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Barbecue chicken is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary tradition steeped in history, evoking the warmth of family gatherings, summer picnics, and backyard cookouts. Its popularity spans cultures and continents, bringing people together over a shared love for those smoky, tangy flavors that dance on the palate. The sweet and smoky oven-baked BBQ chicken recipe we’re about to explore takes this beloved classic to new heights, combining succulent chicken thighs with a rich, flavorful sauce that’s sure to satisfy any craving.

Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken – Sweet & Smoky!

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Sweet & Smoky Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken recipe. Perfect for family gatherings or a casual dinner, this dish features juicy chicken thighs coated in a homemade BBQ sauce that balances sweetness and smokiness. Elevate your cooking with a simple spice rub, and achieve crispy, caramelized skin in the oven. Pair it with classic sides like coleslaw and cornbread for a deliciously satisfying meal that brings people together.
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Ingredients
  

4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for maximum flavor)

1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or your favorite store-bought)

1 tablespoon brown sugar

1 tablespoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking dish lined with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

    Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the skin get crispy.

      Make the Spice Rub: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

        Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, add the chicken thighs and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well-coated.

          Sweeten the Sauce: In another bowl, mix the BBQ sauce with brown sugar. This will enhance the sweetness and create a beautiful glaze when baked.

            Assemble: Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the prepared baking dish, skin side up. Brush generously with the sweet BBQ sauce mixture, reserving some sauce for basting later.

              Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes, basting the chicken with additional sauce every 10-15 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is caramelized and crispy.

                Broil: For an extra touch of caramelization, switch to the broiler for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

                  Rest & Serve: Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

                    Enjoy!: Serve your sweet and smoky BBQ chicken with coleslaw, cornbread, or your favorite side dishes.

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 55 minutes | 4 servings