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Easy Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs: Juicy Weeknight Dinner

Three pieces of juicy bbq chicken thighs covered in a thick, dark, caramelized glaze resting on a white plate.

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Make unbelievably juicy and tender BBQ chicken thighs using just your oven. This simple recipe creates a sticky, sweet, and smoky glaze perfect for busy weeknights and guaranteed to become a family favorite.

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
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce (Sweet Baby Ray’s recommended)

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 up.
  3. In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Rub this seasoning mixture evenly over all sides of the chicken thighs.
  4. Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle lightly with olive oil.
  5. Bake for 25 minutes.
  6. Remove the chicken from the oven and brush a generous layer of your BBQ sauce over the top of each thigh.
  7. 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 sticky and slightly caramelized.
  8. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep the meat juicy.

Notes

  • For extra sticky glaze, brush on a second layer of BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  • If you prefer boneless, skinless thighs, reduce the total cook time by about 8-10 minutes.
  • This recipe works well for meal prep; store cooled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

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