Lunch & Dinner

Oven BBQ Chicken Recipe – Delicious Meal Ideas

Name: Oven BBQ Chicken Recipe – Delicious Meal Ideas
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 min
Total time: 31 min
Yield: 12
Ingredients: 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper; 12 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 1 tbsp. apple cider vinegar; 1/2 cup of apricot preserves; 3 cups of your preferred barbecue sauce; A few dashes of hot sauce; 1 garlic clove, finely grated; Olive oil for brushing; 1 tsp. sea salt; 1/2 tsp. smoked paprika

Irene Adkins April 10, 2025

Servings: 12 Total Time: 31 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Oven BBQ chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides that enhance its smoky, tangy flavors. Classic corn on the cob, slathered in butter and salt, adds a sweet crunch, while a tangy vinegar-based coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast.

Hearty baked beans bring a sweet and savory depth, and a creamy potato salad, infused with herbs, offers a comforting balance to the richness of the BBQ sauce.

What is Oven BBQ Chicken?

Oven BBQ chicken is simple yet satisfying. It involves chicken thighs slathered in a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce, baked to perfection in the oven.

The result is tender, juicy chicken that falls off the bone, with the sauce caramelizing beautifully, creating a glaze that is both finger-licking and irresistible.

Why This Recipe Works

There are numerous recipes for oven BBQ chicken, but this one stands out for several reasons:

1. Flavorful Ingredients: Every element in this recipe has a purpose. The combination of apricot preserves with barbecue sauce creates a unique sweetness that balances the savory notes of the chicken.

2. Simple Preparation: This dish requires minimal prep work. Just a few ingredients and steps transform into a feast that does not overwhelm.

3. Versatility: You can tweak this recipe to suit your tastes. Swap chicken thighs for breasts, adjust the heat level, or experiment with different sauces.

4. Guaranteed Moisture: The bone-in and skin-on nature of the chicken retains moisture during cooking. You won’t find dry meat here.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Oven BBQ Chicken

To create this delectable dish, gather the following ingredients:

1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
12 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup of apricot preserves
3 cups of your preferred barbecue sauce
A few dashes of hot sauce (optional)
1 garlic clove, finely grated
Olive oil for brushing
1 tsp. sea salt
1/2 tsp. smoked paprika

How To Make This Oven BBQ Chicken

You’re probably itching to learn how to make this delicious dish. Let’s get right into it!

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures the chicken cooks through while achieving that luscious caramelization on the outside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the oven warms up, take your chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up. Once dry, place them in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Next, sprinkle salt, pepper, and smoked paprika over the chicken thighs. Use your hands to ensure they’re evenly coated. This step builds a solid flavor foundation that will shine through.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a separate bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, apricot preserves, apple cider vinegar, and grated garlic. Mix well until everything is combined smoothly. Look at that beautiful color!

Step 5: Coat the Chicken

Now, take the sauce and generously brush it over each chicken thigh. Make sure all sides are coated. If you have extra sauce, don’t set it aside. You can use it to baste the chicken halfway through cooking.

Step 6: Bake

Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. It makes for easy cleanup. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Basting halfway through with extra sauce will enhance the flavor.

Step 7: Broil for Crispiness

For that final touch, switch your oven to broil for 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on the chicken to ensure it does not burn. You want that crispy, caramelized exterior that’s finger-licking good!

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy bites. Serve with your favorite sides, and you’re ready to feast.

Tips for Perfect Oven BBQ Chicken

Use Bone-In Thighs: Chicken thighs have more fat than breasts, keeping them moist during cooking.
Don’t Skip the Resting: Let the chicken sit for a few minutes after cooking. This really makes a difference.
Customize Your Sauce: You can use homemade barbecue sauce or choose from store-bought brands that spark your interest.
Monitor Doneness: Invest in a meat thermometer for perfect results every time.
Experiment with Flavors: Try different preserves in the sauce for a unique twist. Mango, peach, or even pineapple can be exciting alternatives.

How to Store the Leftovers?

Leftover oven BBQ chicken can be easily stored in the refrigerator. Place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. If you wish to keep it longer, consider freezing it.

Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe container. This way, the chicken stays fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Recommended Side Dishes for Oven BBQ Chicken

To create a complete meal, consider these sides:

Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy, and perfect with butter. Grill them or boil them for a simple side that everyone loves.
Coleslaw: A vibrant mix of cabbage and carrots, coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the chicken.
Baked Beans: These can be sweet or savory, depending on your preference. They add heartiness and richness to the plate.
Potato Salad: Creamy or vinegary, this classic side enhances BBQ chicken with comfort and satisfaction.

Substitutes for Ingredients

If you find yourself missing some ingredients or want to try something different, consider these substitutes:

Chicken Thighs: Swap for boneless chicken breasts if you prefer less fat, but adjust cooking times for tenderness.
Barbecue Sauce: Experiment with a homemade version involving ketchup, brown sugar, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce.
Apricot Preserves: Use peach preserves or honey for a different sweet note in your sauce.
Apple Cider Vinegar: White vinegar or even balsamic vinegar can introduce an interesting taste.

Conclusion

Oven BBQ chicken isn’t just about feeding the hunger; it’s about creating moments. This dish can bring family together or serve as the foundation for a delightful gathering. With a few layers of flavor, easy steps, and tons of variety, it’s clear why this recipe stands out.

Whether you’re an experienced home cook or a novice in the kitchen, this oven BBQ chicken recipe is a sure way to impress anyone at your table.

So, roll up your sleeves and prepare to enjoy some finger-licking goodness. Happy cooking!

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Oven BBQ Chicken Recipe – Delicious Meal Ideas

Author: Irene Adkins Cuisine: American Courses: Lunch & Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 30 mins Cook Time 1 min Total Time 31 mins

Servings: 12 Calories: 617 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

There's something undeniably comforting about oven BBQ chicken. The smell wafting through the house, the anticipation of that first juicy bite—it’s a familiar scene for many.

In my kitchen, this dish has become a staple, whether I'm serving up family dinners or hosting friends for a cozy get-together. There’s a bit of magic when those chicken thighs cook in rich, tangy barbecue sauce. Trust me, it’s more than just a meal; it’s a conversation starter.

Unlike outdoor grilling, preparing BBQ chicken in the oven gives you more control over the cooking process. Plus, you'll avoid the headache of unpredictable weather.

Whether it's a sunny day or pouring rain, you can whip up this delightful dish and make your kitchen the star of the evening.

In this article, I'll guide you through everything you need to know about making the most mouthwatering oven BBQ chicken. From ingredients to side dishes, I promise there’s a treasure trove of information ahead.

Ready to dive in? Let’s go!