This easy caramelized BBQ chicken thighs recipe gives you juicy, sticky, and flavorful chicken every time. The sweet and smoky glaze coats every bite, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend cookout.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
- It’s simple to prepare with pantry ingredients.
- It turns out tender and flavorful every time.
- It works great for both grilling and oven baking.
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs : the star of this recipe, juicy and tender.
- Brown sugar : adds a rich caramel flavor.
- Barbecue sauce : brings smoky sweetness to the glaze.
- Soy sauce : adds depth and a touch of salt.
- Garlic : boosts savory aroma.
- Olive oil : helps caramelize the skin perfectly.
- Black pepper : balances the sweetness with mild spice.
Step by Step Instructions

- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for baking, or heat your grill to medium high if grilling. Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel.
- In a bowl, mix barbecue sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, olive oil, and pepper. Coat each piece of chicken well with this sweet and smoky marinade.
- Place the chicken on a lined baking sheet if making Bbq Chicken Thighs In Oven, or on the grill if preparing Bbq Chicken Thighs Grilled. Bake or grill for 25 to 30 minutes, turning once and brushing with extra sauce halfway.
- When the chicken reaches a deep golden color and sticky glaze, remove it and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Mistakes To Avoid
When making this easy caramelized BBQ chicken thighs recipe, small mistakes can stop that perfect glossy finish.
- Do not overcrowd your baking sheet. Airflow helps the skin caramelize evenly.
- Do not rush the cooking. Slow caramelization brings out rich, sticky flavor.
Serving Suggestions

These Caramelized Chicken Thighs pair beautifully with mashed potatoes or roasted veggies. For a hearty meal idea, try serving them next to creamy ground beef pasta. If you love comfort food, you’ll also enjoy this chicken tater tot casserole. Want more restaurant style flavor? Check out the Longhorn steakhouse chicken recipe for another savory favorite.

Easy Caramelized BBQ Chicken Thighs
Equipment
- Oven or Grill
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Sheet
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 chicken thighs bone-in or boneless
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a grill to medium-high. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, mix barbecue sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, olive oil, and black pepper.
- Coat each piece of chicken thoroughly in the marinade mixture.
- Place chicken on a lined baking sheet for oven cooking, or directly on grill grates. Cook for 25–30 minutes, turning once and basting with extra sauce halfway through.
- Remove when the chicken is deeply caramelized and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
FAQs
Can I use boneless thighs for this recipe?
Yes! Boneless chicken thighs cook faster and absorb the sauce better. If you make Bbq Chicken Thighs In Oven Boneless, bake them for about 22 to 25 minutes. Always check for an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit before serving.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes or until warm. This helps the glaze stay sticky and prevents the chicken from drying out.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. You can marinate the chicken in the sauce for up to 24 hours in the fridge. When ready, bake or grill as directed. This makes your Baked Barbecue Chicken Thighs extra flavorful and tender.
Conclusion
This easy caramelized BBQ chicken thighs recipe gives you juicy, sweet, and smoky flavor in every bite. It’s quick, simple, and perfect for busy nights. Save or pin this recipe now, and enjoy your new favorite Easy Bbq Chicken Thighs In Oven dish anytime you crave something warm and sticky delicious.

