These Caramelized BBQ Chicken Thighs are simply mouthwatering! With a beautiful glaze made from BBQ sauce and a sweet touch, they’re perfect for any dinner.
What makes these thighs so great? They cook up tender and juicy, making it hard to stop at just one! I love serving them with some rice or veggies for a full meal. Yum!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are the best choice for juiciness and flavor. If you prefer, you can use boneless thighs, but they might cook faster, so adjust the baking time accordingly.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce or make your own for a personal touch. If you’re looking for a lower-sugar option, consider a sugar-free BBQ sauce.
Brown Sugar: It adds a nice sweetness and helps caramelize the chicken. You can substitute it with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor, but adjust the quantity slightly since they are sweeter.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a lovely depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works too, but you’ll miss that smoky note. Garlic and onion powders are essential for layering flavor; they can be swapped with fresh minced garlic and onions, just use more.
How Do I Get the Chicken Skin Extra Crispy?
Getting that crispy skin on your chicken thighs is key! Start by drying them well with paper towels before marinating. The moisture is a big enemy of crispiness!
- Make sure to bake the chicken on a wire rack. This allows hot air to circulate around the thighs, getting all surfaces crispy.
- Marinating ahead of time not only enhances flavor but also helps with texture. For best results, let it marinate for several hours.
- If you want extra crispiness at the end, broiling the chicken for a couple of minutes before serving adds that final crunch. Just keep a close watch to prevent burning.
Caramelized BBQ Chicken Thighs in the Oven
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. You’ll need to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, while longer marination will enhance the flavor. Overall, expect to spend about 1 hour, including all preparations and cooking time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C), so it’s hot and ready when your chicken is prepared. This helps the skin get perfectly crispy!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken thighs and rinse them under cold water. Then, pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. If there’s any extra fat or skin, feel free to trim it off. This makes the chicken healthier and helps with even cooking.
3. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is combined into a delicious marinade.
4. Marinate the Chicken:
Place your chicken thighs in a large bowl or use a zip-lock bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each thigh is fully coated. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, refrigerating it for a few hours will make it even tastier!
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easier cleanup and place a wire rack on top. This allows the heat to circulate, making the chicken crispy. Lay the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up on the wire rack.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes. You want the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the skin to be beautifully caramelized and crispy. A meat thermometer is handy for this step!
7. Glaze and Broil (Optional):
If you want an extra layer of flavor, brush some more BBQ sauce on top of the chicken and turn on the broiler. Broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching it closely to avoid burning.
8. Rest and Serve:
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to settle. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness!
Enjoy your delicious caramelized BBQ chicken thighs! They’re perfect for any gathering or a cozy family meal.
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs! Just reduce the baking time to about 20-25 minutes, checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Boneless pieces tend to cook faster than bone-in, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
What If I Don’t Have BBQ Sauce?
No worries! If you don’t have BBQ sauce, you can make a quick substitute by mixing ketchup, honey, vinegar, and your favorite spices. For a spicy kick, you can also add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to your homemade BBQ sauce mix!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the thighs in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This will help keep the skin nice and crispy.
Can I Grill These Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! If you prefer grilling, marinate the chicken thighs as instructed, then preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach the desired internal temperature. This method will give the chicken a nice smoky flavor and char!
