Perfectly Baked Bbq Chicken Thighs: A Step-By-Step Guide

Baked BBQ chicken thighs are a delicious, juicy, and easy-to-make meal. Perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is full of flavour and has a crispy skin and tender meat. The key to this recipe is the BBQ sauce – you can make your own or use a store-bought version – which is basted over the chicken multiple times to create a thick, sticky, sweet glaze.

How to make a simple seasoning rub

A simple seasoning rub is key to achieving juicy and flavourful BBQ baked chicken thighs. The rub is a dry mixture of spices that is generously applied to the chicken before baking. Here is a step-by-step guide to making a simple seasoning rub:

Ingredients:

• Salt
• Pepper
• Garlic Powder
• Onion Powder
• Paprika
• Olive Oil (optional)

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Mix the spices together until they are well blended. You can adjust the quantities of each spice to your taste preferences. If you want a spicier rub, you can add more pepper or include some cayenne pepper.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Before applying the rub, it is important to pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Do not rinse the chicken, as this can spread harmful bacteria. You can also trim any excess fat from the chicken at this stage.

Step 3: Apply the Rub

Now, it's time to apply the seasoning rub! Use your hands to generously coat the chicken thighs with the spice mixture. Make sure to rub the seasoning all over the chicken, even under the skin. Get in there! You want every inch of that chicken covered in delicious spices.

Step 4: Let the Rub Marinate (Optional)

At this point, you have the option to let the rub marinate on the chicken for extra flavour. Cover the seasoned chicken and place it in the refrigerator for anywhere from 15 minutes to 24 hours. The longer it sits, the more time the spices have to work their magic and infuse the chicken with flavour.

Step 5: Bake and Enjoy!

Once you're ready to bake the chicken, preheat your oven to around 400°F. Arrange the chicken thighs on a baking sheet, skin side up. Brush the chicken with a layer of barbecue sauce, and then it's into the oven they go!

Bake the chicken for about 20 minutes, and then baste with more sauce. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.

And there you have it! A simple, juicy, and mouthwatering BBQ baked chicken dinner, made extra delicious with a few spices and a whole lot of love. Enjoy!

How to make a homemade BBQ sauce

Ingredients

• Ketchup
• Brown sugar
• Unfiltered apple cider vinegar
• Worcestershire sauce
• Regular sweet paprika
• Salt

Instructions

Add the ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and pepper to a medium saucepan over low heat. Whisk the ingredients together, then increase the heat to medium. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cook until the sugar has fully dissolved and the sauce has slightly thickened (about 5 minutes).

Tips

• You can add a couple of drops of liquid smoke to the sauce for a hickory flavour.
• For a healthier option, use skinless chicken thighs.
• You can marinate the chicken in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

How to prepare the chicken for cooking

Preparing the chicken is a crucial step in ensuring your BBQ chicken thighs turn out juicy and flavourful. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you prepare the chicken like a pro:

• Select the Right Cut of Chicken: For the juiciest and most tender BBQ chicken, opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. Dark meat, such as chicken thighs and legs, tends to be harder to overcook and is generally more flavourful and juicy than white meat. However, if you prefer chicken breasts, go for bone-in and skin-on for a moister outcome.
• Trimming and Cleaning: Before you begin marinating or seasoning, trim any excess fat or skin from the chicken thighs. It is not recommended to wash raw chicken, as it can spread harmful bacteria. Instead, use paper towels to pat the chicken dry, removing any moisture.
• Marinating: While some recipes suggest a dry rub of spices, others recommend a marinade for added flavour and juiciness. If you choose to marinate, place the chicken in a large bowl or a zip-lock bag. Add your chosen marinade, ensuring the chicken is well-coated. Refrigerate and let the chicken marinate for at least an hour, or even overnight, for maximum flavour.
• Seasoning: If you prefer a dry rub, combine your chosen spices, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne, in a small bowl. Generously rub this mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get under the skin as well.
• Baking Preparation: Preheat your oven to the temperature specified in your recipe—typically between 400°F and 425°F. Line a baking sheet with aluminium foil or parchment paper to catch any drippings and make cleanup easier. You can also use a wire rack placed on the baking sheet to elevate the chicken and ensure even cooking.
• Basting: Some recipes call for basting the chicken with BBQ sauce before baking, while others suggest brushing the sauce on halfway through the cooking process or after the chicken is cooked. Follow your recipe's instructions for the best results.

Remember, preparing the chicken is a crucial step in achieving mouthwatering BBQ chicken thighs. Don't skip any steps, and always ensure your chicken is thoroughly cooked before serving. Enjoy your delicious, homemade BBQ feast!

How to cook the chicken in the oven

Preparation

To make juicy and tender BBQ chicken thighs, you can marinate the chicken in a dry rub or seasoning a few hours or up to 24 hours before baking. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and rub in the seasoning all over the chicken, under the skin as well. You can use a simple seasoning of salt and pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, or a BBQ rub.

Baking

Preheat the oven to between 400-425°F. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, then flip the chicken and baste with BBQ sauce. Bake for another 15-20 minutes.

Broiling

Turn on the broiler and brush the chicken with more sauce. Broil the chicken for 2-5 minutes or until the sauce is caramelized and slightly charred.

Serving

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve with extra sauce on the side, if desired.

How to store and reheat leftovers

When you have leftover baked BBQ chicken thighs, proper storage and reheating are key to ensuring food safety and maintaining the best quality. Here's a guide to help you do it right:

Storing Leftovers:

• Let the chicken cool: Before storing, allow the baked BBQ chicken thighs to cool down to room temperature. Storing hot food can create a favorable environment for bacteria to grow.
• Portion and pack: Divide the leftover chicken into shallow, airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids are ideal. You can also use heavy-duty aluminum foil or plastic wrap to cover the containers securely.
• Refrigerate: Place the containers in the refrigerator. Leftover baked BBQ chicken thighs should be stored at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below. Make sure your refrigerator is set to the correct temperature to ensure food safety.

Storing Time:

Optimal freshness: For the best quality and texture, aim to consume or freeze the leftover chicken within 2 to 3 days of cooking. This will ensure the chicken retains its moisture and flavor.

Freezing Leftovers:

• Freeze promptly: If you intend to freeze the leftover chicken, do so as soon as possible after cooking. Place the containers in the freezer, where they will keep for up to 2 to 3 months.
• Labeling: Don't forget to label and date the containers before freezing. This helps you keep track of how long the chicken has been frozen and ensures you consume it within a safe timeframe.

Reheating Leftovers:

• Oven method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Place the leftover chicken thighs in an oven-safe dish, adding a little bit of BBQ sauce or chicken broth to keep them moist. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and heat for about 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
• Stovetop method: You can also reheat the chicken in a covered saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of BBQ sauce or chicken broth to the pan and heat gently, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is warmed through.
• Safety note: Ensure the chicken is reheated to a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to eliminate any harmful bacteria. Use a food thermometer to check the temperature at the thickest part of the meat.

Remember to handle leftovers with care and store and reheat them properly to enjoy your baked BBQ chicken thighs safely and deliciously for several more meals!

Frequently asked questions