In a large pot or Dutch oven set over medium heat, melt butter. Cook thighs, skin side down until browned, about 7-9 minutes (the chicken will not be fully cooked). Transfer to a plate and discard the skin.
Add the sausage, celery and onion and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Pour in the chicken broth. Add the chicken thighs along with the paprika, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and bay leaves. Turn the heat up to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and allow to simmer for 20 minutes.
Remove the thighs from the pot along with the bay leaves. Pour the rice into the simmering mixture, cover and cook for about 20 minutes or until the rice is tender.
While the rice is cooking, pull the chicken from the bone and shred.
After the rice is cooked and tender, return the chicken to the pot, stir to combine. Cover, remove from the heat and allow to sit for 5 minutes before serving.