Description
This Spicy Smoked Paprika Chicken recipe is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of smoked paprika, garlic, and a hint of cayenne pepper gives the chicken a delicious kick. Serve with a squeeze of lemon for a bright finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Spice Rub:
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Prepare the spice rub: In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then rub all over with olive oil. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken, pressing it in gently.
- Bake the chicken: Place the seasoned chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in an oven-safe skillet. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the edges are slightly crispy.
- Rest and serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the seasoned chicken for up to 2 hours before baking.
- This recipe also works well on the grill or in an air fryer.
- Adjust cayenne to taste for less heat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
