Delicious BBQ Chicken Thighs: A Baked Delight
Nothing beats the rich and smoky flavors of perfectly grilled BBQ chicken. But what if you don’t have access to a grill? Don’t worry, because today we’re going to show you how to make mouthwatering BBQ chicken thighs right in your oven! We’ll guide you through the process, step by step, so that you can enjoy tender and flavorful chicken thighs any time, no matter the weather or lack of outdoor space.
What You’ll Need:
- 4-6 chicken thighs
- 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Thighs
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help the BBQ sauce cling to the chicken and create a delicious glaze. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish or a cast-iron skillet.
Step 2: Seasoning Time
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, brown sugar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Massage the seasoning mixture onto the chicken thighs, making sure they are evenly coated on all sides. This will infuse the chicken with a burst of flavor.
Step 3: Bake and Brush
Place the baking dish or skillet in the preheated oven and let the chicken thighs bake for 20 minutes. After the initial bake, remove the chicken from the oven and generously brush each thigh with your favorite BBQ sauce. Be sure to coat them thoroughly to create that sticky and caramelized glaze.
Step 4: Bake Some More
Put the chicken thighs back in the oven and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures that the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat. While the chicken is baking, feel free to brush on more BBQ sauce every 5 minutes to enhance the flavor and create that irresistible BBQ finish.
Step 5: Enjoy the Feast
Once the chicken thighs are perfectly cooked and nicely caramelized, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and succulent meat. Serve your BBQ chicken thighs with a side of coleslaw, cornbread, or your favorite BBQ sides.
Now you know how to cook BBQ chicken thighs in the oven like a pro! Whether it’s raining, snowing, or you simply don’t have access to a grill, this oven-baked method will satisfy your BBQ cravings. So go ahead, give it a try, and impress your family and friends with these finger-licking good BBQ chicken thighs. Happy cooking!
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