Juicy Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken Recipe: Crispy, Flavor-Packed Perfection in Every Bite

There’s nothing quite like the taste of tender, juicy BBQ chicken with a homemade sauce that’s smoky, sweet, and just a little bit tangy. This oven-baked BBQ chicken recipe delivers all that and more. The crispy skin, rich with smoky spices, gives way to succulent meat, and the homemade BBQ sauce caramelizes perfectly under the broiler, making every bite a taste explosion.

Photo byInsanelyGoodRecipes

I came across this amazing recipe on Insanely Good Recipes and knew I had to share it with you. If you’re looking for an easy, flavorful dinner that requires minimal effort and ingredients, this is the one to try. Whether you're hosting a weekend BBQ or just need a reliable weeknight dinner, this BBQ chicken will satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

What sets this recipe apart is the deep flavor developed from the blend of spices and the homemade BBQ sauce. This sauce isn’t just any store-bought BBQ — it’s a tangy-sweet concoction with a subtle kick of cayenne pepper that makes it irresistible. The chicken thighs and drumsticks, with their juicy meat and crispy skin, are the perfect canvas for this bold sauce. You’ll also love how easy it is to make: no grill required!

The Story Behind This Dish

BBQ chicken has always been a family favorite, and the oven-baked version is a game-changer when you want the flavors of summer without the hassle of a grill. Growing up, BBQ chicken was a staple at family gatherings and cookouts, but we often relied on bottled sauces. When I found this recipe, I fell in love with the idea of making my own BBQ sauce, and it has completely elevated the dish. Now, it’s a go-to recipe I make for family dinners and even as a dish to bring to potlucks.

Cultural Tidbit:
BBQ chicken is an American classic, particularly in Southern cuisine where BBQ culture is deeply rooted. It’s known for its versatility, whether grilled, smoked, or baked in the oven. The homemade BBQ sauce in this recipe takes inspiration from classic American BBQ, combining sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors with a bit of heat, representing a typical Southern BBQ sauce profile.

How to Make Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 large bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and/or drumsticks
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil
• 1 ½ tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground white pepper

For the Homemade BBQ Sauce:

• 1 ½ cups ketchup
• ½ cup apple cider vinegar
• ¼ cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prep:
   Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a baking dish with oil to prevent sticking.
2. Season the Chicken:
   Place your chicken thighs and/or drumsticks in a large Ziploc bag. Add the avocado oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and white pepper. Seal the bag and shake it up until the chicken is evenly coated with the oil and spice mixture. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
3. Prepare the BBQ Sauce:
   While the chicken marinates, whisk together all the BBQ sauce ingredients in a medium saucepan. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently. Once it starts to thicken (after about 10-15 minutes), remove it from the heat.
4. Bake the Chicken:
   Place the seasoned chicken pieces into your greased baking dish. Brush them generously with about half of the BBQ sauce. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
5. Flip and Bake Again:
   Flip the chicken pieces over and brush them with more BBQ sauce. Continue baking for another 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.
6. Broil for That Perfect Finish:
   Switch your oven to broil on high. Give the chicken a final brush with BBQ sauce and broil for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and caramelized. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
7. Rest and Serve:
   Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm with any extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.

Cooking Tips:

• For the juiciest chicken, always go for bone-in, skin-on thighs or drumsticks. The bone helps retain moisture, and the skin gets beautifully crispy in the oven.
• If you’re short on time, you can substitute your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce, but trust me — making your own is worth it!
• Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.

Variations to Try

• Spicy BBQ Chicken:
  If you like heat, up the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for a spicier kick.
• Gluten-Free Option:
  Ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free or substitute it with tamari or coconut aminos to keep this dish gluten-free.
• Vegetarian BBQ Alternative:
  Swap out the chicken for cauliflower florets for a delicious vegetarian version. Coat them in the same spice mix and BBQ sauce and bake until tender and crispy.

Pairing Suggestions:

This BBQ chicken pairs beautifully with classic sides like creamy coleslaw, baked beans, or grilled corn on the cob. For a lighter option, serve it with a fresh garden salad or some roasted vegetables.

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