Oven-baked BBQ chicken thighs are juicy, flavorful, and easy to prepare. This recipe delivers tender, perfectly caramelized chicken coated in a rich, smoky barbecue sauce. It’s an effortless meal perfect for weeknight dinners or backyard gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients and easy preparation
- Perfectly juicy and tender chicken thighs
- A smoky, caramelized BBQ glaze
- Great for meal prep and leftovers
- Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Olive oil
- Salt and black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Smoked paprika
- Chili powder (optional for heat)
- Your favorite BBQ sauce
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the chicken thighs by patting them dry with a paper towel.
- Season the chicken with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and chili powder.
- Arrange the thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Brush with BBQ sauce and return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until the sauce is caramelized.
- Rest the chicken for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 40-45 minutes
- Total time: 50-55 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the seasoning mix.
- Honey BBQ: Mix honey into the BBQ sauce for a sweeter glaze.
- Boneless Option: Use boneless thighs and reduce the cooking time to 25-30 minutes.
- Smokier Flavor: Add a touch of liquid smoke to the BBQ sauce.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave in short intervals.
FAQs
How do I ensure my chicken thighs stay juicy?
Pat the chicken dry before seasoning and avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer.
Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time to 25-30 minutes as boneless thighs cook faster.
What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?
Use your favorite store-bought sauce or make a homemade version for extra flavor control.
Can I marinate the chicken beforehand?
Yes, marinate the thighs in BBQ sauce and seasonings for up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.
Should I cover the chicken while baking?
No, baking uncovered helps the skin crisp up and allows the sauce to caramelize.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Can I use a grill instead of an oven?
Yes, grill over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes per side, then brush with BBQ sauce and cook until caramelized.
Is it necessary to broil at the end?
Broiling is optional but helps achieve a caramelized, sticky BBQ glaze.
Can I make this recipe keto-friendly?
Use a sugar-free BBQ sauce and reduce the honey or sweetener in the recipe.
What side dishes pair well with BBQ chicken thighs?
Serve with coleslaw, cornbread, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Oven-baked BBQ chicken thighs are an easy and delicious meal perfect for any occasion. With a smoky, sweet glaze and juicy, tender meat, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Serve it with your favorite sides for a satisfying, home-cooked meal.
Print
Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These oven-baked BBQ chicken thighs are juicy, flavorful, and coated in a deliciously sticky barbecue sauce. With a perfect balance of smokiness and sweetness, this easy recipe is great for weeknight dinners or weekend cookouts—no grill required!
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional for extra sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top (this helps the chicken cook evenly).
- Season Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder. Rub the seasoning mix all over the chicken thighs.
- Bake First Round: Place the chicken on the wire rack, skin-side up. Brush lightly with olive oil. Bake for 25 minutes.
- Add BBQ Sauce: In a small bowl, mix barbecue sauce, honey, and Worcestershire sauce. Brush a generous layer onto the chicken thighs.
- Bake Again: Return to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 175°F (79°C).
- Broil for Crispiness (Optional): If you want extra caramelization, broil the chicken on high for 2-3 minutes until the skin is crispy and the sauce is bubbling.
- Rest & Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides!
Notes
- BBQ Sauce Variations: Try spicy, honey mustard, or smoky bourbon BBQ sauce for different flavors.
- Boneless Option: If using boneless chicken thighs, reduce cooking time by about 10 minutes.
- Serving Ideas: Pair with coleslaw, cornbread, roasted veggies, or mashed potatoes.
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