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Paprika Grilled Chicken with Vegetables |
Paprika Grilled Chicken with Vegetables: Delicious, Wholesome Heaven
Imagine the smoky aroma of paprika chicken cooked on an open flame, sizzling in the fire, accentuated by a rainbow assortment of blackened vegetables. It's not just dinner; it's an experience. This comfort food, used to being devoured by families nationwide, is the ultimate combination of bold flavor and healthy wholesomeness. High in protein, high in vitamins, and high in pizzazz, it's a recipe that's good for the body and the palate.
No matter if you're on the hunt for a weeknight champion, a BBQ get-together rock star, or a meal-prep magician, paprika grilled chicken and vegetables is a winning dish on all fronts. Step by step in this recipe, take a journey from start to finish—ingredients to chef's tips—so that you'll be a pro at this recipe in no time.
Why Paprika Grilled Chicken with Vegetables?
Paprika, a spice derived from dried and ground peppers, isn’t just about color—it’s a powerhouse of smoky, slightly sweet, and mildly spicy flavors. When combined with succulent grilled chicken, it creates an irresistible depth of taste. Add to that a mix of grilled vegetables, and you’ve got a dish that’s as visually stunning as it is nutritious.
Why is this dish so popular?
- Simplicity: minimal ingredients, easy preparation.
- Nutritional Value: Packed with lean protein, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.
- Versatility: Works well for weeknight meals, BBQ parties, or meal prep.
Now, let’s dive into the recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken Marinade
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of half a lemon
For the Grilled Vegetables
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 red onion, sliced wedges
1 cup cherry tomatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried basil or basil leaves for garnish
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken for Ultimate Flavor
Secret to tender and delicious chicken? Perfectly balanced marinade.
Whisk in a bowl paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Mix lemon juice and olive oil and blend until a thick paste is formed.
Spread the chicken all over so that the entire inch is covered.
Let it sit—at least 30 minutes, though the longer, the better penetration of flavor.
2. Prep Vegetables
While the chicken sits, prepare the vegetables.
Mix in a big bowl together cherry tomatoes, red onion, zucchini, and bell peppers sliced with olive oil, pepper, and salt.
Add a bit of dried basil for some herbal flavor.
Coat everything evenly—that'll guarantee even charring on the grill.
3. Grill On!
Heat control is the key to a good grill.
Preheat your grill to medium-high and give your grates a light brush of oil so that it doesn't stick.
Grill the chicken 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they're 165°F (74°C) internally.
Grill the vegetables in a grill basket (or directly on the grates) for 5-7 minutes, flipping every so often as they develop that wonderful caramelization.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Let the chicken rest for a minute or two before slicing—this keeps it from losing its juices.
Move the grilled vegetables to a platter, top with sliced chicken, and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Serve over quinoa, brown rice, or a green salad for a meal.
Health Benefits of Paprika Grilled Chicken with Vegetables
1. Lean Protein Powerhouse
Chicken breast is a good source of protein for muscle repair and overall health.
2. Vitamin-Rich Vegetables
Bell peppers and zucchini are rich in vitamins A and C, which are good for immunity and healthy skin.
3. Antioxidant Power with Paprika
Paprika has carotenoids that fight oxidative stress and inflammation.
4. Healthy Olive Oil
The monounsaturated fats in olive oil are healthy for the heart and reduce bad cholesterol.
FAQs: Your Questions, Answered
Q1: Can I use thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Thighs are fattier, so they're moister. Reduce cooking time, still with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Q2: No outdoor grilling? No worries!
Grill indoors in a pan on the stovetop or roast chicken and veggies in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes.
Q3: Spicy, anyone?
Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for an extra kick.
Q4: Can I prep ahead?
Absolutely!
- Marinate chicken overnight for best flavor.
- Store cooked chicken and veggies in the fridge, in covered containers, for 3 days.
Q5: Alternative veggie options?
Be creative! Substitute with mushrooms, asparagus, or eggplant. The trick is even slicing so everything gets an equal grill.
Q6: Is the recipe meal-prep friendly?
100%! Batch cooking, container storage, and week-ready meals at your fingertips.
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Final Thoughts
Paprika Grilled Chicken and Vegetables is not just a recipe, a flavor sensation, a health food rockstar, and a meal prep winner. From a quiet night in with the family to a summer season barbecue to a quick weekly meal prep, this recipe never fails. So go ahead, light it up, work that paprika magic, and relish every bite of that smoky, saucy goodness.
ENJOY!
"Did you enjoy this recipe?" We have plenty more delicious and easy-to-make dishes waiting for you! Explore more amazing recipes on our blog: bitellush.blogspot.com. Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments!"
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