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Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs Recipe Easy Perfect Juicy Dinner

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This oven baked BBQ chicken thighs recipe delivers juicy, tender meat with a smoky, tangy barbecue flavor and a caramelized crust. Perfect for a quick, fuss-free dinner any night of the week.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
  2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture and place them in a large bowl.
  3. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder (if using), salt, and black pepper.
  4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken thighs, then sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly. Toss well to coat every piece.
  5. Arrange the thighs skin-side up on a wire rack set over the baking sheet, making sure they are not touching.
  6. Bake for 25 minutes until the skin starts crisping and juices are sizzling.
  7. Remove the chicken from the oven and brush each thigh generously with BBQ sauce.
  8. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the sauce bubbles and caramelizes and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  9. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

For best texture, use fresh chicken thighs with skin on, not frozen. To get extra sticky BBQ skin, add another round of sauce brushing and broil for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning. If you don’t have a wire rack, place thighs directly on the baking sheet and turn halfway through cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Nutrition

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