Caramelized Bbq Chicken Thighs In The Oven
These Caramelized BBQ Chicken Thighs are tender, juicy, and infused with a rich, sweet barbecue flavor. Perfectly roasted in the oven, they make for an easy weeknight dinner or a flavorful dish for gatherings.
Equipment
- 1 oven
- 1 baking dish or sheet pan
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 whisk or spoon
- 1 meat thermometer (optional)
- 1 basting brush
Ingredients
- 4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- ½ cup barbecue sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- as needed pieces fresh parsley for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until smooth.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispier skin.
- Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish or on a sheet pan, skin side up. Brush the tops and sides with the barbecue mixture, ensuring an even coat.
- Reserve about 2 tablespoons of the barbecue mixture for basting later.
- Place the chicken thighs in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes.
- After 25 minutes, remove the chicken thighs from the oven. Baste the tops with the reserved barbecue mixture.
- Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is caramelized and crispy.
- Once done, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot with your favorite sides.
Notes
For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in the barbecue sauce overnight.
Serve with coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread for a complete meal.
Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the chicken thighs; always ensure they reach the safe internal temperature.