Paprika chicken thighs are bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces coated in a blend of spices, primarily paprika, garlic powder, and thyme. The combination of these ingredients infuses the chicken with a savory, smoky flavor. After roasting in the oven, the skin becomes crispy, while the meat stays moist and tender.
Cooking paprika chicken thighs takes about 35-45 minutes at 400°F (200°C). The cooking time can vary slightly depending on the size of the thighs and your oven. It’s important to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
This recipe for paprika chicken thighs is a go-to for anyone who enjoys bold, comforting flavors without the hassle. The chicken comes out with crispy skin and juicy meat, making it a winner every time. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving adds a delightful freshness that balances the spices. Pairing it with roasted vegetables or a simple salad complements the richness of the dish perfectly.
Why You’ll Love This Paprika Chicken Thighs
- Flavorful and Savory: Paprika chicken thighs bring bold, smoky flavors to your plate. The paprika seasoning perfectly complements the chicken, making each bite a tasty experience. This recipe is packed with rich, deep flavors that are sure to satisfy your taste buds.
- Simple and Quick to Make: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can have a delicious dinner ready in no time. It’s quick, simple, and hassle-free, making it a go-to for any night.
- Juicy and Tender Chicken: Paprika chicken thighs are known for being tender and juicy. Cooking the chicken thighs ensures they stay moist and flavorful. This method results in a perfectly cooked chicken that’s both delicious and satisfying.
Ingredient Notes for Paprika Chicken Thighs
- Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for this dish. They stay tender even when cooked for longer periods, making them a great choice for a rich, savory meal.
- Paprika: Paprika adds a smoky, earthy flavor to the chicken. It’s the key spice in this recipe, giving the dish its signature color and taste.
- Garlic Powder: Garlic powder brings depth and a mild garlic flavor without being overpowering. It complements the paprika and adds a savory note to the chicken.
- Onion Powder: Onion powder balances the flavors with a subtle sweetness. It enhances the overall taste without the sharpness of fresh onions.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Salt enhances all the flavors in the dish, while black pepper adds a slight kick. Together, they season the chicken perfectly.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil helps in cooking the chicken and adds a light, fruity flavor. It also keeps the thighs moist while they cook.
- Dried Thyme: Dried thyme offers a subtle, herbal aroma that pairs wonderfully with the chicken. It adds a savory touch to the dish.
- Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice adds a burst of acidity. It brightens up the rich flavors and balances the seasoning with a touch of tang.
Paprika Chicken Thighs Variation
There are many ways to change up paprika chicken thighs to suit your tastes. Here are a few variations you can try:
- Spicy Paprika Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix for a spicier version of the dish.
- Lemon Paprika Chicken: For a citrusy twist, add the zest of one lemon to the seasoning mix and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken just before serving.
- Honey Paprika Chicken: Brush the chicken thighs with a little honey before baking to add a sweet contrast to the smoky paprika.
- Herb Paprika Chicken: Mix in some fresh herbs like rosemary, oregano, or basil to the seasoning for an extra burst of flavor.
Feel free to get creative with these variations to match your personal preferences or the ingredients you have on hand.
How to Serve Paprika Chicken Thighs
Paprika chicken thighs are versatile and pair well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas for serving:
- With Roasted Vegetables: Serve the chicken with a side of roasted vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts. The flavors will complement each other beautifully.
- On a Salad: Shred the cooked chicken and serve it over a bed of greens with a light vinaigrette for a healthy meal.
- With Rice or Quinoa: Paprika chicken goes well with a simple side of rice or quinoa. You can even make a rice pilaf with onions, garlic, and broth to add extra flavor.
- With Bread: Serve the chicken alongside warm crusty bread to soak up any juices.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers, paprika chicken thighs store well for future meals. Here’s how to store them properly:
- In the Refrigerator: Allow the chicken to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- In the Freezer: If you want to keep the chicken longer, freeze it. Wrap the cooked chicken in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer bag. It will stay good for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken thighs in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes, or until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, let the chicken thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs About Paprika Chicken Thighs
How do you cook paprika chicken thighs?
You can cook paprika chicken thighs by baking, grilling, or pan-searing them. Simply season with paprika, salt, pepper, and your favorite spices, then cook until the chicken is fully done.
Can you use other spices with paprika chicken thighs?
Yes, you can add garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, or even chili powder to enhance the flavor. These spices blend well with paprika to create a deeper, more complex taste.
What side dishes go well with paprika chicken thighs?
Paprika chicken thighs pair well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Rice or couscous also make great sides for this flavorful dish.
Are paprika chicken thighs spicy?
Paprika chicken thighs are typically not very spicy, but they do have a mild heat. You can adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or cayenne pepper if you prefer extra heat.
Baked Paprika Chicken Thighs Recipe
Equipment
- Oven or Stovetop (depending on cooking method)
- Large mixing bowl for marinating the chicken
- Measuring spoons for spices
- Baking sheet (for oven method)
- Tongs for flipping the chicken thighs
- Meat thermometer (optional, but helpful to check for doneness)
- Cooking spoon or spatula for stirring spices or basting the chicken
- Paper towels to pat dry
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons paprika smoked paprika is recommended for an extra kick
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme optional, for an herby touch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice optional, for a little zest
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you’re using a stovetop, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken thighs, making sure to cover them evenly.
- Cook the Chicken:
- o Oven Method: Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil or melted butter over the chicken. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy.
- o Stovetop Method: Heat olive oil or butter in the skillet. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Flip the chicken and cook for another 8-10 minutes, or until fully cooked through.
- Rest the Chicken: After cooking, remove the chicken from the oven or skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes. This step helps keep the juices locked in.
- Serve: Serve your perfectly cooked Paprika Chicken Thighs with a side of your favorite vegetables, rice, or potatoes for a complete meal.
