This Easy Grilled Paprika Chicken is a tasty treat that’s simple to make! With juicy chicken coated in smoky paprika, it’s perfect for any cookout. Yum!
You won’t believe how quickly it comes together! Just sprinkle the spices, grill, and you’re ready to eat. I love serving it with fresh veggies for a colorful plate! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless is what I recommend for easy grilling. If you prefer, you can use thighs instead; they are moist and flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as they may take a bit longer.
Smoked Paprika: This is key for that wonderful smoky flavor. If you can’t find it, regular paprika will work, though it won’t have that smokiness. A pinch of cayenne can add a little heat, too!
Olive Oil: This helps the marinade stick and keeps the chicken moist. You can swap it out for avocado oil or any other neutral oil if you prefer. Both work well on the grill!
Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon brightens up the flavors. If you don’t have lemon, vinegar like apple cider or even white wine can add a nice acidity.
How Can You Ensure Your Chicken Isn’t Dry?
To keep your grilled chicken juicy, there are a few steps to follow. First, start with nice, even-sized chicken breasts to ensure they cook uniformly. Here’s what to do:
- Pat the chicken dry before marinating—this helps the marinade stick better.
- Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, in the fridge for deeper flavor.
- Don’t rush the grilling! Cooking on medium-high heat helps develop a lovely crust while keeping the inside tender.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Once it hits 165°F (74°C), take it off the grill and let it rest. Resting helps redistribute the juices back into the meat.
Following these tips will give you perfectly grilled chicken that’s full of flavor and moisture every time! Enjoy!
Easy Grilled Paprika Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- Juice of half a lemon (optional, for marinating)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to grill, making the total time around 25-30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or an easy weekend BBQ!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Stir well to create a tasty marinade that will coat the chicken.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and pat them dry using paper towels. This helps the marinade stick better to the chicken. Then, generously rub the paprika marinade over both sides of each chicken breast. If you like, you can drizzle some lemon juice over the chicken to add a zesty flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Set your grill to medium-high heat, around 375-450°F (190-230°C). This is the perfect temperature for grilling chicken and developing a nice sear.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Carefully place the chicken breasts on the grill. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’ll want to check the chicken’s internal temperature; it’s done when it hits 165°F (74°C) and is no longer pink in the center.
5. Let It Rest:
Once the chicken is perfectly grilled, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This is an important step—it helps keep the juices inside the chicken, making each bite super juicy.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the grilled chicken and serve it with your choice of side dishes. Grilled vegetables, fluffy rice, or a fresh salad all make great accompaniments. Enjoy your flavorful and juicy Easy Grilled Paprika Chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! If using bone-in chicken pieces, adjust the grilling time to about 10-12 minutes per side, depending on the size. Ensure the internal temperature still reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?
For best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator. If you’re short on time, even a quick 15-minute marinade will add some flavor!
Can I Cook This Chicken in the Oven Instead?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the marinated chicken breasts for 20-25 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can broil them for the last 2-3 minutes for a nice golden finish!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
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 on the stovetop. Adding a splash of chicken broth can help keep it moist during reheating.
