This easy grilled paprika chicken is full of flavor and super simple to make! Just marinate the chicken with paprika, garlic, and a splash of lemon for a tasty meal.
I love how quickly this dish cooks on the grill. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a weekend barbecue with friends. And the smell? Just heavenly!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to grill and cook quickly. For a different flavor, you can use chicken thighs, which are juicier and more forgiving to cook.
Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a beautiful depth of flavor, but you can use sweet paprika if you prefer a milder taste. If you want some heat, my personal favorite is a mix of sweet and hot paprika.
Olive Oil: I love using extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor, but feel free to substitute it with any neutral oil like canola or avocado oil if that’s what you have on hand.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors, but bottled lemon juice works fine too. If you’re out of lemon, vinegar can be a suitable substitute.
Herbs: Garnishing with fresh parsley or cilantro adds a nice touch! If you’re not a fan, consider using fresh basil or simply leave it out entirely.
How Can You Ensure Juicy Grilled Chicken?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but there are some key tips to keep it juicy. First, marinate your chicken long enough to soak in those flavors—30 minutes is good, but longer is even better!
- Don’t skip the resting step after grilling. Letting the chicken rest for 5 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. 165°F (75°C) is the magic number! This prevents overcooking.
- Make sure your grill is hot enough before putting the chicken on. This gives those nice grill marks and helps seal in moisture.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly grilled paprika chicken every time!
Easy Grilled Paprika Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (for a bit of heat)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and marinate the chicken. Additionally, you’ll need about 15 minutes for grilling. In total, plan for around 25-30 minutes, including marinating time for maximum flavor!
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, lemon juice, and cayenne pepper if you’re feeling spicy! Stir well until everything is nicely combined—this will be your flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, then pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you can, aim for 1-2 hours. That extra time lets the chicken soak up all that delicious flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will help give the chicken those perfect grill marks and keep it nice and juicy!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Once the grill is hot, take the chicken breasts out of the marinade and let the excess drip off—discard any leftover marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on it! You want the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety and juiciness.
5. Rest and Serve:
After grilling, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices inside to settle, making every bite juicy and flavorful. Once rested, you can slice the chicken and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your beautiful grilled paprika chicken with your favorite sides—think fresh salad, roasted veggies, or even some rice. Enjoy this tasty homemade meal with family and friends!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Paprika Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option and can be even more flavorful and tender. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few minutes longer to reach the proper temperature.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, you can use any neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil. Avocado oil is also a great choice for grilling because it has a high smoke point and a mild flavor.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours. If you marinate it longer than that, the texture may change due to the acidity in the lemon juice. For best results, stick to the recommended time!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, but be careful not to overcook it to keep it juicy!
