Introduction
Looking for a weeknight dinner that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavor? These Sweet and Tangy BBQ Baked Chicken Thighs are the answer! This recipe combines the juicy tenderness of chicken thighs with a delightful sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, all cooked to perfection in your oven. No grill required! Prepare to impress your family and friends with this simple yet delicious dish. They’ll be begging for seconds (and the recipe!).
Making Sweet and Tangy BBQ Baked Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs provide the most flavor and moisture.
- BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade BBQ sauce. Experiment with different flavors to find your perfect sweet and tangy balance.
- Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps the sauce caramelize beautifully.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Provides the tangy element that cuts through the sweetness.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a savory depth of flavor.
- Garlic Powder: Enhances the overall taste profile.
- Onion Powder: Another flavor enhancer, complementing the garlic powder.
- Paprika: Adds color and a subtle smoky flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
- Optional: A dash of hot sauce for a little kick!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up in the oven.
- Make the BBQ Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper (and hot sauce, if using).
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large ziplock bag or a baking dish. Pour the BBQ sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably longer (up to overnight) in the refrigerator.
- Bake the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up in a baking dish lined with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Bake and Baste: Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the chicken with the remaining BBQ sauce mixture every 15 minutes during the last half of the baking time. This will create a sticky, caramelized glaze.
- Rest and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in even more tender and flavorful chicken.
Tips for Perfectly Baked Chicken Thighs
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give the chicken thighs enough space so they can brown properly. If necessary, use two baking dishes.
- Use a meat thermometer: Ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Basting is key: Basting with the BBQ sauce creates a beautiful glaze and adds extra flavor.
- Resting is important: Allowing the chicken to rest before serving locks in the juices and prevents dryness.
Serving Suggestions
These Sweet and Tangy BBQ Baked Chicken Thighs pair perfectly with a variety of sides, including:
- Mashed potatoes
- Coleslaw
- Corn on the cob
- Baked beans
- Mac and cheese
- A simple green salad
Conclusion
These Sweet and Tangy BBQ Baked Chicken Thighs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With minimal effort and readily available ingredients, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal that everyone will love. So, ditch the takeout and try this easy recipe tonight! You won’t be disappointed.
