Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Sticky BBQ chicken bake in cast iron pan with thick glaze

Best Sticky BBQ Chicken Bake – Fast, Easy, Delicious

This Sticky BBQ Chicken Bake delivers all the sweet and smoky barbecue flavors you love—no grill required! Perfect for busy weeknights, this oven-baked recipe is incredibly simple and yields juicy, tender chicken with a glossy, caramelized glaze. Made with bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and a splash of apple cider vinegar, it’s a mouthwatering meal that’s both satisfying and easy to customize.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 chicken thighs

Ingredients

  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)

  • 2 tbsp brown sugar

  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix

  • 1 medium red onion, sliced

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.

  • In a large bowl, season the chicken thighs with garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and ranch mix. Toss to coat evenly.

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.

  • Add the sliced red onion and chicken thighs to the sauce mixture. Toss until the chicken is thoroughly coated.

  • Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Reserve excess sauce.

  • Bake for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, simmer the reserved sauce in a small pan over low heat or microwave until slightly thickened to create a glaze.

  • After 30 minutes, remove the chicken from the oven and brush with the thickened glaze.

  • Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the glaze is sticky and caramelized.

  • Optional: For extra caramelization, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end—watch closely to avoid burning.

 

  • Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

  • For a spicier version, add hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the BBQ glaze.

  • Boneless thighs or breasts can be used, but reduce cooking time by 5-10 minutes.

  • Pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, roasted corn, broccoli salad, or grilled vegetables.

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

 

  • To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 275°F oven until heated through.

  • Author: Amanda
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: 6 chicken thighs
  • Method: Bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
  • Calories: 340
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: 15 minute prep, baked chicken, bbq, bbq chicken, chicken thighs, easy, easy bake, family dinner, flavorful, grilling, juicy chicken thighs, oven roasted, quick, roasted corn, summer, summer bbq, sweet, tangy, weeknight meal