Oven BBQ Chicken Thighs
User Reviews
5
Oven BBQ Chicken Thighs
Description
Oven BBQ Chicken Thighs combine a balanced dry rub of brown sugar, chili powder, kosher salt, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder to season boneless, skinless chicken thighs. The chicken is brought to room temperature and patted dry before applying the rub thoroughly. Baking the chicken uncovered at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, with basting of barbecue sauce in the last 5-10 minutes, develops a moist and flavorful interior with a slightly caramelized exterior. An optional broil step can add a crisp, charred finish, enhancing texture and flavor.
The chicken cooks without flipping, and it is important to remove it when the internal temperature reaches 165°F and juices run clear. After resting 5-10 minutes, the chicken can be served with additional BBQ sauce on the side. The spice blend and method provide a good balance of savory, smoky, and sweet notes.
This recipe adapts well to larger or smaller quantities by adjusting seasoning and sauce accordingly, making it convenient for families or gatherings. The straightforward preparation, with the option to broil for extra texture, results in a dish suitable for casual dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs. chicken thigh trimmed, boneless skinless
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar packed
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ cup barbecue sauce plus extra for serving
Instructions
- Let the chicken sit on the counter and come to room temperature for about 30 minutes while you preheat the oven and prepare the rest of the ingredients. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a large, rimmed baking sheet or a roasting pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Pat the chicken very dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, stir together the brown sugar, chili powder, kosher salt, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Rub the seasoning mixture all over both sides of the chicken. Place the chicken on the prepared pan.
- Bake the chicken thighs uncovered for 20-25 minutes, basting with the bbq sauce during the final 5-10 minutes. Remove the chicken from the oven when the juices run clear and an instant-read thermometer registers 165°F. For a more charred, crispy finish, transfer the chicken to the broiler for a few minutes at the very end. Just keep a close eye on it; the chicken can burn easily.
- Allow the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Serve with additional bbq sauce, if desired.
Notes
- The chicken thighs do not need to be flipped during cooking to achieve even doneness.
- Adjust the quantity of dry rub and barbecue sauce proportionally to scale the recipe for larger or smaller groups.
- Allow chicken to rest after baking to retain juices before serving.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4people
Amount Per Serving
Calories 352 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1/4 of the recipe (about 2 thighs) | |
| Calories | 352kcal | 18% |
| Carbohydrates | 19g | 6% |
| Protein | 44g | 88% |
| Fat | 10g | 15% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2g | 12% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Trans Fat | 0.04g | 2% |
| Cholesterol | 215mg | 72% |
| Sodium | 2349mg | 98% |
| Potassium | 699mg | 15% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 15g | 30% |
| Vitamin A | 854IU | 17% |
| Vitamin C | 0.3mg | 0% |
| Calcium | 47mg | 5% |
| Iron | 3mg | 17% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.