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Looking for a dinner that’s as simple as it is delicious? This Smoked Paprika and Honey Chicken delivers on all fronts! With a quick broil in the oven, an irresistible smoked paprika rub, and a sticky-sweet honey finish, this dish is ideal for busy nights or when you crave something flavorful but fuss-free. Plus, it’s gluten-free and can be prepped in advance for meal planning.
Ingredients & Equipment
Ingredients Table:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless skinless chicken thighs | 2 lbs. |
| Salt & pepper | To taste |
| Chili powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Garlic powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon (sub: sweet paprika if needed) |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried parsley flakes (optional) | 1 teaspoon |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | Pinch or more as desired |
| Honey | 2 tablespoons |
| Cider vinegar or lemon juice | 2 teaspoons |
Recommended Kitchen Gear:
- Baking sheets: Shop here
- Mixing bowls: Shop here
- Chef’s knives: Shop here
- Measuring cups and spoons set: Shop here
- Cutting board: Shop here
- Silicone brush or spoon
- Oven: Shop here
Instructions
- Set your oven rack at least 4 inches from the broiler. Preheat the broiler on high. Line a baking sheet with foil or spray with cooking spray (try these nonstick baking sheets: shop here).
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Season each side generously with salt and pepper. Place chicken on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a bowl, mix chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, parsley, and red pepper flakes. Sprinkle this spice mix evenly over both sides of chicken.
- In a smaller bowl, combine honey and cider vinegar (or lemon juice) to form a glaze and set aside.
- Broil the chicken for 5-6 minutes, flip, then broil another 5-6 minutes. Flip once more, then brush the honey glaze over the pieces. Broil an additional 5 minutes or until the chicken is golden, sticky, and cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
- Remove, let rest for a few minutes, and serve hot!
Tips for Success
- Don’t skip drying the chicken; it helps the rub stick and ensures a crispy finish.
- Smoked paprika gives depth, but swap for sweet paprika if unavailable.
- Try adding lemon zest or extra red pepper for a flavor twist.
- Serve leftovers shredded in tacos, salads, or baked potatoes.
- For meal prep, refrigerate cooked chicken up to four days.
Equipment List
Silicone brush
See kitchen utensils set here
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes! Chicken breasts work well. Adjust broil time for thickness and check for doneness to avoid drying out.
Is there a substitute for smoked paprika?
Sweet (regular) paprika is a fine swap, but you’ll lose a bit of smokiness.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Can I make this in the air fryer?
Absolutely! Try air frying at 400°F for about 18 minutes, turning once. (Check out this top-rated air fryer: shop here)
What sides pair well with this chicken?
Roasted potatoes, fresh salads, rice pilaf, or steamed veggies work great.
Smoked Paprika and Honey Chicken
Tender, juicy chicken thighs broiled with a smoky paprika rub and finished with a sticky-sweet honey glaze.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 17 mins
- Total Time: 22 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Broil
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
2 lbs. boneless skinless chicken thighs
salt & pepper to taste
2 teaspoons chili powder
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes (optional)
pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons honey
2 teaspoons cider vinegar or lemon juice
Instructions
1. Set oven rack at least 4 inches from broiler. Preheat broiler on high. Line a baking sheet with foil or spray nonstick cooking spray.
2. Pat chicken dry, season both sides with salt and pepper, place on prepared baking sheet.
3. Mix chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, parsley, and red pepper flakes. Sprinkle over both sides of chicken.
4. Mix honey and cider vinegar (or lemon juice) in small bowl. Set aside.
5. Broil chicken 5-6 min. Flip and broil another 5-6 min. Flip again and brush honey glaze. Broil 5 more min until golden and cooked through.
Notes
Smoked paprika is recommended for deep flavor; sweet paprika is an alternative.
For meal prep, store leftovers in the fridge up to 4 days.
Delicious served in sandwiches, salads, or with roasted veggies.
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