Description
Juicy chicken thighs or breasts baked to perfection with a smoky, sweet glaze. This no-grill recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor in 35 minutes—ideal for easy weeknights or festive meals.
Ingredients
4 bone-in chicken thighs or 4 boneless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
BBQ glaze (see below)
Olive oil
Molasses (optional, for dusting)
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon molasses
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)
Pat chicken dry and rub with olive oil
In a small bowl, mix paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper
Evenly coat chicken with spice rub
Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper
Bake for 25 minutes
Meanwhile, combine BBQ glaze ingredients in a small saucepan
Simmer over low heat for 5 minutes
Brush half the glaze over chicken, bake 5 minutes more
Increase oven to 450°F (230°C)
Brush remaining glaze and bake 5-7 minutes until caramelized
Notes
Use chicken thighs for juicier results
Let chicken rest 10 minutes before serving
Store leftovers airtight in fridge for up to 3 days
Freeze unbaked chicken (minus glaze) for up to 2 months
Substitute honey for molasses if needed