When it comes to weeknight meals, few dishes are as satisfying and delicious as Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs.

This recipe not only delivers on flavor but also offers a straightforward cooking method that means more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.

The result is tender, juicy chicken thighs coated in a rich, tangy barbecue sauce that tantalizes the taste buds.

Whether served alongside fluffy rice, crispy roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad, these Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs are sure to become a family favorite.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs are the perfect combination of simplicity and flavor.

The tender chicken thighs soak up the delicious smoky and sweet BBQ sauce, creating a mouthwatering meal without the fuss of grilling or frying.

This recipe is designed for busy weeknights but is flavorful enough to impress guests at a dinner party.

Plus, with a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a wholesome and satisfying dish ready in no time!

Ingredients

2 pounds (900 g) boneless skinless chicken thighs, excess fat trimmed
¾ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
¾ teaspoon salt
¾ cup (180 ml) BBQ sauce, divided

How To Make Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).

This temperature ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and allows for a lovely caramelization of the BBQ sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the trimmed chicken thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt.

Ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Arrange the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken thighs in a baking dish, ensuring they are laid out in a single layer.

This will allow them to cook evenly and develop a nice texture.

Step 4: Add the BBQ Sauce

Spoon half of the BBQ sauce over the chicken thighs, making sure to coat them evenly.

Reserve the other half of the BBQ sauce for later to baste the chicken as it cooks.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

This will help lock in moisture and flavor.

Step 6: Baste and Continue Baking

After 25 minutes, remove the foil and carefully baste the chicken thighs with the reserved BBQ sauce.

Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 7: Broil for Extra Flavor

If desired, switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to give the chicken a nice char and enhance the flavor of the BBQ sauce.

Be sure to watch closely to avoid burning.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving.

This will help keep the juices inside the chicken.

Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious homemade meal!

Expert Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in the spice mix for a few hours or overnight before baking.
Consider using a meat thermometer to check for doneness; this ensures perfectly cooked chicken every time.
Feel free to adjust the amount of BBQ sauce based on your personal preference—more for a sticky, saucy finish, or less for a lighter coating.
If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the spice mix.

Variations and Customizations

Swap out the BBQ sauce for different marinades or sauces such as teriyaki, honey mustard, or buffalo sauce for a unique flavor twist.
For a smoky flavor, try adding a teaspoon of liquid smoke to the BBQ sauce.
Add chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a touch of color and freshness just before serving.
Mix in some diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers to the chicken before baking for a spicy kick.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave them for quicker reheating.

You can also freeze any leftovers for up to 3 months.

Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

FAQ

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs.

However, you will need to adjust the cooking time; they will typically take a bit longer to cook through compared to boneless thighs.

What sides go well with Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs?

Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs pair wonderfully with a variety of sides.

Consider serving them with coleslaw, cornbread, baked beans, or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the chicken.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and spices ahead of time, marinate them, and store them in the fridge.

Then, bake them when you’re ready for a quick and easy meal.

What type of BBQ sauce should I use?

Choose your favorite BBQ sauce! Whether it’s sweet, tangy, spicy, or homemade, the choice is yours.

Just make sure it complements the flavors you enjoy.

Conclusion

Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs are not just a meal; they are an experience filled with flavor, warmth, and comfort.

With their juicy texture and rich barbecue glaze, they are sure to please everyone at the dining table.

Easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite marinades and spices, this dish is perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to more formal gatherings.

So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress with this delectable recipe that’s sure to leave your taste buds wanting more! Enjoy the delightful taste of these oven-baked delights and make them a staple in your meal rotation.

Happy cooking!

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