These caramelized BBQ chicken thighs are a sweet and savory treat! Baked in the oven, they get beautifully sticky and juicy, making for a perfect weeknight dinner.
Honestly, I love how easy it is to whip up this dish. Just pop them in the oven and let the magic happen. Serve them with some rice or veggies for a complete meal! 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in and skin-on chicken thighs are perfect for juicy, tender results. If you’re looking for a lighter option, feel free to use skinless thighs or drumsticks instead, but keep an eye on cooking time to prevent drying out.
Barbecue Sauce: You can use your favorite store-bought sauce or make your own for a personal touch. For a spicier kick, try a hot barbecue sauce or mix in some hot sauce into your favorite variety.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. If you don’t have it, white sugar works in a pinch, or use honey for an interesting twist, just reduce the amount slightly as honey is sweeter!
Spices: Smoked paprika brings a nice depth of flavor. If you want to avoid it, regular paprika or a dash of cayenne for heat can also work. Garlic and onion powder are easy to swap out for fresh minced garlic or onion if you prefer.
How Do I Sear Chicken Thighs for the Perfect Crispy Skin?
Searing the chicken thighs is crucial for achieving that crispy, golden skin. It’s a quick step but needs your attention. Here’s how you can do it right:
- Start with a hot skillet! Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is shimmering, place the chicken thighs skin-side down without crowding the pan. This helps them cook evenly.
- Sear for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Don’t forget to peek; if it’s sticking, it’s not ready yet!
- Carefully flip the thighs, then remove the skillet from heat. The initial sizzle helps lock in moisture and flavor!
How to Make Caramelized BBQ Chicken Thighs in the Oven
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 6 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice)
For the Spice Rub:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then about 30-35 minutes to cook in the oven. So, you’ll be enjoying your delicious caramelized BBQ chicken in approximately 45-50 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help get that lovely golden brown on your chicken.
2. Make the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. This will be your flavorful spice rub!
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the skin get crispy! Now, rub that spice mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring both sides are coated nicely.
4. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken thighs in the skillet, skin-side down. Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Then, carefully flip the thighs over and take the skillet off the heat.
5. Add Barbecue Sauce:
Now it’s time to brush that delicious barbecue sauce on top of each seared chicken thigh. Make sure to be generous for maximum flavor!
6. Bake the Chicken:
Transfer your skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). That’s when it’s done and safe to eat!
7. Broil for Extra Caramelization:
If you like your BBQ chicken extra caramelized, turn on the broiler and cook the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn—baking is easier than broiling!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take the skillet out of the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This step helps keep it juicy. Finally, garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your juicy, caramelized BBQ chicken thighs!
Can I Use Skinless Chicken Thighs in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! However, keep in mind that skinless thighs will not get as crispy. Adjust the cooking time slightly, checking for doneness at around 20-25 minutes, as skinless thighs may cook faster.
What If I Don’t Have Barbecue Sauce?
No worries! You can use any type of sauce you like, such as sweet and sour sauce, teriyaki sauce, or even a homemade mixture of ketchup, vinegar, and spices. Just be sure to adjust any additional seasoning if your substitute sauce is already flavorful!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes to keep the skin crispy, or in the microwave for a quicker option, though it may lose some texture.
Can I Make This Recipe on the Grill Instead?
Absolutely! Preheat your grill to medium-high, then follow the same steps for seasoning. After searing the thighs on the grill for about 5 minutes on each side, brush with barbecue sauce and continue grilling over indirect heat until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), about 20-25 minutes. Enjoy that smoky flavor!
