Easy Grilled Paprika Chicken Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken: I love using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but thighs work just as well. Thighs add a bit more juiciness! If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, turkey breast can also be a good substitute.

Paprika: Smoked paprika gives that wonderful deep flavor and color. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works too, although it won’t have the smokiness. You can also try a mix of paprika and a touch of cumin for a twist.

Olive Oil: This helps keep the chicken moist and helps the spices stick. You could use avocado oil or melted butter instead if you prefer. Both provide great flavor and cooking properties.

Spices: Feel free to adjust spice amounts according to your taste, or add other spices like oregano or thyme. If you’re sensitive to heat, skip the cayenne pepper or use a smaller amount.

How Can I Make the Chicken More Flavorful?

Marinating your chicken is the key to making it juicy and bursting with flavor. Letting it sit with the spice mix for at least 20 minutes allows the flavors to soak in, but longer is better! Here are some tips:

• For a quick marinade, 20 minutes at room temperature is fine, but if you have time, let it marinate in the fridge for up to 2 hours.
• Make sure to pat your chicken dry before applying the rub. It helps the seasoning stick better!
• Let the grilled chicken rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking. This helps keep it juicy when you slice into it.

How to Make Easy Grilled Paprika Chicken

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

For the Marinade:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Juice of half a lemon (optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus a marinating time of at least 20 minutes (or up to 2 hours). Grill the chicken for about 15 minutes, and you’re ready to enjoy a tasty meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:

In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if you like a little heat). This mixture is going to give your chicken a delicious flavor!

2. Marinate the Chicken:

Using paper towels, pat the chicken pieces dry. This helps the marinade stick better. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken breasts, making sure they are well coated. If you want a bright flavor, drizzle some lemon juice over the top. Let this marinate for at least 20 minutes, or put it in the fridge for up to 2 hours for even more flavor.

3. Preheat the Grill:

While your chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and gets those lovely grill marks!

4. Grill the Chicken:

Place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Make sure to turn them only once for the best results.

5. Rest and Serve:

Once your chicken is cooked perfectly, take it off the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle so that every bite is juicy and delicious. Now you can slice it and serve with your favorite sides, whether that’s grilled veggies, fluffy rice, or a fresh salad.

Enjoy your Easy Grilled Paprika Chicken!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Chicken with Skin for This Recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken with skin! Just remember to adjust your cooking time slightly, as it may take a few extra minutes to cook through. The skin will also add extra flavor, but keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?

Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight is a great way to deepen the flavor. Just be sure to keep it covered in the fridge, and if you’re using cayenne pepper, you may want to reduce the amount to avoid it becoming too spicy.

How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?

Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat to retain its moisture.

What Are Some Good Sides to Serve with This Chicken?

This chicken goes wonderfully with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or seasoned rice. You could also pair it with quinoa or a light pasta dish for a complete meal!