Name: Easy Baked Barbecue Chicken Thighs: 5-Star Flavor
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-491975H9M14S
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup ketchup; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons orange juice; 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon liquid smoke; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne powder; 5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (8–10 thighs)

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Introduction

Easy Baked Barbecue Chicken Thighs is a delightful recipe that brings together tender, juicy chicken thighs coated in a rich homemade barbecue sauce. The perfect fusion of sweetness, smokiness, and spice makes this dish a standout for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something to impress guests, this recipe is your answer. Let’s dive into how to create this mouthwatering dish!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Baked Barbecue Chicken Thighs

This recipe is not only simple but also incredibly satisfying. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:

Quick preparation time—perfect for busy weeknights.
The chicken is oven-baked, ensuring a healthier meal compared to frying.
It features a delicious homemade barbecue sauce that’s easy to whip up.
Perfectly tender baked chicken thighs with barbecue sauce that will wow your family.
Great for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy leftovers.
Family-friendly and kid-approved, making it an ideal choice for dinner.

This Quick Barbecue Chicken Thighs Recipe fits within a Gluten Free diet, catering to various dietary needs. Enjoy the classic American flavors while keeping it simple!

Ingredients for Easy Baked Barbecue Chicken Thighs

Gather these items:

1 cup ketchup
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons orange juice
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon liquid smoke
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne powder
5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (8–10 thighs)

How to Make Easy Baked Barbecue Chicken Thighs Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a rimmed sheet pan with aluminum foil and spray it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, orange juice, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, kosher salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne powder until well combined to create the barbecue sauce.
Step 3: Set aside 1/4 cup of the barbecue sauce in a small bowl; this will be used later for basting the chicken as it bakes.
Step 4: Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs to the remaining barbecue sauce in the large bowl. Toss and turn the chicken until each thigh is evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 5: Place the coated chicken thighs in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan. If there is any leftover sauce in the bowl, brush it over the top of the chicken thighs for extra flavor.
Step 6: Bake the chicken thighs in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. After 15 minutes, baste the chicken with the reserved 1/4 cup sauce to keep them moist and flavorful. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.

Easy Baked Barbecue Chicken Thighs: 5-Star Flavor - Easy Baked Barbecue Chicken Thighs - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Easy Baked Barbecue Chicken Thighs

Keep these in mind:

Marinate the chicken thighs in the barbecue sauce for a few hours before baking for deeper flavor.
For extra crispy skin, broil the chicken thighs for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
Ensure the chicken is spaced out on the pan for even cooking; use a One-Pan Baked Barbecue Chicken Thighs approach for easy cleanup.

Best Ways to Serve Easy Baked Barbecue Chicken Thighs

Pair this delicious dish with:

Coleslaw for a refreshing crunch.
Mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the barbecue sauce.
Grilled corn on the cob for a complete summer meal.

How to Store and Reheat Easy Baked Barbecue Chicken Thighs

To store leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This recipe is perfect for meal prep, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Baked Barbecue Chicken Thighs

What’s the secret to perfect Easy Baked Barbecue Chicken Thighs?

The secret lies in the homemade barbecue sauce that balances sweetness and spice, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. Using Baked Chicken Thighs with Sweet Barbecue Sauce adds a unique touch that elevates the dish.

Can I make Easy Baked Barbecue Chicken Thighs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and marinate the chicken thighs in the sauce a day in advance. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making the dish even tastier.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Easy Baked Barbecue Chicken Thighs?

To avoid dryness, don’t overbake the chicken. Always check the internal temperature, and baste regularly with the reserved sauce for juicy results.

Variations of Easy Baked Barbecue Chicken Thighs You Can Try

Experiment with these variations:

Add pineapple juice to the barbecue sauce for a tropical twist.
Try different spices like smoked paprika or chipotle for a smoky flavor.
For a healthier option, use skinless chicken thighs or replace brown sugar with honey.

These tweaks make this dish adaptable for any palate or occasion, while still being family-friendly!

Easy Baked Barbecue Chicken Thighs: 5-Star Flavor - Easy Baked Barbecue Chicken Thighs - additional detail

For more delicious chicken recipes, check out Honey Garlic Chicken or Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs. If you’re interested in meal prep ideas, you might enjoy Creamy Garlic Chicken Thighs as well!