Baked Chicken Thighs With Paprika

Name: Baked Chicken Thighs With Paprika
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, skin-on; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Family Comfort Plates

I absolutely love preparing Baked Chicken Thighs With Paprika because it brings a burst of flavor and a little bit of warmth to the dinner table. The combination of smoky paprika and tender, juicy chicken thighs creates a dish that's not only satisfying but incredibly easy to make. I often find myself returning to this recipe, especially on busy weeknights or when hosting friends. It’s the kind of meal that feels special yet doesn’t take a lot of effort, and the aromas that fill the kitchen are simply irresistible!

Created by

Marianne Hughes

Last updated on 2026-02-08T03:24:37.798Z

I remember the first time I made Baked Chicken Thighs With Paprika; it was a rainy evening, and I needed comfort food. I was amazed at how a few simple spices transformed the humble chicken thighs into something magical. The trick is to let the paprika, garlic, and olive oil marinate together, which not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the chicken moist while baking. I learned to pat the skin dry before seasoning, ensuring that it crisps up beautifully.

Another valuable lesson from my culinary journey was using parchment paper on the baking tray—it makes for easy cleanup while allowing the thighs to cook evenly. Each bite is a blend of smoky, savory goodness that has my family coming back for seconds. This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal, making it versatile for any occasion.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The perfectly crispy skin that contrasts with juicy meat
A smoky, rich flavor profile from simple spices
Quick prep time with minimal cleanup required

Getting the Most Out of Your Paprika

Paprika is the star of this dish, but not all paprikas are created equal. Smoked paprika lends a unique depth of flavor with its sweet, smoky notes, perfect for complementing the rich taste of chicken thighs. If unavailable, you can substitute with a combination of regular sweet paprika and a hint of chili powder for smokiness. However, to truly capture the essence of this recipe, I recommend sticking with smoked paprika.

Consider the freshness of your spices as well. Spices lose their potency over time, so it’s best to use freshly opened paprika for vibrant flavor. If you have whole spices, grinding them just before use can also enhance your dish dramatically. When combined with olive oil and seasonings, paprika creates a beautiful marinade that beautifully penetrates the meat, promoting both flavor and tenderness.

Baking Technique Tips

For the crispiest skin, it's essential to pat the chicken thighs dry before seasoning. Removing excess moisture allows the skin to render fat properly, achieving that coveted crunch. Additionally, using a wire rack in your baking dish can further improve crispiness by allowing air circulation around the chicken, which helps the skin become golden and crispy without steaming.

Keep an eye on the internal temperature of the chicken thighs, aiming for a temperature of 165°F (74°C). A digital meat thermometer can ensure perfect doneness without drying out your chicken. If your skin isn’t as crispy as you'd like after the recommended baking time, a quick broil for a few minutes at the end can help achieve that golden, crispy effect.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 chicken thighs, skin-on
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking dish lined with parchment paper.

Prepare Chicken

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat well.

Arrange and Bake

Place the seasoned chicken thighs on the prepared baking dish, skin-side up. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes or until the skin is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.

Rest and Serve

Once done, remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your flavorful baked chicken thighs!

Serve hot and enjoy with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken thighs overnight in the spice mixture.

Serving Suggestions

These Baked Chicken Thighs With Paprika pair beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp salad, balancing the richness of the dish. You can also serve them over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up all the delicious juices. For a fun twist, try shredding the chicken and mixing it into tacos or on a sandwich with avocado and fresh salsa.

If you're entertaining, consider serving the chicken with a side of homemade dipping sauces, like garlic aioli or spicy mustard. This adds a playful element to the meal, allowing guests to customize each bite. Even a simple garlic and herb buttermilk ranch can take the experience to another level.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These chicken thighs can be marinated the night before to enhance their flavor profile. Simply combine the olive oil, spices, and chicken in a resealable bag and let it sit in the fridge overnight. Removing the chicken from the fridge about 30 minutes prior to cooking helps to bring it closer to room temperature, ensuring even cooking in the oven.

For leftovers, once the chicken has cooled, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to extend the life of your chicken, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to use freezer-safe containers, and reheat gently in the oven or microwavable covers to retain moisture when ready to serve again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless thighs will cook faster, so adjust your cooking time to about 30-35 minutes.

→ What can I serve with baked chicken thighs?

This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple green salad.

→ Can I use this recipe for chicken breasts?

Yes, but chicken breasts may require a shorter cooking time, about 25-30 minutes.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.