Sweet and Sticky BBQ Chicken Thighs

The aroma of chicken thighs sizzling in the oven, coated in a sweet and sticky BBQ sauce, is simply irresistible. This recipe for Sweet and Sticky BBQ Chicken Thighs is a crowd-pleasing dish that takes only about an hour to prepare and cook. The secret lies in the marinade, which infuses each thigh with delicious flavors, ensuring they are juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. It’s suitable for families, gatherings with friends, or anyone who loves BBQ. For convenience, you can marinate the chicken the night before to enhance the flavor even further!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The high cooking temperature guarantees a crispy exterior.
• Chicken thighs remain juicy and tender throughout the cooking process.
• A simple marinade requires no advanced cooking techniques.
• The BBQ sauce caramelizes beautifully, creating a delightful glaze.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to make your Sweet and Sticky BBQ Chicken Thighs.

For the Chicken

• 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

For the Sauce

• 1 cup BBQ sauce

Avocado oil can be substituted with olive oil.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Chicken thighs can be replaced with drumsticks.
• BBQ sauce can be homemade or store-bought.
• Smoked paprika can be replaced with regular paprika.
• Dried mustard may be swapped for Dijon mustard.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to create your sticky BBQ chicken thighs.

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. Make sure every piece is coated evenly. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour or, for best flavor, overnight.

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help create a crispy exterior. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Prepare and Bake

After marinating, toss the chicken thighs with 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce until well-coated. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart for even cooking. Bake for 15 minutes, until the edges start to turn golden brown.

Flip and Brush

Carefully flip each thigh over using tongs. Brush with more reserved BBQ sauce, then return to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, watching for the sauce to bubble and caramelize.

Broil

After baking, increase the oven heat to broil. Flip the chicken again and brush with additional BBQ sauce. Broil for 5-6 minutes until the chicken is crispy and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve warm with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping if desired.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Yes, for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheat: Microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the chicken is marinated well for maximum flavor.
• Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
• Allowing the chicken to rest helps retain juices.
• Keep an eye on the broiler to avoid burning the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with coleslaw and cornbread for a classic BBQ meal.
• Serve alongside grilled vegetables for a lighter option.
• Enjoy with a fresh garden salad for a quick dinner.