Oven Baked BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs about 6 thighs
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray or oil. (If you plan to broil at the end, use a rimmed broiler-safe baking sheet).
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and trim any excess fat.
- In a small bowl, mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over both sides of the chicken and place them in the prepared baking dish. Avoid overlapping the chicken.
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes.
- Remove the dish from the oven and brush the chicken with BBQ sauce on both sides. Return to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Optional: Broil the chicken on a rimmed broiler-safe baking sheet for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the BBQ sauce is bubbly and slightly caramelized. Watch closely to avoid burning. It's okay to cook chicken thighs past 165°F because they stay juicy and often become more tender at higher temperatures. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Storage: Store leftover BBQ chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or use the microwave (covered) in short bursts. To freeze, place cooled chicken thighs in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 to 4 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave, oven, or air fryer.
Boiler safety: Do not broil in glass baking dishes, as they can shatter under direct high heat. Many nonstick baking sheets are also not broiler-safe. Always check your pan’s manufacturer instructions before broiling, or use an all-metal rimmed baking sheet or cast iron pan.
