Description
Juicy, oven-baked BBQ chicken thighs that are tender, saucy, and perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 6 medium thighs)
- ⅓ cup BBQ sauce, divided
- Non-stick cooking spray or oil for baking sheet
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon table salt
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil; lightly coat with cooking spray or oil.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
- Whisk together smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, table salt, and cayenne (if using) in a small bowl.
- Sprinkle the spice mix generously over both sides of each thigh.
- Optional: Toss thighs with 2–3 tablespoons of BBQ sauce and let rest for 15–30 minutes.
- Arrange thighs on the baking sheet in a single layer and bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove the tray, brush with remaining BBQ sauce, and return to the oven to bake for another 10–15 minutes.
- Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before removing from the oven.
- Let the thighs rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra sticky glaze, brush a final thin coat of sauce after resting and warm briefly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American