, sliced
- Salt and cracked black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon white miso paste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cup roasted red pepper strips
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- Chili oil, to drizzle
- ¼ cup crispy fried shallots
- ¼ cup crushed macadamia nuts
- Micro herbs, for garnish
Instructions
- Start by seasoning the chicken with salt, cracked black pepper, smoked paprika, and regular paprika. This initial step enhances the flavor profile of the chicken, ensuring that each bite is aromatic and delicious.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the seasoned chicken, ensuring you place it in a single layer to achieve even cooking. Sear the chicken until it turns golden brown, smoky, and slightly charred, which should take about 5–7 minutes. Once done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic, allowing it to sauté until fragrant—this will take approximately 30 seconds. Next, whisk in the white miso paste, heavy cream, and chicken broth, stirring until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 5 minutes, thickening slightly.
- Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the fresh spinach, sliced sun-dried tomatoes, and roasted red pepper strips. Cook until the spinach is wilted and the mixture appears silky and integrates seamlessly. This combination adds texture and a burst of nutrients to the dish.
- After the vegetables have softened, return the seared chicken to the skillet. Let it simmer gently for about 8–10 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the delicious flavors of the paprika cream sauce. Check that the chicken is cooked through and tender, ensuring it is coated beautifully in the sauce.
- Prepare your serving plates by placing a generous scoop of fluffy jasmine rice. Spoon the creamy chicken and vegetable mixture over the rice, creating a luscious mountain of flavor. Swirl some Greek yogurt on top for creaminess, followed by a drizzle of chili oil to add a kick. Finally, finish off with crispy fried shallots, crushed macadamia nuts, and a sprinkle of micro herbs for a stunning presentation.
Notes
Taste the sauce before serving; adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 40 g