Baked Chicken Thighs With Paprika

Name: Baked Chicken Thighs With Paprika
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on; 2 tablespoons paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Family Comfort Plates

I absolutely love making baked chicken thighs with paprika! The aroma that fills the kitchen while they cook is incredibly inviting, and the combination of spices creates a wonderfully rich flavor. These thighs are so easy to prepare, yet they're a hit at any dinner table. Whether I'm serving them for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, they never disappoint. The crispy skin paired with the tender meat keeps everyone coming back for seconds, making this dish a staple in my home.

Created by

Marianne Hughes

Last updated on 2026-02-08T03:31:35.634Z

When I first tried baked chicken thighs with paprika, I was looking for a dish that was both comforting and packed with flavor. The secret turned out to be marinating the chicken in a blend of spices ahead of time. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps keep the meat juicy as it cooks.

Over time, I’ve experimented with different sides, and I’ve found that serving these thighs with roasted vegetables complements them perfectly. Always remember to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to ensure every bite is tender and succulent.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy, tender chicken with a crispy skin
Flavor explosion from the sweet and smoky paprika
Simple preparation for a delicious weeknight dinner

Understanding Paprika's Role

Paprika is the star ingredient in this recipe, not only adding vibrant color but also a depth of flavor that elevates the chicken. The sweet and smoky notes of paprika pair beautifully with the rich, juicy chicken thighs. When selecting your paprika, consider trying a mix of sweet smoked paprika and regular sweet paprika to add complexity. The balance of flavors will enhance the overall taste of the dish significantly, making it absolutely irresistible.

In addition to paprika, the garlic and onion powders play pivotal roles in rounding out the flavor profile. They provide an aromatic base that complements the smokiness while adding a savory depth. Opt for fresh garlic if you prefer, but the powders are convenient and deliver consistent results that work wonderfully when combined with the olive oil, which helps in distributing flavors evenly over the chicken.

Techniques for Perfectly Crispy Skin

Achieving that perfect crispy skin on your chicken thighs involves a couple of key techniques. First, ensuring the chicken is patted dry before marinading is essential, as moisture can prevent the skin from becoming crispy during baking. Additionally, roasting the chicken at a high temperature like 425°F (220°C) creates a Maillard reaction that caramelizes the skin, giving it that appealing golden-brown appearance while maintaining a tender interior.

It's also beneficial to let the chicken rest for about five minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring optimal juiciness with every bite. To enhance the crispiness even further, consider placing the baking sheet on the top rack of the oven, which increases exposure to heat during cooking.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
2 tablespoons paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Make sure to choose fresh chicken thighs for the best flavor.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, olive oil, and lemon juice. Rub this mixture all over the chicken thighs and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the Chicken

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.

Serve

Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious baked chicken thighs!

These chicken thighs pair well with rice or a fresh salad.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover baked chicken thighs, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes them an excellent choice for meal prep. Alternatively, you can freeze them, and they will last for up to three months. When freezing, it's best to wrap them tightly in foil and then place them in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.

To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. For an even crispier skin, consider broiling them for the last 2-3 minutes of reheating, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

Serving Suggestions

Baked chicken thighs with paprika pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them alongside roasted vegetables, such as carrots and potatoes, which can be cooked on the same baking sheet for an easy one-pan meal. A refreshing salad with a zesty dressing can also complement the richness of the chicken, adding a nice contrast to the meal.

For a flavorful twist, you could serve these thighs over a bed of rice or couscous, allowing the juices to soak into the grains for an extra burst of flavor. Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can also brighten the dish and enhance the overall taste profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken breasts may dry out more easily, so adjust baking time accordingly.

→ What can I serve with baked chicken thighs?

They pair well with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad.

→ Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Absolutely! Marinating overnight will deepen the flavors even more.

→ Is it necessary to use bone-in chicken?

Bone-in chicken thighs offer more flavor and tend to stay juicier during cooking.