Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs
Tender, savory baked chicken thighs brushed with sticky BBQ sauce and finished under the broiler for caramelized edges.
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 1/4 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 1/4 teaspoons onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs about 3 pounds
- 3/4 cup BBQ sauce plus extra for serving
- green onions chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly coat with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the paprika, kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, cayenne, black pepper, and brown sugar until evenly combined.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Rub the seasoning mixture under the skin and all over the outside of each thigh.
- Arrange the seasoned thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
- Brush each thigh evenly with half of the BBQ sauce. Bake for 18–20 minutes.
- Remove the pan, brush the thighs with the remaining BBQ sauce, then return to the oven and bake for about 20 more minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Switch the oven to broil and broil the thighs 2–4 minutes, watching closely, until the sauce caramelizes and edges are slightly charred.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve with extra BBQ sauce if desired.
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Aluminum Foil
- nonstick cooking spray
- Small Bowl
- Measuring Spoons
- Pastry brush
- Meat Thermometer
Notes
- Patting the skin dry helps it crisp while baking.
- Apply seasoning under the skin for more flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness.
- Watch closely while broiling to prevent burning.