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BBQ Chicken Thighs

These BBQ chicken thighs are juicy, smoky, and coated in a rich, sticky barbecue glaze. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are seasoned with bold spices, seared until golden, then finished with your favorite BBQ sauce for a flavorful dinner that's ready in just 35 minutes. It's an easy high-protein meal that's perfect for weeknights, cookouts, or family dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: dinner, lounch
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 1½ pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup barbecue sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Rub the chicken thighs with olive oil, then coat them evenly with the seasoning mixture.
  5. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
  6. Sear the chicken thighs for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown.
  7. In a small bowl, stir together the barbecue sauce, honey, Worcestershire sauce, and apple cider vinegar.
  8. Brush the BBQ sauce mixture generously over both sides of the chicken thighs.
  9. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  10. For a thicker glaze, brush on another layer of BBQ sauce during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
  11. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve.

Notes

  • Use your favorite smoky, honey, or hickory barbecue sauce for the best flavor.
  • Avoid adding the BBQ sauce before searing, as the sugars can burn.
  • For extra smoky flavor, add a pinch of chipotle powder to the seasoning blend.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Serve with coleslaw, baked beans, corn on the cob, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or potato salad.