Garlic and Paprika Chicken

Garlic and paprika chicken is the perfect blend of juicy, crispy, and aromatic—making it a standout weeknight dinner or a showstopper for weekend gatherings. This mouthwatering dish highlights the irresistible combination of garlic and smoked paprika, infusing each chicken drumstick with deep, savory flavor. With just 5 minutes of prep time and a hands-off bake in the oven, it’s as easy as it is delicious. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to please.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic and Paprika Chicken

This garlic and paprika chicken is incredibly easy to make and bursts with hearty, bold flavors. The olive oil and garlic base blends seamlessly with smoked paprika, forming a rich, caramelized exterior that seals in moisture. It’s baked in the oven for no-fuss preparation and delivers satisfying results every time.

Ingredients

• 12 chicken drumsticks
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 8 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)

Step-by-Step: How to Make Garlic and Paprika Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add garlic, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, parsley, and oregano. Cook for 1 minute, taking care not to brown the garlic.
3. Rinse and pat the chicken drumsticks completely dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Pour the aromatic olive oil mixture over the drumsticks, ensuring every piece is well coated.
5. Place the coated drumsticks in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 45 minutes or until an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached and the skin turns crispy and golden.
7. Serve immediately with your choice of sides or a light salad.

Helpful Tips

• Pat chicken dry thoroughly before seasoning for optimal crispiness.
• Use a digital thermometer for spot-on doneness and juicy results.
• Allow spices to bloom gently in oil for maximum flavor depth.
• Avoid overcooking garlic, as it can introduce bitterness.

Substitutions And Variations

• No smoked paprika? Use standard paprika and a dash of cumin for similar smokiness.
• Alternate cuts like thighs or breasts can be used with minor timing adjustments.
• Experiment with herbs such as thyme or rosemary to change the flavor profile.
• Spice it up by increasing the red pepper flakes or adding a pinch of cayenne.

Storage Instructions

Once cooled, store leftovers in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave until warmed through.

Nutritional Information

Each serving (1 drumstick) contains approximately:

• Calories: 209 kcal
• Protein: 14g
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 0.2g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 179mg
• Potassium: 224mg
• Vitamin A: 754 IU
• Vitamin C: 2mg
• Calcium: 30mg
• Iron: 1mg

Serving Suggestions

• Try it with oven-roasted vegetables or creamy garlic mashed potatoes.
• Serve with a refreshing salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette.
• Enjoy alongside rice pilaf or buttered egg noodles for a filling dish.
• Include a slice of rustic bread to soak up the flavorful drippings.

Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic and Paprika Chicken

Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks? Absolutely! Thighs work well and are just as juicy. Adjust the baking time depending on their size.

Is there a way to make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can marinate the drumsticks in the seasoned oil mixture and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I grill this instead of baking? Definitely. Grill the drumsticks over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

What sides go best with garlic and paprika chicken? Roasted veggies, rice, or a fresh salad are great pairings that complement the rich flavors.

How do I know the chicken is fully cooked? Insert a thermometer into the thickest part of a drumstick—it should register 165°F for safe consumption.

Conclusion

Thank you for trying out this garlic and paprika chicken recipe! It’s one of my personal favorites for its ease, depth of flavor, and guaranteed success every time. I truly hope it brings the same joy to your kitchen that it does to mine. Whether you’re making dinner for your loved ones or enjoying a solo feast, this dish combines smoky richness and juicy tenderness in every bite. Happy cooking, and thanks for being a cherished part of our food-loving community!