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Easy Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs for Juicy Weeknight Dinners

Close-up of four pieces of perfectly cooked, glazed bbq chicken thighs with a rich, dark, caramelized crust.

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Make tender, juicy BBQ chicken thighs in the oven. This simple recipe delivers sticky, sweet, and savory flavor perfect for a quick weeknight meal or summer cookout.

Ingredients

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  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 cup your favorite sweet and smoky BBQ sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Line a baking sheet with foil for easier cleanup.
  2. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry using paper towels. This step helps the skin crisp.
  3. In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika to create the dry rub.
  4. Rub the olive oil over all surfaces of the chicken thighs. Sprinkle the dry rub evenly over the chicken, pressing it lightly onto the skin and under the skin where possible.
  5. Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
  6. Bake for 25 minutes.
  7. Remove the pan from the oven. Brush a generous layer of BBQ sauce over the top of each thigh.
  8. Return the chicken to the oven and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) and the sauce is caramelized and sticky.
  9. Let the chicken rest on the pan for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For extra crispy skin, switch the oven to the broiler setting for the last 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning the sauce.
  • If you prefer chicken breasts, follow the same steps, but adjust the initial baking time to 20 minutes before saucing, and the final baking time to 10-12 minutes.
  • Use a high-quality, thick BBQ sauce for the best sticky glaze.

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