Description
Sticky, smoky, sweet, and irresistibly tender—this oven-baked BBQ chicken thigh recipe gives you everything you love about grilled BBQ without needing to fire up the grill. With just a few pantry staples and your favorite sauce, you’ll create a dinner that feels indulgent yet takes minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend meal preps, these chicken thighs come out juicy, flavorful, and perfectly caramelized every time. It’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again—delicious, simple, and utterly satisfying.
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thigh
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- ½ cup thick BBQ sauce (plus more for serving)
- Optional: 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (for tangy BBQ sauce)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
- Pat chicken dry and rub with olive oil.
- In a bowl, mix all spices and sugar. Rub seasoning all over the chicken, including under the skin.
- Arrange chicken skin-side up on the rack. Bake for 35–40 minutes.
- Remove and brush with BBQ sauce. Return to oven for 10–15 more minutes, or until sauce is sticky and caramelized.
- Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes for charred edges.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate chicken in spice rub overnight.
- Use a thicker sauce to ensure proper caramelization.
- Double the sauce if you like your chicken extra sticky.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Oven-Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4–6
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 120mg