Name: Garlic and Paprika Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 chicken drumsticks; ½ cup olive oil; 8 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes; ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped; ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste; ½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste

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If you love bold flavors and crispy, juicy chicken, you are going to adore this Garlic and Paprika Chicken Recipe. This dish combines the rich aroma of garlic with the smoky depth of paprika, delivering a truly irresistible meal that feels both comforting and a little adventurous. The chicken drumsticks bake up tender on the inside with a perfectly seasoned, crispy skin on the outside, making it a crowd-pleaser any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing friends, this recipe is as simple as it is delicious, guaranteeing a satisfying plate every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows four raw chicken legs with pale pink skin and a bit of yellow near the ends, arranged in a loose stack on a round dark plate placed on a white marbled surface. Around the plate, there are several small white bowls with different ingredients: chopped green parsley, diced white onion with one half onion piece, a reddish-brown powder, and minced garlic. Additionally, there are three garlic cloves without skins near the bottom left corner. Two small glass jars, one filled with a creamy white liquid and the other with a light yellow broth, sit near the upper right side. To the right of the chicken, there is a small pile of uncooked white rice grains on the surface. Several wooden spoons in varying sizes are scattered around, three together at the bottom right and three crossed near the top left. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Garlic and Paprika Chicken Recipe plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make the dish sing. From the creamy olive oil to the fresh herbs, each component enhances the taste and creates that signature irresistible aroma.

12 chicken drumsticks: The perfect cut for juicy, tender meat with crispy skin.
½ cup olive oil: Adds richness and helps infuse the spices into the chicken.
8 cloves garlic (minced): Delivers pungent aroma and bold flavor without overpowering.
2 tablespoons smoked paprika: Imparts a warm, smoky depth essential to the dish’s character.
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds a subtle kick to awaken the palate.
¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped): Brings fresh, herbaceous brightness to the final dish.
2 tablespoons fresh oregano (chopped): Offers a slightly peppery, woodsy note that complements the paprika perfectly.
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste): Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
½ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste): Adds just enough heat and complexity.

How to Make Garlic and Paprika Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. This high heat is key for getting the chicken skin crispy while keeping the meat juicy and tender inside. Meanwhile, clean and dry the drumsticks thoroughly with paper towels, which helps the skin crisp up beautifully during baking.

Step 2: Make the Garlic and Paprika Sauce

In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, fresh parsley, and oregano. Cook for about one minute, stirring constantly. Be careful not to burn the garlic here — just a minute is enough to bring out the flavor without any bitterness.

Step 3: Season and Coat the Chicken

Once your drumsticks are dry, season them generously with salt and black pepper. Pour the warm olive oil and spice mixture over the chicken, making sure every piece is thoroughly coated with the vibrant sauce. This step is the heart of the Garlic and Paprika Chicken Recipe, infusing each bite with that mouthwatering combination of flavors.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Arrange the coated drumsticks in a 9×13-inch baking dish, spacing them out for even cooking. Bake for approximately 45 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is perfectly crispy. The smell from the oven will have you eager to dig in!

How to Serve Garlic and Paprika Chicken Recipe

A white round plate holds a bed of creamy, smooth mashed potatoes with some orange sauce drizzled on top and around the sides; on top of the mashed potatoes are two grilled drumsticks with a charred, spicy seasoning and sprinkled green herbs. Surrounding the mashed potatoes is a fresh green salad with different types of lettuce, some bacon bits, and thin yellow vegetable strips. A fork sticks into the mashed potatoes next to the drumsticks. The plate is set on a white marbled surface with a cloth napkin partially visible underneath. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or oregano adds a beautiful splash of green and a fresh note that contrasts wonderfully against the smoky paprika. For an extra pop, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the chicken brightens up the flavors and adds a touch of acidity that really wakes up the dish.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs effortlessly with a variety of sides. Think roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp garden salad to balance the richness of the chicken. Rice pilaf or a warm crusty bread also works perfectly, soaking up any leftover garlicky paprika sauce from the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, try arranging the chicken drumsticks on a rustic wooden board with bowls of fresh herb salad and dips nearby. Alternatively, serve the chicken atop a bed of vibrant couscous or quinoa for a healthy twist. The comforting colors and inviting aroma make it a real centerpiece for any meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh and flavorful for about 3 to 4 days. Proper cooling before storing is essential to maintain that tender texture and bold flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked Garlic and Paprika Chicken Recipe without losing its deliciousness. Wrap the cooled drumsticks individually or place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll last up to three months, making this recipe a go-to for quick meals later on.

Reheating

To enjoy your leftovers, reheat the chicken gently in an oven preheated to 350°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This method helps maintain the crispy skin, which often gets lost in the microwave. If pressed for time, the microwave works too, but keep an eye to avoid drying it out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully with this recipe. They’ll cook in roughly the same time and deliver a similarly juicy and flavorful experience.

What if I don’t have smoked paprika?

Regular paprika is a fine substitute if smoked paprika isn’t available. While it won’t lend the smoky depth, the dish will still be delicious and full of flavor.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The safest way is to use an instant-read meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to be fully safe and juicy.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the garlic and paprika sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just warm it gently before tossing with the chicken.

Is this recipe spicy?

The red pepper flakes add a mild heat, but the overall spice level is moderate. You can adjust the amount of flakes to your personal taste or omit them for a milder dish.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic and Paprika Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that fills your kitchen with warmth and brings everyone around the table. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and simply unforgettable in every bite. Whether it becomes your weeknight staple or your special occasion favorite, I highly encourage you to give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!

Garlic and Paprika Chicken Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need