Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs

A Delicious and Easy BBQ Chicken Recipe

Baked BBQ chicken thighs are a flavorful, juicy, and effortless dish perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. With a smoky, caramelized barbecue glaze and tender, juicy meat, this dish satisfies cravings without the hassle of grilling. The combination of baking and broiling ensures crispy skin and deep flavor, making it a favorite for BBQ lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation – Requires minimal prep and bakes in under an hour.
• Juicy and Flavorful – The dark meat of chicken thighs stays moist and tender.
• Perfectly Caramelized – A short broil at the end enhances the BBQ glaze.
• Versatile – Pairs well with sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
• Family-Friendly – A guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. This allows air circulation for crispy skin.

2. Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up. Rub each thigh with olive oil, then season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if using.

3. Arrange on the Baking Rack

Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up on the wire rack.

4. Bake the Chicken

Bake for 35 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

5. Brush with BBQ Sauce

Remove the chicken from the oven and generously brush each thigh with BBQ sauce. Return to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes.

6. Broil for Caramelization

Switch the oven to broil and cook for 2–3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. This helps create a sticky, caramelized BBQ glaze.

7. Rest and Serve

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Pair with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Variations

• Boneless Chicken Thighs – Reduce cooking time to about 25–30 minutes.
• Spicy BBQ – Add extra cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce.
• Honey BBQ – Mix 1 tablespoon of honey into the BBQ sauce for extra sweetness.
• Oven-Fried Style – Coat the chicken lightly in flour before baking for extra crispiness.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4–6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes or in the microwave for 1–2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I ensure crispy skin?

Pat the chicken dry before seasoning, and use a wire rack for baking. Broiling at the end also enhances crispiness.

Can I use boneless, skinless thighs?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time to around 25–30 minutes since they cook faster.

What’s the best BBQ sauce for this recipe?

Use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce or make a homemade version with ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and spices.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can season the chicken and refrigerate it up to 24 hours before baking.

Should I cover the chicken while baking?

No, leaving it uncovered allows the skin to crisp up.

Can I use chicken drumsticks instead?

Yes! The cooking time may need slight adjustments but should be similar.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Can I cook this recipe on the grill?

Yes! Grill over medium heat for 6–7 minutes per side, then brush with BBQ sauce and cook for another 5 minutes.

What are the best sides to serve with BBQ chicken?

Great options include cornbread, mac and cheese, roasted vegetables, or coleslaw.

How do I prevent the BBQ sauce from burning?

Apply BBQ sauce in the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent it from burning.

Conclusion

Baked BBQ chicken thighs are a simple yet delicious meal that brings smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors to your table. With minimal effort and a guaranteed juicy result, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it with classic BBQ sides or getting creative with variations, it’s sure to become a household favorite!

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