There’s something incredibly satisfying about the aroma of grilled chicken wafting through the air, especially when it’s infused with the warm, smoky notes of paprika. As someone who loves both cooking and experimenting with bold flavors, I can confidently say that Paprika Grilled Chicken is one of those dishes that never disappoints. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer barbecue or just craving a hearty, spice-kissed meal, this recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken with a deep, rich flavor that keeps you coming back for more.
What makes this dish special is its simplicity. Paprika—whether sweet, smoked, or hot—brings a vibrant color and a subtle earthiness that pairs perfectly with garlic, lemon, and a touch of olive oil. The marinade works its magic in just 30 minutes, but if you have the time, letting it sit longer will only intensify the taste. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a regular in your grilling rotation!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Paprika: The star of this dish, paprika adds a deep, smoky sweetness that enhances the chicken’s natural flavors. If you want extra depth, smoked paprika works wonders, while hot paprika brings a spicy kick.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the marinade with a pungent, aromatic quality that balances the smokiness of the paprika.
Olive oil: A good-quality olive oil helps bind the spices together, keeps the chicken moist, and ensures even cooking on the grill.
Lemon juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens the marinade, adding a subtle tang that cuts through the richness of the chicken.
Salt & black pepper: Essential for seasoning, they enhance all the other flavors and bring the dish together.
Chicken thighs or breasts: Thighs stay juicier on the grill, but breasts work well too—just be careful not to overcook them.
Ingredients List
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 tbsp paprika (smoked or sweet)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
How to Make Paprika Grilled Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, combine the paprika, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until it forms a smooth, fragrant paste.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Place the chicken in a shallow dish or zip-top bag and pour the marinade over it. Massage the mixture into the chicken, ensuring every piece is well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill to medium-high (about 375°F-400°F). If using charcoal, wait until the coals are white-hot.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side (for thighs) or 5-6 minutes per side (for breasts), until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Avoid flipping too often to get a nice char.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices locked in. Serve with a fresh salad, grilled veggies, or warm flatbreads.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- For extra smokiness, add a pinch of cumin to the marinade.
- If grilling isn’t an option, a grill pan or oven broiler works too.
- Don’t skip the resting time—it makes the chicken juicier.
- For crispier skin, pat the chicken dry before marinating.
- If using hot paprika, adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
FAQs
Can I use chicken with skin on?
Yes! Just adjust cooking time slightly to ensure the skin crisps up.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
Up to 24 hours for maximum flavor, but 30 minutes is the minimum.
Can I bake this instead of grilling?
Absolutely! Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Grilled vegetables, couscous, garlic butter rice, or a fresh Greek salad are great choices.
Is smoked paprika necessary?
No, but it adds a deeper flavor. Sweet paprika works fine if that’s what you have.
This Paprika Grilled Chicken is a foolproof way to bring bold, smoky flavors to your table with minimal effort. Give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!