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Easy Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs for Juicy Results

Two pieces of juicy, caramelized bbq chicken thighs with a dark, glossy glaze sitting on a white plate.

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Make incredibly juicy and flavorful BBQ chicken thighs using your oven. This simple recipe skips the grill fuss and delivers a sticky, sweet, and smoky glaze perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil for easier cleanup.
  2. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry using paper towels. This step helps the skin crisp.
  3. In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika to create a dry rub.
  4. Rub the olive oil over all surfaces of the chicken thighs. Sprinkle the dry rub evenly over the chicken, pressing it gently into the skin.
  5. Place the seasoned thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
  6. Bake for 25 minutes.
  7. Remove the pan from the oven. Brush a generous layer of BBQ sauce over the top of each thigh.
  8. Return the chicken to the oven and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the sauce is caramelized and sticky.
  9. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep the meat juicy.

Notes

  • For extra crispy skin, switch the oven to the broiler setting for the last 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning the sauce.
  • If you are planning meals for the week, this recipe works well for meal planning; leftovers are great cold or reheated.
  • This method works well for other cuts, but adjust the cooking time for breasts or wings.

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