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Sticky BBQ Chicken Thighs with Crispy Edges

Two pieces of Sticky BBQ Chicken Thighs with Crispy Edges glistening under bright light on a white plate.
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Follow this recipe to make flavorful, sticky BBQ chicken thighs that develop crispy edges during the final cooking stage.

Ingredients

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  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 cup your favorite thick BBQ sauce
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top of the foil.
  2. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry using paper towels. This step helps achieve crispy skin.
  3. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Rub this mixture evenly over the chicken thighs.
  4. Place the seasoned thighs skin-side up on the wire rack.
  5. Bake for 25 minutes.
  6. While the chicken bakes, prepare the sticky glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
  7. After 25 minutes of baking, brush half of the sticky glaze generously over the tops and sides of the chicken thighs.
  8. Return the chicken to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes.
  9. Brush the remaining glaze over the chicken. Increase the oven temperature to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius) or switch the oven setting to broil (watching closely).
  10. Cook for a final 3 to 5 minutes, or until the glaze is deeply caramelized and the edges of the skin are crispy. Watch carefully under the broiler to prevent burning.
  11. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Drying the skin thoroughly before seasoning is the key to getting crispy edges.
  • Using a wire rack allows air to circulate around the chicken, promoting even crisping on the bottom as well as the top.
  • Apply the final layer of glaze late in the cooking process to prevent the sugars from burning too quickly.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookerykings.com/sticky-bbq-chicken-thighs-with-crispy-edges/