Description
Experience tender, juicy chicken coated in a sticky, caramelized BBQ glaze with this incredibly simple recipe. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners and guaranteed to be a family favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2–3 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 1 tbsp paprika (smoked preferred)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1.5 cups favorite BBQ sauce
- Optional: 1 tsp cayenne pepper or 1 tbsp brown sugar/honey
Instructions
- 1. Prepare and Season: Pat chicken dry. Combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper; rub over chicken. Let sit 15-30 mins.
- 2. Bake for Tenderness: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange chicken on a lined baking sheet. Bake 30-40 minutes until 165°F (74°C).
- 3. First Sauce Layer: Remove chicken, brush with a generous layer of BBQ sauce. Return to oven; bake 10-15 minutes.
- 4. Broil for Caramelization: Remove chicken, apply another layer of BBQ sauce. Broil 6-8 inches from element for 3-5 minutes, watching closely until caramelized. Flip, add more sauce, broil 2-3 minutes.
- 5. Rest: Remove from oven, tent with foil, and rest 5-10 minutes before serving for optimal juiciness.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 45-60 mins