Easy BBQ Oven Chicken: A Weeknight Dinner Game-Changer
When you’re craving that delicious, sticky-sweet flavor of bbq oven chicken but don’t want to fire up the grill, this recipe is your perfect solution. In less than an hour, you’ll have juicy, flavorful chicken that tastes like it came straight from a summer cookout—no matter the weather outside!
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Why You’ll Love This Baked BBQ Chicken Recipe
This oven-baked barbecue chicken is the perfect blend of convenience and flavor. The skin gets deliciously crispy while the meat stays tender and juicy, infused with that classic smoky-sweet BBQ flavor we all crave. It’s:
- ✓ Quick to prepare – only 10 minutes of hands-on time
- ✓ Family-friendly – a crowd-pleaser for all ages
- ✓ High in protein – 58g per serving!
- ✓ Versatile – pair with any sides for a complete meal
Ingredients for Perfect BBQ Chicken in the Oven
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts (about 2-3 pounds total)
- 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for heat
How to Make BBQ Oven Chicken – Step by Step
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and promotes crispy skin.
- Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts and rub to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over all sides of the chicken.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece.
- Bake for 25 minutes to allow the chicken to cook partially and the skin to start crisping.
- Remove from the oven and brush each chicken breast generously with BBQ sauce, making sure to cover all exposed surfaces.
- Sprinkle a little brown sugar on top of the BBQ sauce for extra caramelization.
- Return to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the BBQ sauce is sticky and starting to caramelize.
- For extra sticky, glazed chicken, brush with another thin layer of BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving to help retain juices.
Pro Tips for the Best BBQ Chicken in the Oven
Want to take your bbq oven chicken to the next level? Here are some insider tips:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked chicken every time – 165°F is the magic number!
- Line your baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup – BBQ sauce can get sticky!
- Don’t rush the brushing – apply BBQ sauce in stages for the best flavor development and caramelization.
- Let it rest – giving the chicken 5 minutes before cutting helps keep all those delicious juices inside.
Perfect Side Dishes for Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken
Complete your meal with these classic barbecue sides:
- Creamy coleslaw
- Cornbread muffins
- Baked beans
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Roasted corn on the cob
- Mac and cheese
Storing and Reheating Leftover BBQ Chicken
This bbq oven chicken makes excellent leftovers! Store any remaining chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a 325°F oven for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. Add a little extra BBQ sauce before reheating to keep the chicken moist.
Frequently Asked Questions About BBQ Oven Chicken
Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts will cook faster, so reduce the initial baking time to about 15-20 minutes total. Just be careful not to overcook, as they can dry out more easily than bone-in pieces.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are a great option and often stay even juicier than breasts. The cooking time will be similar, but always use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F.
How do I prevent the BBQ sauce from burning?
The key is adding the BBQ sauce partway through cooking rather than at the beginning. The sugar in BBQ sauce can burn if it’s in the oven too long, so adding it after the chicken has partially cooked helps achieve that perfect sticky glaze without burning.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can season the chicken and keep it refrigerated for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also fully cook the chicken, refrigerate, and reheat when ready to serve, though it’s most delicious when freshly made.
Whether you’re planning a family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this bbq oven chicken recipe delivers that classic barbecue flavor with minimal effort. Enjoy the perfect combination of juicy meat and sticky-sweet sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds!