Prepare to fall in love with a dish that’s both wonderfully comforting and surprisingly quick to prepare: this Creamy Paprika Chicken Curry Bowl with Rice & Golden Potatoes! It’s a harmonious blend of tender, succulent chicken bathed in a rich, velvety paprika-infused cream sauce, served alongside fluffy rice and crispy, golden potatoes. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm, soulful embrace that brings big flavors to your table with minimal fuss. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, it’s a dish that will quickly become a cherished favorite.

Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe is a true gem in my collection of go-to meals, especially when I crave something deeply flavorful yet straightforward to make. What I love most is the incredible depth that paprika brings to the chicken and sauce—whether you choose sweet or smoked, it provides a warm, earthy base that’s utterly irresistible. The cream (or yogurt) transforms it into a luxurious, luscious sauce that clings to every piece of chicken.

The combination of the creamy chicken curry with fluffy rice and the contrasting texture of crispy, roasted potatoes is a stroke of genius. It adds an extra layer of comfort and makes the meal feel complete and incredibly satisfying. Despite its rich taste, this dish comes together quickly, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet-quality meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients can yield truly extraordinary results.

---

Ingredients:

• Chicken breast, cubed (about 1 lb / 450g)
• Garlic, finely chopped (3-4 cloves)
• Onion, finely chopped (1 medium)
• Paprika (2-3 teaspoons, smoked or sweet, or a mix)
• Heavy cream or yogurt (1 cup heavy cream or 1.5 cups plain full-fat Greek yogurt)
• Olive oil or butter (2 tablespoons)
• Cooked basmati or jasmine rice (2 cups, for serving)
• Diced golden potatoes (2 medium, diced into 1/2-inch cubes)
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Salt, pepper, and chili flakes (optional), to taste

Swaps and Notes:

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for an even juicier curry.
• Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a wonderfully deep, smoky flavor, while sweet paprika provides a milder, sweeter note. Use what you prefer, or combine them!
• Cream vs. Yogurt: Heavy cream will give a richer, more decadent sauce. Plain full-fat Greek yogurt offers a tangier, slightly lighter sauce (ensure you stir it in off the heat to prevent curdling, then gently simmer).
• Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are perfect for their golden color and creamy texture when cooked. Russet potatoes can also be used, but might be a bit fluffier.
• Rice: Basmati or jasmine rice are aromatic choices, but any white rice or even brown rice would work as a base. For a different type of rice dish, you might enjoy my This Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole Is My Favorite One-Pan Dinner That’s Always a Hit.
• Spice Level: Adjust chili flakes to your desired level of heat. Omit if you prefer no spice.
• Herbs: Fresh cilantro would also be a fantastic garnish for this curry.

---

Instructions:

This flavorful curry bowl comes together in simple, efficient steps.

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if roasting, or prepare to sauté. Toss the diced golden potatoes with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
   • Roasting Method: Spread potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and tender.
   • Sauté Method: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and tender.
2. Sear the Chicken: While the potatoes cook, heat olive oil or butter (about 1 tablespoon) in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken breast and sear until browned on all sides. You don’t need to cook it through completely at this stage, just get a nice color. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet (add a touch more oil if needed), reduce heat to medium. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the finely chopped garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Build the Curry Sauce: Stir in the paprika with the cooked onion and garlic, cooking for 30 seconds to allow the spice to bloom. Pour in the heavy cream or yogurt. If using yogurt, remove the skillet from heat before stirring it in to prevent curdling, then return to very low heat. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly, until it slightly thickens. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using) to taste.
5. Combine & Simmer: Return the seared chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Stir to coat the chicken evenly. Let the curry simmer gently for 5-7 minutes (on low heat if using yogurt), or until the chicken is cooked through and tender, and the sauce has reached your desired consistency.
6. Assemble & Serve: Spoon the cooked basmati or jasmine rice into bowls as a base. Top generously with the creamy paprika chicken curry. Add a portion of the crispy, golden potatoes to each bowl. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot and savor this wonderfully comforting meal!

---

Tips:

• Add Bell Peppers for More Color: For extra color, sweetness, and nutrition, thinly slice some bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange) and add them to the skillet with the onion and garlic.
• Serve with Naan: Instead of rice, serve your creamy chicken curry with warm naan bread for variety. It’s perfect for scooping up all that delicious sauce!
• A Spoon of Tomato Paste Adds Depth: For an even richer, more complex sauce, stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste with the paprika and cook for a minute before adding the cream or yogurt. This adds a lovely umami depth.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing chicken or roasting potatoes, ensure they are in a single layer for proper browning and crisping. Work in batches if necessary.

---

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Creamy Paprika Chicken Curry Bowl is a complete meal in itself, offering protein, carbs, and vegetables.

• Fresh Side: A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette would provide a refreshing contrast to the rich curry.
• Cooling Element: A dollop of extra plain Greek yogurt or sour cream on top of the finished dish can add a cool, tangy touch.
• Other Comfort Food: If you’re a fan of comforting and flavorful meals, consider my This Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage Is My Favorite Quick Dinner Packed with Southern Flavor for another satisfying dish.
• Crispy Complement: You could serve these bowls alongside These Sheet Pan Quesadillas Are My Favorite Way to Feed a Crowd Fast for a fun, multi-texture meal.

---

Storage and Leftover Tips

This curry bowl makes for fantastic leftovers, as the flavors often deepen overnight.

• Storage: Store leftover chicken curry and potatoes separately from the rice in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Gently reheat the curry on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Reheat potatoes in a toaster oven or regular oven to regain crispness. Reheat rice in the microwave or stovetop.
• Best Texture: The potatoes are best crispiest when fresh, but are still delicious warmed up.

---

More Recipes You Will Love

If you loved the comforting flavors and easy preparation of this creamy chicken curry, you’ll definitely want to explore some of these other fantastic recipes:

• For another rich and hearty dish with a distinct flavor profile, check out my This Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo Is My Favorite Bowl of Southern Comfort.
• If you’re a fan of easy and satisfying one-pan meals, don’t miss This Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole Is My Favorite One-Pan Dinner That’s Always a Hit.
• And for another comforting poultry dish, my These Easy Turkey Wings Are My Favorite Comfort Food For Lazy Sundays are a must-try.

---

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Paprika Chicken Curry Bowl with Rice & Golden Potatoes is a true culinary delight, offering rich, comforting flavors and satisfying textures in a surprisingly short amount of time. It’s the perfect answer to a craving for something warm, hearty, and incredibly delicious, making it an instant classic in any home. Dive in and savor every comforting bite!

What’s your secret ingredient for adding depth to a curry? Share your tips in the comments below! And don’t forget to follow Chef Maniac for more delicious and easy recipes that bring joy to your kitchen.