Description
Juicy and flavorful baked BBQ chicken thighs, perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. Get that smoky barbecue taste without firing up the grill! These oven-baked chicken thighs are incredibly tender and coated in a rich, homemade or store-bought BBQ sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6–8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons BBQ dry rub (or your favorite blend of spices)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easier cleanup, if desired.
- In a mixing bowl, drizzle the chicken thighs with olive oil. Sprinkle generously with BBQ dry rub, salt, and pepper. Make sure each thigh is well coated with the seasoning for the best flavor.
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are not overcrowded to allow for even cooking and crisping of the skin.
- Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. This initial baking time allows the chicken thighs to cook through and the skin to start crisping.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Using a pastry brush, generously brush the chicken thighs with your favorite BBQ sauce.
- Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the sauce is caramelized and sticky. For extra crispy baked chicken thighs, you can broil them for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For best results, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor and moisture.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; ensure the chicken thighs have enough space for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Customize your BBQ sauce by experimenting with different flavors.
- Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thigh
- Calories: 350 Kcal
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
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