Name: Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-483760H19M38S
Total time: PT-483760H19M38S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 bone-in, skin-on or boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (of choice); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

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Short Description

Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs offer a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors with tender, juicy meat encased in a caramelized barbecue glaze. This easy and foolproof recipe requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or meal prep. Whether served alongside classic sides or used for sandwiches and wraps, these chicken thighs are sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Incredibly Juicy & Flavorful – Chicken thighs retain their moisture well, ensuring tender and succulent meat every time.
Effortless Preparation – Minimal ingredients and a simple baking method make this recipe perfect for beginners and busy cooks.
Caramelized BBQ Glaze – Baking at high heat allows the barbecue sauce to thicken and develop a deliciously sticky glaze.
Versatile & Customizable – Easily adapt the recipe to suit different flavor preferences with various BBQ sauces and seasonings.
Great for Meal Prep – These chicken thighs reheat beautifully, making them an excellent choice for prepping ahead of time.

Ingredients

Bone-in, skin-on or boneless, skinless chicken thighs
BBQ sauce of choice
Olive oil
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Smoked paprika
Salt
Black pepper
Cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Directions

Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Prepare the Chicken – Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring a better sear and crispier texture.
Season the Chicken – In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over each chicken thigh.
Arrange on Baking Sheet – Place the chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
Bake the Chicken – Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Apply BBQ Sauce – Remove the chicken from the oven and generously brush each piece with BBQ sauce. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the sauce to caramelize.
Broil for Extra Char (Optional) – For an extra smoky and slightly charred effect, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Rest & Serve – Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or cornbread.

Variations

Spicy Kick – Add hot sauce or extra cayenne pepper to the BBQ sauce for a fiery twist.
Honey BBQ Glaze – Mix a tablespoon of honey into the BBQ sauce for a sweeter and glossier finish.
Dry-Rubbed Option – Skip the BBQ sauce and focus on a smoky, spiced dry rub for a different flavor profile.
Grilled Version – Instead of baking, cook the seasoned thighs on a grill over medium heat for a smokier taste.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Wrap the chicken tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave in short intervals to prevent drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken breasts tend to be leaner and may dry out. Adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking.

2. What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?

Any store-bought or homemade BBQ sauce works. Choose one that matches your flavor preference, whether smoky, sweet, or spicy.

3. Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?

Yes! Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

4. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Use bone-in, skin-on thighs for extra moisture retention and avoid overcooking.

5. Can I marinate the chicken beforehand?

Absolutely! Marinate the chicken in BBQ sauce for up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Most BBQ sauces contain gluten. Use a certified gluten-free BBQ sauce if needed.

7. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the chicken ahead and reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.

8. What are the best sides to serve with this dish?

Popular choices include coleslaw, cornbread, roasted vegetables, mac and cheese, or a fresh green salad.

9. How do I get extra crispy skin?

Pat the chicken dry before seasoning, bake at a high temperature, and broil at the end for extra crispiness.

10. Can I use frozen chicken thighs?

Yes, but thaw them completely before baking for even cooking and better texture.

Conclusion

Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs are a simple yet flavorful dish that delivers restaurant-quality results at home. With a smoky-sweet glaze and tender, juicy meat, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Serve it with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Try it today and enjoy the irresistible taste of homemade BBQ chicken!

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