Description
Sizzling caramelized BBQ chicken thighs promise a flavor explosion that dances between sweet and smoky. Juicy meat glazed with rich, caramelized sauce delivers a mouthwatering experience you won’t forget.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Sauce and Seasoning:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
Cooking Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven by heating to 400°F, creating the perfect environment for caramelizing chicken thighs.
- Craft a rich glaze by whisking BBQ sauce and brown sugar until smooth and fully integrated.
- Thoroughly dry chicken thighs using paper towels to guarantee crisp skin development.
- Generously season chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
- Warm olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, creating an ideal searing surface.
- Place chicken thighs skin-side down, searing for 5-6 minutes until skin transforms into a golden, crispy texture.
- Rotate chicken thighs skin-side up, then lavishly coat with prepared BBQ sauce mixture.
- Transfer skillet to preheated oven, roasting for 25-30 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- For enhanced caramelization, activate broiler and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, monitoring closely to prevent burning.
- Allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes, allowing juices to redistribute and intensify flavor.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve alongside preferred accompaniments.
Notes
- Choose bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor and juiciness, ensuring a crispy exterior and tender meat.
- Pat chicken completely dry before seasoning to achieve that perfect golden-brown caramelization and prevent steaming.
- Adjust brown sugar quantity based on preferred sweetness level, using less for a tangier sauce or more for intense caramelization.
- Replace traditional BBQ sauce with homemade or low-sugar alternatives for healthier dietary modifications like keto or diabetic-friendly options.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 14 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg