- BBQ sauce (ensure it’s suitable for oven cooking to avoid burning)
- Garlic cloves (3-4), minced
- Onion (1 medium), sliced
- Lemon juice (2 tbsp) [use fresh for best results]
- Olive oil (1/4 cup)
- Salt (to taste, about 1 tsp)
- Black pepper (to taste, about 1/2 tsp)
- Paprika (1 tsp) [optional but enhances flavor]
- Brown sugar (1 tbsp) [helps caramelize the skin]
- Thyme or rosemary sprigs (a few pieces) [for added aroma and flavor]
Use these ingredients to create a mouth-watering BBQ chicken thighs dish. Optimize your meal prep by marinating the chicken overnight in the refrigerator, allowing flavors to meld together for better taste. Preheat your oven at 375°F (190°C) before placing the seasoned chicken thighs inside.
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Steps
### How to Make Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs: A Delicious Recipe
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce
#### Equipment:
- Baking sheet
- Aluminum foil
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs or spatula
### Step-by-Step Guide to Making BBQ Chicken Thighs in the Oven
1. **Preheat Your Oven**
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C) before you start preparing the chicken.
2. **Season the Chicken Thighs**
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, and cayenne pepper if using.
- Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss them until they are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
3. **Prepare the Baking Sheet**
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs on the baking sheet, making sure not to overcrowd them.
4. **Apply BBQ Sauce**
- Drizzle the barbecue sauce over each chicken thigh, ensuring they are well coated.
- Use tongs or a spatula to flip the chicken thighs once, so both sides get a bit of the sauce.
5. **Bake in the Oven**
- Place the baking sheet with chicken thighs into the preheated oven.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice caramelized crust on top.
6. **Check for Doneness**
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F (74°C).
- Alternatively, you can check by gently pressing the chicken; it should feel firm with no pink color inside.
7. **Rest and Serve**
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
### Tips for Perfect BBQ Chicken Thighs
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoning mixture for at least an hour or overnight.
- Use high-quality barbecue sauce for better taste.
- Adjust the heat level by reducing cayenne pepper according to your preference.
By following these steps and tips, you'll be able to make oven-baked BBQ chicken thighs that are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. Enjoy your delicious meal!
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