Summer is here, and you know what that means—it’s time to fire up the grills, pack the coolers, and gather with friends and family over great food. Nothing says summer quite like a plate of crispy oven-baked BBQ chicken.
Succulent chicken, smothered in rich barbecue sauce. It’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. This dish doesn’t just steal the spotlight, it brings everyone together.
Now, let’s talk about what pairs beautifully with crispy oven-baked BBQ chicken. For me, a side of creamy coleslaw is the perfect match. The crunchy veggies and tangy dressing complement the sweet and smoky barbecue flavor beautifully.
Then there’s the classic cornbread, which adds just the right amount of sweetness. And how about some baked beans? Their hearty texture and savory taste offer a delightful contrast to the chicken. These sides not only balance the meal but make it a memorable gathering.
What is Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken?
Crispy oven-baked BBQ chicken is exactly what it sounds like: chicken pieces cooked to golden perfection in the oven, generously coated with your favorite BBQ sauce. Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks work best as they retain moisture while developing a crispy skin.
This method allows the chicken to be tender and juicy inside, with a delightful crunch outside. Plus, it’s easy to whip up a large batch, making it perfect for summer cookouts.
The Ingredients
You won’t need a fancy grocery list to create this delicious dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (or canola oil): This helps crisp up the chicken skin.
- 8-10 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and/or drumsticks: The stars of the show. Choose fresh, high-quality pieces for the best taste.
- 2 cups of your preferred BBQ sauce: Go for your favorite brand or homemade variety. The flavor is key!
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: This adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: A little goes a long way in enhancing that smoky flavor.
How to Make Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken?
This recipe is straightforward. The process is simple, and I’ll walk you through each step in detail. You’ll find it’s worth your time. Let’s get crispy!
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is essential for achieving that coveted crispy skin. While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil to catch any drips. This will save you cleanup time later.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This step is crucial. Moisture on the skin will prevent greatness from happening. Place the chicken in a large bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and add salt and pepper to taste. Toss them around to coat evenly. Spread them out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken First
Before adding the BBQ sauce, bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 35 minutes. This initial baking time allows the skin to render fat and become crispy. You’ll be amazed at how good your kitchen will smell!
Step 4: Make the BBQ Mixture
While the chicken is in the oven, mix your BBQ sauce with the apple cider vinegar and smoked paprika in a bowl. This combination enhances the depth of flavor and gives each piece the perfect glaze.
Step 5: Coat and Bake Again
After 35 minutes, pull the chicken out of the oven. Brush each piece generously with the BBQ mixture. Make sure they’re well coated; this is where the flavor truly comes from. Return the chicken to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce is bubbling.
Step 6: Broil for Extra Crispiness
For that ultimate crunch, turn on the broiler for an additional 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it so that it doesn’t burn. When the skin is crispy and the sauce is caramelized, it’s time to take them out.
Notes
Here are some tips to enhance your BBQ chicken experience:
- Choose Bone-In Cuts: They retain moisture better than boneless cuts.
- Pat Dry: Always pat your chicken skin dry for maximum crispiness.
- Experiment with Sauces: Don’t hesitate to mix sauces. Try mango BBQ or chipotle for a twist.
- Allow Resting: Let the chicken sit for a few minutes before serving to retain juices.
- Serve Warm: BBQ chicken tastes best when served fresh from the oven.
Storage Tips
Got leftovers? No problem! Store the chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
You can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, and it should still retain a decent crunch.
Nutrition Information
Per serving (one chicken thigh without extra sauce):
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Sodium: 420mg
(These values can vary based on the specific ingredients used and the portion sizes.)
Serving Suggestions
Feeling inspired yet? Here are a few serving ideas to make your BBQ chicken plate stand out:
- Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy slaw pairs beautifully with the rich BBQ flavor.
- Cornbread: Slightly sweet, it complements the savory notes of the chicken seamlessly.
- Baked Beans: Their hearty texture and sauciness are a match made in comfort food heaven.
- Grilled Veggies: Seasoned and tossed on the grill; they add a fresh and smoky flavor.
- Potato Salad: A classic side dish that adds creaminess to your BBQ plate.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken?
If you’re looking to switch things up, here are some excellent substitutes:
- Skinless Chicken: Use skinless cuts for a healthier version, but note that it may not be as crispy.
- Turkey Thighs or Drumsticks: For a leaner alternative, turkey works well too.
- Different BBQ Sauces: Experiment with different flavors, such as honey BBQ or spicy BBQ.
- Chicken Breasts: Use boneless chicken breasts, but adjust cooking time to avoid drying them out.
- Plant-Based Chicken: Try using plant-based chicken alternatives for a vegetarian dish.
Conclusion
Crispy oven-baked BBQ chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a delicious way to create memories. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or enjoying a quiet dinner, this dish is sure to please.
The combination of juicy meat, a crispy exterior, and robust flavor is irresistible. So gather your friends, serve up some of that coleslaw, and enjoy! Happy cooking!
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- Lemon Garlic Rosemary Roasted Copycat Chicken
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Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken – Gourmet And Food
Description
Summer is here, and you know what that means—it's time to fire up the grills, pack the coolers, and gather with friends and family over great food. Nothing says summer quite like a plate of crispy oven-baked BBQ chicken.
Succulent chicken, smothered in rich barbecue sauce. It’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. This dish doesn’t just steal the spotlight, it brings everyone together.
Now, let’s talk about what pairs beautifully with crispy oven-baked BBQ chicken. For me, a side of creamy coleslaw is the perfect match. The crunchy veggies and tangy dressing complement the sweet and smoky barbecue flavor beautifully.
Then there’s the classic cornbread, which adds just the right amount of sweetness. And how about some baked beans? Their hearty texture and savory taste offer a delightful contrast to the chicken. These sides not only balance the meal but make it a memorable gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
-
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is essential for achieving that coveted crispy skin. While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil to catch any drips. This will save you cleanup time later.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
-
Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This step is crucial. Moisture on the skin will prevent greatness from happening. Place the chicken in a large bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and add salt and pepper to taste. Toss them around to coat evenly. Spread them out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken First
-
Before adding the BBQ sauce, bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 35 minutes. This initial baking time allows the skin to render fat and become crispy. You’ll be amazed at how good your kitchen will smell!
Step 4: Make the BBQ Mixture
-
While the chicken is in the oven, mix your BBQ sauce with the apple cider vinegar and smoked paprika in a bowl. This combination enhances the depth of flavor and gives each piece the perfect glaze.
Step 5: Coat and Bake Again
-
After 35 minutes, pull the chicken out of the oven. Brush each piece generously with the BBQ mixture. Make sure they’re well coated; this is where the flavor truly comes from. Return the chicken to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce is bubbling.
Step 6: Broil for Extra Crispiness
-
For that ultimate crunch, turn on the broiler for an additional 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it so that it doesn’t burn. When the skin is crispy and the sauce is caramelized, it’s time to take them out.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 280kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 20g31%
- Saturated Fat 6g30%
- Sodium 420mg18%
- Total Carbohydrate 7g3%
- Protein 22g44%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Choose Bone-In Cuts: They retain moisture better than boneless cuts.
- Pat Dry: Always pat your chicken skin dry for maximum crispiness.
- Experiment with Sauces: Don’t hesitate to mix sauces. Try mango BBQ or chipotle for a twist.
- Allow Resting: Let the chicken sit for a few minutes before serving to retain juices.
- Serve Warm: BBQ chicken tastes best when served fresh from the oven.
