What does paprika taste like on chicken?

Paprika can be described as being a slightly milder version of a chili pepper. It is smoky and can contain a hint of sweetness, depending on the type of paprika used.

Do you put paprika on chicken while it’s cooking?

For this paprika chicken thighs recipe, we season the chicken with paprika and other spices before cooking to allow plenty of time for the flavor to sink into the meat.

Depending on the type of paprika used and your taste preferences, paprika can sometimes be a bit spicy. For a less spicy option, use sweet paprika.

Is paprika just crushed red bell peppers?

Not always! Paprika is a spice made from dried, ground red peppers from the capsicum annuum species which contains bell peppers, capsaicin, sweet pepper, and even jalapeños.

Is paprika just chili powder?

No, the two are similar but not quite the same. The primary difference is that paprika is made with a single type of chili while chili powder often contains a variety of chiles along with other ingredients and spices such as cumin and garlic powder.

Can I use chicken breasts instead?

We haven’t tested it, but it should work! Just be sure to adjust the amount of sauce used as the breasts will likely be larger and require more. You’ll also probably need to adjust the cooking time as breasts tend to cook a little more quickly!

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Sure! Just keep a close eye on it, and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Easy Paprika Chicken Thighs

Description

Prepare this easy paprika chicken thighs recipe with less than 10 ingredients and 40 minutes in the air fryer or oven for a healthy, high-protein meal you’ll love!

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 pounds boneless chicken thighs (skinless)
1–2 Tablespoons light olive oil

Seasoning

1 Tablespoon smoked paprika or sweet hot paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional: 2 teaspoons honey or raw sugar
Garnish: sliced lemons & fresh chopped parsley

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400F (air fryer directions in notes). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper and set aside.
Place chicken thighs in a large mixing bowl or ziplock bag. Drizzle oil over the chicken and toss to evenly coat the thighs. Set aside.
In a small bowl, whisk together the seasoning. Sprinkle the seasoning on top of the chicken, then rub the seasoning generously over the chicken.
If possible, let marinade for 15 minutes.
Place the coated thighs on the prepared pan. Bake for 18 to 23 minutes (turning/flipping over after 10 minutes) or until the internal temperature is 165-170F.
Serve immediately and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Notes

Alternative Method – AIR FRYER OPTION – Preheat the air fryer to 400F. Once preheated, spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray and place coated thighs in the basket. Bake for 7 to 10 minutes (turning/flipping over after 4 minutes) or until the internal temperature is 165-170F.

Storage Tips – The baked chicken thighs, once cooled, can be stored in the freezer in an airtight storage bag for up to 4 months.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Rest Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18 to 25 minutes
Category: dinner
Method: oven
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
Calories: 197
Sugar: 0.2 g
Sodium: 316.9 mg
Fat: 8.6 g
Saturated Fat: 1.9 g
Carbohydrates: 1.7 g
Fiber: 0.7 g
Protein: 27.1 g
Cholesterol: 127.8 mg