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Caramelized BBQ Chicken Thighs in the Oven

Caramelized BBQ Chicken Thighs in the Oven

  • Author: Jonathan
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Caramelized BBQ Chicken Thighs in the Oven offer irresistibly crispy skin with a sweet and smoky glaze that locks in juicy tenderness. This easy recipe uses simple pantry staples to create a rich, caramelized crust and deeply flavorful chicken, perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 6 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on

BBQ Glaze

  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (natural)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste (natural)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon natural gelling agent (optional)

Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (natural)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (natural)
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika to build the flavor base.
  2. Make the BBQ Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together brown sugar, tomato paste, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil until smooth and glossy. If the glaze is too loose, gently stir in the natural gelling agent to achieve a thick but spreadable consistency.
  3. Coat and Marinate: Brush a generous layer of the BBQ glaze over each chicken thigh, ensuring full coverage. Let the coated chicken rest for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and to begin caramelization.
  4. Oven Roast: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a lightly oiled wire rack over a tray. Roast for 35 to 40 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Final Broil for Crispiness: Place the chicken under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes to add an extra caramelized crunch. Watch carefully to avoid burning. Remove once the glaze is deeply caramelized and the skin is crisp.

Notes

  • Dry the chicken skin very well before seasoning to ensure maximum crispiness.
  • Use skin-on thighs for the best texture and flavor.
  • Allow the chicken to rest after glazing to enhance flavor and caramelization.
  • Carefully monitor when broiling as the glaze can burn quickly.
  • Apply the BBQ glaze in layers for a thicker, caramelized crust.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 100 mg

Keywords: BBQ chicken, caramelized chicken, oven baked chicken thighs, crispy skin chicken, smoky BBQ chicken, easy chicken recipe

Find it online: https://familycookspot.com/caramelized-bbq-chicken-thighs-in-the-oven/