Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs are a family favorite and perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ. They are coated in a flavorful BBQ sauce and baked to juicy perfection.
For specifics on the recipe use the table of contents to click on sections of the recipe.
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Looking for more recipes with BBQ sauce? These Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Wings are great as a meal or an appetizer. And, if you are on a budget these Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Legs are a great way to get a cheap protein source. Don't forget to check out one of our most popular recipes, Marinated Chicken Drumsticks.
Why you'll love this recipe
- You only need simple ingredients to make this BBQ baked chicken thigh recipe.
- The BBQ chicken thighs are tender, juicy, and flavor-packed, every time.
- Oven baked barbeque chicken thighs are perfect for feeding a crowd or a quick family dinner.
Ingredient List
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- bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- barbecue sauce
- olive oil
- smoked paprika
- garlic powder
- onion powder
- salt
- black pepper
- fresh parsley
Equipment
- Measuring Spoons and Cups
- paper towels
- Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls
- rimmed baking sheet
- aluminum foil
- Pastry Brush
Instructions
This is an overview of the recipe. The full instructions are below in the recipe card.
- Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Set aside.
- Mix the barbecue sauce, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour half of the sauce over the chicken thighs and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Place the chicken thighs on a wire rack on top of a foil-lined baking sheet. Bake for 35-40 minutes.
- Baste the thighs with more sauce halfway through the cooking time. Cool for 5 minutes, then garnish and serve.
Variations
Do you want to change up this recipe? Here are some ways to change the flavor of this dish.
- Protein: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. Keep in mind, cooking time is faster for boneless chicken. Also, bone-in thighs have more flavor because the bone adds flavor.
- Low Carb: Sticking to a keto or low-carb diet? Use your favorite sugar-free BBQ sauce. I like the G. Hughes brand.
- Add a kick of spice: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat.
- Citrus twist: Add the juice and zest of one lemon or lime to the marinade for a tangy, citrus flavor.
Eileen's Tips for Success
- Pat the chicken dry before applying the marinade to ensure the flavors stick to the skin.
- Don't skip the marinating time. Allowing the chicken thighs to marinate for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavor and tenderness.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.
- Line your baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. The sauce can caramelize and stick, saving you a lot of scrubbing time later.
Make ahead, storage, and freezer tips
Storage - Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
Freezer tips - Cooked chicken can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I bake chicken thighs covered or uncovered?
Do you put water in the pan when you are baking chicken?
Serving Suggestions
My family loves it when I serve this baked BBQ chicken with a potato side dish like this Easy Eggless Potato Salad, Homemade Mashed Potatoes, and a green side like this Easy Roasted Broccoli with Garlic or Southern Collard Greens.
Check out all our side dishes.
You can't forget a bread side like Easy Yeast Rolls or Air Fryer Biscuits.
Similar recipes
Check out all our chicken recipes
Chicken thighs are such a great option when you are on a budget. Here are some additional recipes to help you get the most out of your grocery budget:
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Eileen xo
If you click on the number of servings in the recipe card you can adjust the measurements up or down for the exact number of servings you need.
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Oven Chicken Thighs BBQ
Equipment
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Pat 8 (4-5) ounce bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Set aside.
- Make the barbeque sauce mixture: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups barbecue sauce, ¼ cup olive oil, 2 teaspoons smoked paprika, 2 teaspoons garlic powder, 2 teaspoons onion powder, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Taste the sauce, if needed, reseason any spices.
- Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour about HALF of the barbecue sauce mixture over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend. (note 1)
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on the baking sheet. Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on the rack, skin side up. Brush a little of the remaining barbeque sauce mixture over the top of each thigh.
- Roast the chicken thighs in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste with more barbecue sauce halfway through the cooking time for extra flavor and juiciness.
- Remove the chicken thighs from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite side dishes.
Nutrition
Notes
- Protein: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. Keep in mind, cooking time is faster for boneless chicken. Also, bone-in thighs have more flavor because the bone adds flavor.
- Low Carb: Sticking to a keto or low-carb diet? Use your favorite sugar-free BBQ sauce. I like the G. Hughes brand.
- Add a kick of spice: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat.
- Citrus twist: Add the juice and zest of one lemon or lime to the marinade for a tangy, citrus flavor.
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