Smoky Grilled Paprika Chicken

The aroma of sizzling chicken on the grill, infused with smoky paprika, is enough to transport anyone to a sunny backyard gathering. Smoky Grilled Paprika Chicken is a deliciously easy dish that takes about 30 minutes to prepare and requires marinating time for optimal flavor. The blend of Greek yogurt and spices ensures the chicken is tender and packed with a unique smoky taste.

This recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and weekend barbecues, appealing to fans of bold flavors. You can easily make the marinade ahead of time and store it for a day in the refrigerator, helping you streamline meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The chicken turns out incredibly juicy thanks to the yogurt marinade.
• Smoked paprika adds depth and a unique flavor profile that delights the palate.
• It’s easy to prepare and cook, making it suitable for even beginner cooks.
• Versatile enough to pair with various sides, suitable for any occasion.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish.

For the Marinade

• ½ cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp Sriracha
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• ½ large lemon, juiced
• ¾ tsp salt, or to taste
• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

For the Chicken

• 3 lbs assorted skinless chicken pieces (boneless or bone-in, I used boneless, skinless breasts and thighs)

Use plain yogurt for a similar marinade flavor.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Greek yogurt can be swapped for regular yogurt.
• Olive oil may be replaced with avocado oil.
• Sriracha can be substituted with any hot sauce.
• Chicken pieces can vary based on preference.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps for a flavorful dish.

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, smoked paprika, olive oil, Sriracha, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Whisk until smooth and thoroughly mixed.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 12 hours for maximum flavor.

Preheat the Grill

Prepare your grill by preheating it to medium-high heat. Ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.

Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and allow excess marinade to drip off. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Yes, for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes or until warm.

Tips for Best Results

• Allow the chicken to marinate for the full time for an unbeatable flavor.
• Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness accurately.
• Let the grilled chicken rest to retain moisture before slicing.
• Consider using a mix of chicken cuts for diverse texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh garden salad for a light meal.
• Serve alongside grilled vegetables for a colorful plate.
• Complement with a side of quinoa or rice to soak up the flavors.