| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 50 mins – 60 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 420 | 28g | 6g | 20g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 10g | 2g | 25g | 0.8g |
There’s just something magical about my Paprika Roasted Chicken recipe. Infused with the zest and fresh juice of citrusy oranges and lemons, and perfectly balanced with smoky paprika and fragrant herbs, it’s a testament to the power of fusion cuisine. Personal culinary creations like this make me feel at home while offering a fresh, west coast perspective.
The Taste of Two Cultures
Flavor fusion forms the heart of my cooking. Born and raised in California, my recipes celebrate the fresh, vibrant flavors of the West Coast. At the same time, I pay homage to my Gujarati roots by incorporating staple spices and cooking techniques from Indian cuisine. The result? Dishes like this Paprika Roasted Chicken that strike a chord with both my cultures.
This recipe’s unique blend of flavors has a particular resonance. Each bite is a celebration of juiciness and spice, reminiscent of traditional Indian chicken tangdi kabab but with a delightful citrus twist. Perfectly paired with a side of sautéed green beans or a fresh garden salad, it makes for a hearty, wholesome meal.
Nourishment and Nutrition
Just as important as the flavor, Paprika Roasted Chicken offers excellent health benefits. Lean chicken is high in protein and essential nutrients, while oranges and lemons provide a substantial vitamin C boost. Good-for-you spices like paprika and garlic provide anti-inflammatory benefits as well.
Thyme and rosemary, apart from their aromatic contributions, are powerhouses of medicinal properties believed to aid digestion and boost the immune system. The final touch? A drizzle of honey for some natural sweetness and a host of antioxidants.
So regardless of whether you’re looking for a recipe that is healthy, delicious, or represents a culinary fusion of cultures – or all three! – this Paprika Roasted Chicken is a winner.
Give this recipe a try and I’m confident you’ll fall in love with it, just like I have. As for me, my heart will forever be split between life by the Californian coastline and the flavors of my Indian heritage, merged in dishes like this.
Eager to learn more about fusion cuisine? Here’s a helpful article on MasterClass that explores the concept in depth.
What You’ll Need
- 6 chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 4 teaspoons of smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons of garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 medium-sized oranges, juiced
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 lemons, juiced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons of honey
- 3 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). While the oven is preheating, prep your chicken by patting it dry with paper towels. This will help the skin crispen up in the oven.
Step Two
In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 4 teaspoons of smoked paprika, 2 teaspoons of garlic powder, and salt and black pepper to taste. This will form your spice rub.
Step Three
Rub the spice mix equally onto the chicken thighs, ensuring every part of the chicken is covered. Place the chicken thighs in a large roasting pan.
Step Four
In a separate bowl, combine the juice of 3 medium-sized oranges, zest of 1 orange, juice of 2 lemons, zest of 1 lemon, and 2 tablespoons of honey. Whisk until everything is well combined.
Step Five
Drizzle the citrus and honey mixture over the chicken in the roasting pan. Make sure every piece of chicken is coated with the mixture.
Step Six
Place 3 sprigs of fresh thyme and 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary in the roasting pan with the chicken. These will infuse the chicken with additional flavor as it cooks.
Step Seven
Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven and cook for about 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the skin is crispy. Make sure to occasionally baste the chicken with the juices in the pan while it’s cooking.
Step Eight
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your flavorful and juicy Paprika Roasted Chicken!
