Name: Caramelized BBQ Chicken Thighs in the Oven Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h 20 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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; 1 cup BBQ sauce, plus more for serving

Jump to Recipe·4 from 53 reviews

If you’ve been dreaming of that perfectly sticky, flavorful barbecue chicken but don’t have a grill handy, you are going to love this Caramelized BBQ Chicken Thighs in the Oven Recipe. These chicken thighs are marinated with a blend of spices, coated in your favorite BBQ sauce, and baked to tender, juicy perfection with a mouthwatering caramelized glaze. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that is naturally gluten free and can be made dairy free or Whole30/paleo friendly, delivering big flavor without any fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a clear glass rectangular dish filled with raw chicken pieces neatly layered to cover the bottom. The chicken is pale pink with some white fat visible. On top, there is a mix of colorful spices: red paprika powder mostly on the right and center, black coarse pepper in small piles near the top center, and white salt spread around. There is also a yellow mustard-like powder scattered lightly, and a light greenish olive oil layer coats the chicken at the base. The dish sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is half the joy of making this dish, and fortunately, you only need a handful of pantry staples that come together to create a sensational flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays its role, from tenderizing the meat to adding layers of smoky, spicy goodness and that irresistible caramelized finish.

2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs: These are perfect for juicy, tender meat that soaks up the marinade incredibly well.
2 tablespoons avocado oil: A healthy oil that helps everything stick and browns the chicken beautifully without smoking.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors and seasoning the meat thoroughly.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and balances the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a deep savory note without overpowering the other spices.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Contributes mild sweetness and depth to the marinade.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: This is your secret to that smoky, BBQ flavor without a grill.
1/2 teaspoon dried mustard: Adds a subtle tang and complexity to the seasoning blend.
1 cup BBQ sauce, plus more for serving: The star of the show for that sticky, caramelized coating that everyone craves—use your favorite brand or homemade sauce.

How to Make Caramelized BBQ Chicken Thighs in the Oven Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by tossing the chicken thighs in avocado oil and the full blend of spices—kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and dried mustard. This simple marinade infuses the chicken with tons of flavor and helps to tenderize the meat. Place everything in a large sealable container and refrigerate for at least an hour or up to overnight to let those flavors really soak in. If you’re pressed for time, don’t worry—this step is flexible, and the recipe still works well even without the marinating.

Step 2: Prepare the Oven and Chicken

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, aluminum foil, or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup. Toss the marinated chicken thighs with about 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce, saving the rest for later. This initial coating starts the caramelization process and ensures every bite bursts with tangy, smoky BBQ flavor.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave any excess BBQ sauce behind. Bake for 15 minutes, then flip each piece to ensure even cooking. Brush them generously with more BBQ sauce before popping them back into the oven for another 10 minutes. This is where the sticky magic really begins.

Step 4: Broil for Perfect Caramelization

To get that signature caramelized finish, remove the chicken from the oven and increase the temperature to broil. Carefully flip the chicken thighs again and brush on a final coat of BBQ sauce. Broil for 5-6 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning (especially if using parchment paper), until the edges become deliciously crisp and the chicken is cooked through.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once your chicken is beautifully caramelized and juicy, it’s ready to be served. Add extra BBQ sauce on the side if you like, and prepare to savor some of the best oven-baked BBQ chicken you’ve ever enjoyed. It’s just as tasty as anything off the grill, with way less hassle.

How to Serve Caramelized BBQ Chicken Thighs in the Oven Recipe

A white bowl filled with a base layer of white rice, topped with bright yellow corn pieces scattered around. On one side, there are thin slices of light green avocado and some pale green shredded cabbage. Next to that, vibrant pink pickled onion ribbons add a splash of color. In the center, several grilled chicken slices with a dark brown, slightly charred glaze lay in a row, covered in a creamy light green sauce and sprinkled with fresh green herbs. A silver fork rests on the chicken, and a wedge of bright green lime sits near the edge of the bowl. A woman's hand is visible holding the bowl on the side, all set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Keep your garnishes simple to let the rich flavors of the chicken shine through. Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness, while a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds can introduce a subtle crunch and nutty contrast. For a little zing, a wedge of lime or lemon squeezed on top brightens each bite beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Caramelized BBQ Chicken Thighs in the Oven Recipe pairs wonderfully with classic BBQ sides. Creamy coleslaw or a fresh green salad offers a crisp balance, while roasted or grilled vegetables bring warmth and earthiness. For a heartier meal, garlic mashed potatoes, roasted sweet potatoes, or fluffy rice are fantastic options to soak up that luscious BBQ sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to elevate presentation without effort, serve the chicken on a rustic wooden board alongside bowls of your favorite side dishes. Alternatively, shred the meat and toss it into tacos, sliders, or over a bed of greens for a BBQ salad. The sticky, caramelized bits make every bite memorable and enjoyable in lots of different styles.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover caramelized BBQ chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The chicken stays moist and flavorful, making it ideal for quick meals or tasty lunches the next day.

Freezing

If you want to keep the chicken longer, it freezes beautifully. Place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your chicken gently in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, warming it in the microwave works well for a quick fix; just add a splash of water or reserved BBQ sauce to keep it juicy.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs for this recipe?

Absolutely! Bone-in thighs will take a bit longer to cook, so increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes and check for doneness with a meat thermometer. The bone adds extra flavor and moisture, giving you even more juicy results.

Do I need to marinate the chicken overnight?

While overnight marinating intensifies the flavors, it’s not necessary. Even an hour of marination allows the spices to penetrate and tenderize the meat well. If you’re in a rush, feel free to skip ahead to cooking for a tasty meal in less time.

What type of BBQ sauce works best?

Use your favorite BBQ sauce whether it’s sweet, smoky, spicy, or tangy. A thicker sauce tends to caramelize better in the oven, but any style will do. Homemade or store-bought, the sauce is what brings the dish to life.

Can I make this recipe Whole30 or paleo?

Yes! Choose a compliant BBQ sauce without added sugars or soy, and you’ve got a Whole30 and paleo friendly meal. Avocado oil and spices are naturally compliant, making this recipe versatile and diet-friendly.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part of a thigh and check that the juices run clear with no pink remaining.

Final Thoughts

This Caramelized BBQ Chicken Thighs in the Oven Recipe is a wonderful go-to for an effortless, crowd-pleasing meal with all the smoky, sticky BBQ goodness you crave—no grilling skills required. I can’t recommend it enough for busy weeknights or casual weekend dinners. Once you try it, you’ll keep coming back to this simple yet irresistible recipe that turns ordinary chicken into something spectacular.