Easy Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken: Perfect Weeknight Dinner
Looking for a simple yet delicious dinner option? This bbq chicken oven baked recipe is your answer! It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. The juicy chicken coated with tangy barbecue sauce will have your family asking for seconds!
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When outdoor grilling isn’t an option but you’re craving that classic barbecue flavor, this oven-baked BBQ chicken comes to the rescue. Ready in under an hour, it delivers all the sticky, sweet, and tangy goodness of barbecue with minimal effort. The chicken breasts bake to perfect tenderness while developing a delicious caramelized exterior.
Why You’ll Love This Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken Recipe
- Quick prep time – just 10 minutes before it goes in the oven
- Juicy results – bone-in, skin-on chicken stays moist while baking
- Family-friendly – a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults
- Versatile – pairs with countless side dishes
- No grill needed – enjoy barbecue flavor year-round
Cook Time: 45 minutes |
Total Time: 55 minutes |
Servings: 4
Ingredients You’ll Need for Perfect BBQ Chicken in the Oven
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts
- 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce (plus extra for basting)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon honey for extra sweetness
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for heat
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking dish or sheet pan
- Aluminum foil
- Basting brush
- Meat thermometer
- Small mixing bowl
How to Make Delicious BBQ Chicken in Your Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish or sheet pan with aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and promotes crispier skin.
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Rub this seasoning mixture all over the chicken breasts, making sure to get under the skin for maximum flavor.
- Place the chicken breasts skin-side up in your prepared baking dish, leaving a little space between each piece.
- Bake for 25 minutes to start cooking the chicken through.
- Remove from the oven and generously brush BBQ sauce over each chicken breast. If using honey, mix it with the BBQ sauce before brushing.
- Return to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes.
- Brush another layer of BBQ sauce on the chicken and bake for 10 more minutes.
- Check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. If needed, bake for a few more minutes.
- For a more caramelized finish, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Expert Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken
- Line your pan: Always use foil or parchment for easier cleanup – BBQ sauce can be sticky!
- Don’t rush: The multiple basting steps create layers of flavor and the perfect sticky-sweet exterior.
- Temperature matters: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is safely cooked to 165°F.
- Rest the chicken: Those 5 minutes of resting time are crucial for juicy results.
- Sauce selection: Choose a high-quality BBQ sauce you love, as it’s a dominant flavor in this dish.
- Make it your own: Feel free to add additional spices like smoked paprika or brown sugar to customize the flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Your Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken
This versatile main dish pairs beautifully with so many sides! Here are some perfect companions:
- Classic sides: Corn on the cob, coleslaw, baked beans
- Starches: Mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, cornbread
- Vegetables: Roasted brussels sprouts, grilled zucchini, green beans
- Lighter options: Garden salad, steamed broccoli, quinoa
Storage and Reheating Instructions
This bbq chicken oven baked recipe makes excellent leftovers! Store any extra chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 300°F oven for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, though the skin won’t stay as crispy.
Nutrition Information
Per serving:
- 476 calories
- 23g carbohydrates
- 58g protein
- 15g fat
- 4g saturated fat
- 163mg cholesterol
- 937mg sodium
- 16g sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken breasts?
Yes! Boneless chicken breasts work well but cook faster. Reduce the initial baking time to 15 minutes before the first BBQ sauce application.
What if I don’t have skin-on chicken?
Skinless chicken is fine too, but be extra careful not to overcook as it can dry out more easily.
Can I make this recipe with chicken thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are delicious with this method. The cooking time remains similar.
Can I prepare this in advance?
You can season the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, but add the BBQ sauce just before baking for best results.
This bbq chicken oven baked recipe proves that you don’t need a grill to enjoy delicious barbecue flavor. With minimal hands-on time and simple ingredients, it’s perfect for busy weeknights while still delivering restaurant-quality results. Give it a try tonight!