Easy Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken

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Easy Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken

Tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, this oven-baked BBQ chicken is the ultimate fuss-free comfort food. With crispy skin, sticky-sweet glaze, and a touch of smokiness, it’s the perfect go-to recipe for any night of the week.

This recipe transforms simple bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces into golden, caramelized BBQ goodness—all in your oven. The key is a quick homemade rub, a rich and tangy sauce, and a few smart baking tricks to lock in flavor and moisture.

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (legs, thighs, or drumsticks)
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 3 cups barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat and Prepare:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack over the sheet if you have one for even baking.
  2. Season the Chicken:
    • In a small bowl, mix the salt and garlic powder.
    • Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
    • Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken, coating it evenly.
  3. First Bake:
    • Arrange the chicken skin-side down in a single layer.
    • Roast in the center of the oven for 25 minutes.
  4. Prepare the Sauce:
    • While the chicken bakes, pour the barbecue sauce into a small saucepan.
    • Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until thickened and reduced by half, about 20–25 minutes.
    • Taste and adjust the sweetness or tanginess if needed.
  5. Baste and Bake Again:
    • Remove the chicken from the oven and increase the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C).
    • Flip the chicken skin-side up and brush generously with the reduced barbecue sauce.
    • Roast for 10 minutes.
  6. Repeat Basting:
    • Remove the chicken, brush with more sauce, and return to the oven for another 10 minutes.
    • Repeat the basting one last time and bake for a final 10 minutes, or until the chicken is beautifully caramelized and slightly charred in spots.
  7. Optional Broil:
    • For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for 3–5 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  8. Serve:
    • Transfer the BBQ chicken to a serving platter.
    • Serve with any remaining sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling.

Tips for Success:

  • Use room-temperature chicken: Let your chicken sit out for 15–20 minutes before baking for more even cooking.
  • Customize your sauce: Mix ketchup, honey, a splash of apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of smoked paprika to make your own simple BBQ sauce if desired.
  • Don’t skip the broil: It’s the secret to that smoky, grilled finish—right from your oven.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this BBQ chicken with creamy coleslaw, cornbread, roasted potatoes, or a fresh garden salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

 

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