This recipe features bone-in or boneless chicken thighs seasoned simply, baked until juicy, then brushed generously with barbecue sauce. As they cook, the sauce thickens and caramelizes, creating a glossy, finger-licking finish. The result is tender meat with a rich BBQ flavor that pairs well with classic sides.
2½ pounds chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on or boneless)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite style)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Set your oven to 400°F (205°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line a sheet pan with foil for easy cleanup.
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Rub them with olive oil, then season evenly with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Place the thighs skin-side up in the prepared baking dish, leaving a little space between each piece so they roast evenly.
Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the skin to begin crisping.
Remove the dish from the oven and brush a generous layer of barbecue sauce over each thigh.
Place the chicken back in the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until the sauce thickens and caramelizes and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep the meat juicy and flavorful.