Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this irresistible Oven Baked BBQ Chicken recipe! Imagine tender, juicy chicken thighs with a perfectly caramelized, glossy BBQ glaze that'll have your family and friends begging for seconds. This foolproof method guarantees restaurant-quality results right in your own kitchen, with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top to allow even air circulation around the chicken.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the skin crisp up and allows seasonings to adhere better.
- Brush the chicken thighs with olive oil on both sides. Generously season with salt and pepper, ensuring even coverage.
- Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up on the wire rack, leaving space between each piece to ensure even cooking and crispy skin.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- During the last 15-20 minutes of cooking, generously brush the chicken with BBQ sauce, turning and basting every 5 minutes to create a glossy, caramelized exterior.
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
- Serve hot, with additional BBQ sauce on the side if desired. Pair with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, coleslaw, or mashed potatoes.
Tips
- Pat the chicken dry thoroughly - this is the secret to achieving crispy, golden skin that's packed with flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked. The internal temperature should always reach 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Don't rush the BBQ sauce application. Layering and basting during the last 15-20 minutes creates a beautiful caramelized exterior.
- Allow the chicken to rest after cooking. This crucial step helps redistribute the juices, keeping the meat incredibly moist and tender.
- For extra flavor, consider using a homemade or high-quality store-bought BBQ sauce with complex flavor profiles.
- If you want crispy skin, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. Ensure there's space between each chicken thigh for even air circulation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 500kcal
Carbohydrates: 36g
Protein: 21g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 90mg
