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caramelized-bbq-chicken-thighs----quick--juicy-and-tender_feature

Caramelized BBQ Chicken Thighs - Quick Juicy Oven-Baked Recipe

These caramelized BBQ chicken thighs are incredibly juicy and perfectly caramelized, ready in just 35 minutes with a sweet and savory sticky glaze. The easy sheet pan method makes this a perfect weeknight dinner solution with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
  • 1/2 cup your favorite BBQ sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
  3. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the skin get extra crispy. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil.
  4. Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they're not touching each other.
  5. Brush about half of the BBQ sauce mixture generously over the chicken thighs, making sure to coat them evenly.
  6. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove from oven and brush with the remaining sauce mixture. Return to oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the sauce is beautifully caramelized.
  7. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Notes

For extra crispy skin: Place chicken on a wire rack over baking sheet. Apply sauce in two stages to prevent burning while achieving perfect caramelization. Let chicken rest 5 minutes before serving for juicier results.