This easy grilled paprika chicken is bursting with flavor! With a blend of paprika and juicy chicken, it’s perfect for a sunny day outdoors or a cozy dinner at home.
I love how simple it is to make! Just mix the spices, coat the chicken, and grill it to perfection. Trust me, your taste buds will dance with joy! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe as they cook quickly on the grill. You could also use thighs for more flavor; they stay juicy and tender.
Smoked Paprika: This spice gives the chicken a smoky flavor. If you can’t find smoked paprika, regular paprika works too, but you might miss that distinctive smoky taste.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is perfect for marinating chicken, but you can substitute it with avocado oil or canola oil if needed. They all do a good job at keeping the chicken moist.
Spices: Garlic and onion powder are awesome for flavor! If you prefer fresh, you can use minced garlic and chopped onion instead; just adjust the amounts to taste.
How Do You Ensure Juicy Grilled Chicken?
Cooking chicken on the grill requires careful attention to get that juicy result. First, make sure to preheat your grill well—it creates a nice sear and helps keep the juices inside.
- Pat the chicken dry before applying the marinade. This helps the spices stick better.
- Cook on medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side, flipping only once. This way, you’ll get nice grill marks and, most importantly, avoid dryness.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This lets the juices redistribute back into the meat, making it extra succulent.
Easy Grilled Paprika Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Fresh lemon wedges (for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled paprika chicken will take you about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll also need around 15 minutes for grilling, making the total time approximately 25 minutes. Once you’ve prepped your chicken and grilled it, simply let it rest before serving—so easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make 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 want some kick). Stir it well until everything is combined to make a flavorful marinade.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade stick better! Use your hands or a brush to evenly coat each chicken breast with the marinade, ensuring every part is covered for maximum flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Turn on your grill and set it to medium-high heat—aim for around 400°F (200°C). To keep your chicken from sticking, lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in oil or a grill spray.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Once your grill is hot, place the marinated chicken breasts on it. Grill them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check! They should be golden brown and slightly charred.
5. Let It Rest:
After grilling, move the chicken off the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time is crucial—it allows the juices to settle back into the meat, making each bite juicy and tender.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the chicken if you like, serve it with fresh lemon wedges on the side for a little zing, and sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a nice touch. Enjoy your delicious grilled paprika chicken! 🥳
FAQ About Easy Grilled Paprika Chicken
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs can be a great substitute as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a few more minutes to cook through.
What Can I Substitute for Smoked Paprika?
If you don’t have smoked paprika on hand, you can use regular paprika for a milder flavor. Alternatively, a pinch of cayenne or chili powder can add some smokiness, but keep in mind it may change the overall taste slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Adding a splash of water or broth while reheating can help keep the chicken from drying out.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is a fantastic idea! This will enhance the flavor even more. Just make sure to cover the chicken and refrigerate it. If marinating longer, you may want to reduce the salt content a bit to avoid it becoming too salty.
