There’s nothing quite like tender, juicy chicken thighs coated in smoky, caramelized BBQ sauce.
This oven-baked BBQ chicken recipe is simple, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend cookouts—without the need for a grill.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The chicken is seasoned with a smoky-spiced rub for deep flavor.
It’s oven-baked for ease, yet still juicy and tender.
BBQ sauce caramelizes beautifully under the broiler, creating that classic sticky finish.
Pairs well with all your favorite sides—cornbread, coleslaw, or baked beans.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Chicken thighs – bone-in, skin-on for maximum flavor and juiciness.
BBQ sauce – sweet, smoky, and tangy; use your favorite brand or homemade.
Smoked paprika & chili powder – bring warmth and smoky depth.
Garlic and onion powder – classic seasoning for bold flavor.
Salt & pepper – simple but essential for balance.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Pat the chicken dry before seasoning—this helps the spices stick.
For more flavor, rub some seasoning under the skin.
Bake skin side down first for crispness, then flip for even cooking.
Broil at the end for a caramelized BBQ finish.
How to Make Oven BBQ Chicken
Step 1 – Preheat and prepare
Heat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
Step 2 – Mix the rub
In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 3 – Season the chicken
Pat chicken dry. Rub spice mix all over the thighs, including under the skin if possible.
Place skin side down on the pan.
Step 4 – Bake and sauce
Bake for 20 minutes. Remove from oven, brush with BBQ sauce, flip, and brush the other side.
Bake 5 minutes more.
Step 5 – Finish baking
Brush with BBQ sauce again, return to oven, and bake 5–10 more minutes until cooked through (165°F minimum, 175°F for extra tender thighs).
Step 6 – Optional broil
Broil for 1–2 minutes to caramelize the sauce.
Rest chicken 5 minutes before serving with extra BBQ sauce.
What to Serve Them With
Classic sides like mashed potatoes, mac & cheese, or coleslaw.
Serve with cornbread and baked beans for a BBQ-inspired feast.
Pair with a crisp green salad for a lighter option.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap chicken thighs for drumsticks or bone-in breasts.
Use spicy BBQ sauce for more heat or honey BBQ for extra sweetness.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the rub for a fiery kick.
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to keep skin crisp.
Freeze cooked chicken (without extra sauce) for up to 2 months.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, but reduce cooking time by about 10 minutes since boneless cooks faster.
Do I have to broil at the end?
No, but broiling adds a caramelized, sticky BBQ finish that’s delicious.
Can I make this with homemade BBQ sauce?
Absolutely! Homemade sauce works beautifully in this recipe.
What’s the best internal temp for chicken thighs?
Cook to at least 165°F, but thighs stay tender even up to 175°F.
Can I prep ahead?
Yes, season and refrigerate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance.
How do I keep it from drying out?
Stick with bone-in, skin-on thighs—they naturally stay juicier.
Final Thoughts
This oven BBQ chicken delivers bold flavor and juicy tenderness without the grill.
It’s an easy, reliable recipe that works for family dinners or casual entertaining.
Once you try it, it will become a regular on your menu.
My name is Isabella, and this space was born from years of stirring sauces at sunset, baking cookies while the kids played on the porch, and finding comfort in a homemade meal after long, busy days. Here you’ll find delicious, reliable recipes made with simple ingredients, plus easy step-by-step photos and videos to help you cook confidently at home.