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Smoked Paprika Lemon Chicken Recipe

Smoked Paprika Lemon Chicken Recipe
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★★★★★

4.8 from 27 reviews

This Smoked Paprika Lemon Chicken recipe offers a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken marinated in a zesty lemon and smoky paprika blend. Perfectly grilled or baked, it’s a delicious and healthy option for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice and zest of 2 lemons
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1½ teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined to create a flavorful marinade.
  2. Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken thighs or breasts to the marinade and toss thoroughly to ensure all pieces are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes; marinating for up to 12 hours intensifies the flavor.
  3. Preheat cooking surface: Preheat your grill, grill pan, or oven to 400°F (200°C), preparing it for optimal cooking performance.
  4. Cook the chicken: If grilling, place the chicken on the hot grill and cook for 5–7 minutes per side until fully cooked through and slightly charred. If baking, lay the chicken on a lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Rest and garnish: Remove the chicken from heat and allow it to rest for 5 minutes to retain its juices. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
  6. Serve: Enjoy the smoked paprika lemon chicken alongside sides such as roasted vegetables, rice, lemon-herb roasted potatoes, couscous, or a fresh salad. Optionally, add a drizzle of extra lemon juice for added brightness.

Notes

  • Marinate the chicken longer for deeper flavor, but do not exceed 12 hours to prevent texture deterioration.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Chicken thighs offer more moisture and tenderness, while breasts provide a leaner option.
  • Adjust the amount of smoked paprika according to your preference for smokiness and spice level.
  • Pairs well with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for garnish.
  • Oven baking is a great alternative if you don’t have access to a grill.

Nutrition

Keywords: Smoked paprika chicken, lemon chicken, grilled chicken, Mediterranean chicken, healthy chicken recipe, easy chicken dinner

Find it online: https://maicook.com/smoked-paprika-lemon-chicken-recipe/