Baked BBQ Chicken: Juicy, Saucy, and Easy to Make

Posted by Posted: Silvy 15 April 2025
Baked BBQ Chicken

Baked BBQ Chicken: Juicy, Saucy, and Easy to Make

There’s nothing quite like the flavor-packed punch of Baked BBQ Chicken fresh out of the oven. Whether you’re craving crispy drumsticks or tender chicken thighs, this dish has all the smoky, saucy goodness you love—without the need for a grill.

This foolproof recipe delivers sticky, caramelized skin and juicy meat, thanks to a simple dry brine, a good sear in the oven, and layer after layer of rich barbecue sauce. Perfect for weeknights, parties, or lazy Sundays, this meal is guaranteed to steal the show.

Let’s walk through how to make this crowd-pleaser the easy way!

Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken

  • Crispy skin and juicy meat every time
  • Works with thighs, drumsticks, or breasts
  • Uses homemade or store-bought BBQ sauce
  • Easy to bake and clean up with the right tools
  • Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 8 chicken drumsticks (about 1¾ lbs)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1¼ cups BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)

How to Make Baked BBQ Chicken

Step 1: Dry Brine for Flavor and Crispiness

Dry brining is a game-changer. Pat the chicken dry and sprinkle with salt on all sides. Let it chill uncovered in the fridge on a cooling rack for 12–20 hours. This step enhances flavor and ensures ultra-crispy skin.

Step 2: Season and Bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Season the chicken with pepper and paprika, then brush both sides with olive oil. Arrange the chicken skin-side-down on a lined baking sheet and bake for 26 minutes.

Step 3: Sauce It Up

Remove the chicken from the oven. Dab on BBQ sauce generously, flip to skin-side-up, and baste again. Bake for 8 minutes, then repeat this process two more times for a sticky, caramelized finish.

Step 4: Broil for Extra Crisp (Optional)

Craving that charred finish? Broil at 425°F for a few minutes until the skin blisters and crisps just right. Keep an eye on it—don’t walk away!

Step 5: Let It Rest

Let your masterpiece rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to lock in all that juicy goodness.

Tips for the Best Baked BBQ Chicken

  • Dark meat rules – Chicken thighs and drumsticks are juicier than breasts and are best cooked to 180°F.
  • Dry brine like a pro – Don’t skip this step. It seasons from within and enhances texture.
  • Use quality BBQ sauce – Whether it’s homemade or your favorite bottled brand (we love Sweet Baby Ray’s), sauce makes the difference.
  • Avoid sticking – A silicone baking mat helps prevent drips from burning and makes cleanup a breeze.
  • Check the temperature – Always use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness.

What to Serve With Baked BBQ Chicken

  • Potatoes: Mashed, roasted, or grilled—spuds are always a hit.
  • Veggies: Roasted green beans, carrots, or brussels sprouts add color and crunch.
  • Comfort sides: Think cornbread, stovetop mac & cheese, baked beans, or southern-style greens.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep the skin crispy.

Recommended Tools for This Recipe

  • Rimmed baking sheet – Prevents spills and helps crisp the chicken.
  • Cooling racks – Perfect for dry brining evenly.
  • Pastry brush – For spreading BBQ sauce with love.
  • Silicone baking mat – A cleanup hero.
  • Meat thermometer – No guesswork needed.

Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe

Want to go the extra mile? Whip up this easy homemade sauce:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup ketchup
  • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup honey
  • ¼ cup water
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tsp yellow mustard
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ¾ tsp each: onion powder, garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp each: black pepper

Instructions: Mix ingredients in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 25 minutes until thickened. Cool and store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

FAQs About Baked BBQ Chicken

Can I make this recipe with boneless chicken?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time. Boneless chicken cooks faster and may not get as crispy, but it will still be flavorful.

Is dry brining necessary?

Not mandatory, but highly recommended! It improves both flavor and texture, making a noticeable difference.

What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?

Any sauce you love works. For convenience, go with Sweet Baby Ray’s. For homemade goodness, try our simple recipe above.

Can I grill instead of baking?

Absolutely! Follow the same sauce and baste method, but adjust grill time to reach safe internal temperatures.

How do I keep the chicken from sticking to the pan?

Use a silicone baking mat or parchment paper. It helps with even cooking and easy cleanup.

Tried and True Chicken Recipes to Try Next

References

USDA Guidelines for Safe Cooking Temperatures
Sweet Baby Ray’s Official Website
Serious Eats Guide to Dry Brining
Healthline: Chicken Nutrition Facts
The Cozy Cook Original BBQ Chicken Recipe

104 Views
Tags: