Garlic and Paprika Chicken

Baked Garlic and Paprika Chicken is such a great easy chicken recipe that’s can’t-stop-eating-it good! A juicy and hearty savory sheet pan meal, I adore this combination of tender meat, crispy skin, warm spices and herbs with big cloves of garlic.

Save

This is really just Roasted Chicken but I like to call it “Baked Garlic and Paprika Chicken” because the immature child within believes it sounds a heck of a lot more interesting to say “we’re having Garlic Paprika Chicken for dinner tonight” rather than just “roast chicken”.

Who’s with me on this? 😂

Well, whatever we think this should be called, it doesn’t matter! What matters is that it’s utterly delicious, and I think it’s a great easy chicken recipe that’s a little different to the usual pan frying or grilling recipes that can be made with many cuts of chicken.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold flavor meets easy prep in a way that feels rewarding every single time. This chicken fits busy nights and relaxed weekends with the same ease.

Oven baked ease: No stovetop babysitting needed.

Strong garlic flavor: Roasted cloves mellow and taste rich.

Warm spice balance: Paprika adds color and depth.

Juicy texture: Chicken stays tender from start to finish.

Family friendly: Simple flavors everyone understands.

Save

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 pounds chicken thighs or drumsticks skin on
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh parsley chopped for garnish

Save

Step by Step Instructions

1. Heat the Oven

Set the oven to 400°F. Let it fully heat so the chicken starts cooking right away once it goes in.

2. Prepare the Seasoning

In a bowl mix paprika, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well so everything blends evenly.

3. Coat the Chicken

Place chicken in a large bowl. Add olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and the spice mix. Use your hands to coat every piece fully.

4. Arrange for Baking

Lay the chicken skin side up on a baking dish. Leave space between pieces so heat circulates properly.

5. Bake Until Golden

Slide the dish into the oven and bake for forty five minutes. The skin should look golden and slightly crisp.

6. Rest Before Serving

Remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for five minutes. This keeps the juices inside the meat.

Tips & Variations

• Broil for three minutes at the end.
• Add a pinch of chili powder.
• Use thighs and reduce bake time slightly.
• Add whole cloves to the pan.
• Sprinkle fresh parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Baked Garlic and Paprika Chicken pairs well with roasted potatoes that soak up the juices. Steamed rice also works beautifully and keeps the meal simple.

For a lighter plate, serve alongside a crisp green salad with lemon dressing. The fresh crunch balances the warm spices perfectly and keeps the meal feeling fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can chicken breasts work here?

Yes though thighs stay juicier in the oven.

Does smoked paprika matter?

It adds depth though regular paprika still tastes great.

Can this dish prep ahead?

Yes season the chicken earlier and refrigerate.

How do leftovers keep?

Store in the fridge up to three days.

Can frozen chicken work?

Thaw fully before seasoning and baking.

Is this recipe spicy?

It stays mild with gentle warmth.

Final Thoughts

Baked Garlic and Paprika Chicken proves that simple seasoning can still feel exciting. Garlic softens, paprika blooms, and the oven pulls everything together into a comforting dish.

This recipe fits nights when cooking needs to feel easy and satisfying. Once it comes out of the oven, the smell alone makes the wait worthwhile.