Description
Deliciously tender and flavorful caramelized BBQ chicken thighs cooked in the oven. Marinated with a blend of spices and avocado oil, then baked and broiled with BBQ sauce for a crispy, caramelized finish. Perfect for a satisfying dinner with a smoky, sweet glaze.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried mustard
BBQ Sauce
- 1 cup BBQ sauce, plus more for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a large sealable container, combine the chicken thighs with avocado oil, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and dried mustard. Toss everything to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight to allow flavors to develop. If short on time, you can proceed without marinating, though marinating enhances the taste.
- Preheat the oven and prepare the baking sheet: Set your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper, aluminum foil, or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Apply BBQ sauce and bake: Toss the marinated chicken thighs with 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce, leaving the remainder aside for glazing. Arrange the thighs on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring excess sauce does not drip over. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
- Flip and glaze: After 15 minutes, remove the chicken from the oven and flip each thigh over. Brush each piece generously with the reserved BBQ sauce to develop a flavorful glaze. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Broil for caramelization: Once baking is complete, increase the oven temperature to broil. Carefully flip the chicken again and brush with BBQ sauce once more to ensure an even coating. Broil for 5 to 6 minutes until the edges become crispy and nicely caramelized. Watch closely if using parchment paper to prevent burning since broiling temperatures can vary.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the chicken thighs with extra BBQ sauce on the side if desired. Enjoy the tender, smoky, and caramelized BBQ chicken!
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for at least an hour enhances the flavor, but you can skip this step if in a hurry.
- Use parchment paper, foil, or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and for easier cleanup.
- Watch closely during broiling to avoid burning, especially if using parchment paper.
- Feel free to use your favorite BBQ sauce or make a homemade version.
- Serving suggestion: Pair with coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
