Smoked Paprika Chicken 

This Smoked Paprika Chicken recipe offers a healthier, homemade alternative to fried chicken. It features a flavorful spice rub that creates a crispy, golden crust on tender chicken thighs, all baked in the oven. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, this dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

• For the Spice Rub:
  
  

  • 3 teaspoons smoked paprika
    
    

  • ½ teaspoon hot paprika (optional, for extra heat)
    
    

  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
    
    

  • ¾ teaspoon onion salt
    
    

  • 1 teaspoon garlic salt
    
    

  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
    
    

  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
    
    

  • 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
    
    

• For the Egg Wash:
  
  

  • 1 egg
    
    

  • 1 tablespoon milk
    
    

  • Pinch of salt

• For the Chicken:
  
  

  • 500 grams (about 1 lb) skinless chicken thighs
    
    

  • Light spray of oil

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly spray a baking tray with oil.

2. Prepare the Spice Rub: In a large bowl, combine the smoked paprika, hot paprika (if using), sweet paprika, onion salt, garlic salt, thyme, oregano, and breadcrumbs. Mix well.M
   
   

3. Prepare the Egg Wash: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
   
   

4. Coat the Chicken:
   
   

   • Dip each chicken thigh into the egg wash, ensuring it's fully coated.
     
     

   • Transfer the chicken to the spice rub mixture, pressing firmly to coat both sides evenly.
     
     

5. Arrange and Bake: Place the coated chicken thighs on the prepared baking tray, skin side up. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy.
   
   

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 462 kcal
  
  

• Protein: 55 g
  
  

• Fat: 13 g
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 25 g
  
  

• Fiber: 5 g
  
  

• Sugar: 6 g