Follow these simple step-by-step instructions to bake perfectly juicy and flavorful BBQ chicken thighs:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare a Baking Dish

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for baking chicken thighs, ensuring they cook through while developing a beautiful, slightly crispy exterior. While the oven is preheating, prepare your baking dish. You can use a 9×13 inch baking dish or a similar sized oven-safe dish. Line the dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easier cleanup, although this is optional. If you choose not to line the dish, you may need to scrub it a bit more after baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Thighs

Remove the chicken thighs from their packaging and pat them dry with paper towels. Patting the chicken dry is a crucial step as it helps the skin crisp up better during baking. Excess moisture can steam the chicken instead of allowing it to brown properly. Once dry, place the chicken thighs in a large bowl.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Drizzle the chicken thighs with olive oil. This will help the seasonings adhere to the chicken and promote browning. In the bowl with the chicken, add paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. If using, add brown sugar at this stage as well. Using your hands (or tongs for less mess), thoroughly toss the chicken thighs to ensure they are evenly coated with the oil and spice mixture. Make sure to rub the spices into all sides of the chicken for maximum flavor penetration.

Step 4: Arrange Chicken in Baking Dish

Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can also lead to steaming rather than browning. If necessary, use two baking dishes to ensure the chicken thighs are not overlapping. Spacing them out allows for better air circulation and even cooking.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the baking dish from the oven. At this point, the chicken will be starting to cook through and release some juices.

Step 6: Add BBQ Sauce

Generously brush the BBQ sauce all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated. You can use a pastry brush or a spoon to apply the sauce. For a more intense BBQ flavor, you can even flip the thighs and sauce the other side as well. Reserve some BBQ sauce for basting later, if desired.

Step 7: Continue Baking and Baste (Optional)

Return the baking dish to the oven and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The exact baking time will depend on the size of your chicken thighs and your oven. For extra flavor and to keep the chicken moist, you can baste the chicken with more BBQ sauce halfway through this second baking period. Basting involves brushing or spooning more sauce over the chicken.

Step 8: Check for Doneness

The best way to ensure the chicken is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of a chicken thigh, avoiding the bone. The internal temperature should read 165°F (74°C). If the temperature has not reached 165°F, return the chicken to the oven and continue baking for a few more minutes, checking the temperature again. Visually, the juices should run clear when pierced with a fork, and the chicken should no longer be pink near the bone.

Step 9: Rest Before Serving

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the baking dish from the oven and let the chicken thighs rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken. Tent the baking dish loosely with foil during the resting period to keep the chicken warm.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!

After resting, your baked BBQ chicken thighs are ready to be served. Garnish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the juicy, flavorful, and perfectly baked BBQ chicken thighs!