Ingredients
- 8 chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon chili powder, optional
- 1 tablespoon honey, optional
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the chicken
Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and encourages better browning.
2. Make the seasoning
In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and chili powder.
3. Season the chicken
Rub the chicken with olive oil, then coat each piece generously with the seasoning mixture. Let it rest for 15–30 minutesif you have time.
4. Prepare the BBQ sauce
Mix the BBQ sauce with the honey and lemon juice. Set aside about ⅓ of the sauce for serving later.
5. Start baking
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the chicken in a lightly greased baking dish or on a lined baking sheet.
Bake for 25 minutes.
6. Add the BBQ sauce
Brush the chicken generously with BBQ sauce, making sure all sides are coated.
7. Continue baking
Return the chicken to the oven for another 15–20 minutes, brushing with additional sauce once or twice during cooking.
8. Check for doneness
The chicken is ready when the thickest part reaches 165°F (74°C) on a meat thermometer and the juices run clear.
9. Caramelize the outside
For a darker, sticky BBQ coating, switch to the broiler/grill setting for 2–3 minutes, watching closely so the sauce doesn’t burn.
10. Rest and serve
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then serve with extra BBQ sauce, coleslaw, roasted potatoes, corn, or a fresh salad. 🍗🔥
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