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Caramelized BBQ Chicken Thighs in the Oven Recipe

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4.2 from 11 reviews

This recipe features tender, boneless skinless chicken thighs marinated in a blend of spices and avocado oil, then baked and broiled in the oven with a rich caramelized BBQ sauce glaze. The chicken develops a crispy, flavorful exterior while remaining juicy on the inside, making it an easy and delicious dish perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

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

  1. Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken thighs to a large sealable container with avocado oil, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and dried mustard. Toss everything well to coat the chicken evenly. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight to allow flavors to penetrate the meat.
  2. Preheat the oven and prepare baking sheet: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper, aluminum foil, or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
  3. Coat chicken with BBQ sauce and arrange: Toss the marinated chicken thighs with 1/4 cup of the BBQ sauce, reserving the rest. Space the chicken evenly on the prepared baking sheet, leaving excess sauce behind.
  4. Bake the chicken: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. This initial baking begins cooking the chicken while setting the marinade flavors.
  5. Flip and brush with BBQ sauce: Remove the chicken from the oven and flip each thigh. Brush each piece generously with reserved BBQ sauce. Return to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes to deepen the flavor and cook through.
  6. Broil for caramelization: Increase the oven heat to broil. Flip the chicken once more and brush them again with BBQ sauce to coat thoroughly. Broil for 5-6 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning, until the edges are crispy and the chicken is fully cooked and caramelized.
  7. Serve and enjoy: Remove from the oven and serve immediately with extra BBQ sauce on the side if desired. Enjoy your flavorful, juicy caramelized BBQ chicken thighs!

Notes

  • Marinating overnight improves flavor but is optional if short on time.
  • Use parchment paper during broiling with caution as it can burn; aluminum foil or silicone mats are safer options.
  • Ensure chicken thighs are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
  • Adjust BBQ sauce quantity to taste and spiciness preference.
  • Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheated gently.