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Easy Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs

Close-up of two pieces of juicy bbq chicken with a dark, caramelized glaze resting on a white plate.

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Make juicy, tender BBQ chicken thighs using a simple oven method. This recipe uses a sweet and smoky sauce for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
  2. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry using paper towels. This helps the skin crisp.
  3. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika to create a rub.
  4. Rub the spice mixture evenly over all surfaces of the chicken thighs.
  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 the tops of the chicken generously with the BBQ sauce.
  8. Return the chicken to the oven and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) and the sauce is slightly caramelized.
  9. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For extra crispy skin, place the thighs on a wire rack set inside the baking sheet before baking.
  • You can substitute bone-in, skin-on breasts for thighs, but adjust the cooking time as needed.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce coating, apply a second layer of BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

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