These Easy Sticky Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs are perfect for a tasty dinner! The chicken turns out tender and packed with flavor, thanks to a sweet and spicy barbecue sauce.
Whenever I make these, my kitchen smells amazing! Plus, the stickiness means you can’t help but lick your fingers—and who doesn’t love a little messy fun while eating? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend bone-in, skin-on thighs for their juiciness and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless, skinless chicken thighs could work, but they may cook faster.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce or make your own! If you’re avoiding sugar, sugar-free BBQ sauces are widely available now. Personal preference? I love a tangy sauce to balance the spice.
Sriracha Sauce: This adds heat to the dish! You can tweak the amount based on your spice tolerance. If sriracha isn’t your thing, try hot sauce or even some chipotle powder for a different flavor kick.
Honey or Brown Sugar: Honey gives a nice glaze, while brown sugar adds depth. You can substitute with maple syrup or agave nectar if you need a vegan-friendly option.
Seasonings: Feel free to play with the spices! Adding some cayenne pepper for an extra kick or Italian herbs for a twist can be delicious.
How Do I Get the Chicken Skin Nice and Crispy?
Achieving crispy skin while keeping the chicken juicy can be challenging but totally doable! Here are my tips:
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry before cooking. Removing excess moisture helps it crisp up.
- Oiling the skin helps it brown and stick well to the spices. Olive oil is a great choice here.
- Bake the chicken skin-side up for the best crispiness. The skin will catch the heat, making it deliciously crispy.
- Basting with the BBQ sauce halfway through cooking helps create that sticky coating without making the skin soggy.
Easy Sticky Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust for heat preference)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced, for garnish
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll spend about 40 minutes bringing these flavorful chicken thighs to the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps the chicken cook evenly and develop crispy skin. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light coat of cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, honey (or brown sugar), sriracha sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, soy sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well combined—this will be your sticky, spicy glaze!
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs and pat them dry using paper towels. This will help the skin get crispy! Rub the thighs with olive oil, then sprinkle them lightly with salt and pepper.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place the chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side up. It’s important that they are laid out with some space between them, so they cook evenly.
5. Glaze the Chicken:
Using a brush or spoon, generously coat each chicken thigh with the BBQ sauce mixture. Make sure every piece is well-covered—this is where all the flavor comes from!
6. Bake the Chicken:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it! The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin looks golden and caramelized.
7. Baste for Extra Stickiness:
About halfway through baking (around 15 minutes), take the chicken out and baste it again with the BBQ sauce for that extra sticky goodness!
8. Let It Rest:
Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute for a more tender bite.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds on top for a finishing touch. Serve your delicious sticky spicy BBQ chicken thighs hot with sides like rice, coleslaw, or steamed veggies!
Enjoy your meal and happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can definitely use boneless chicken thighs! Just note that they will cook faster, so reduce the baking time to about 20-25 minutes and check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Substitute for Sriracha Sauce?
If you need a substitute for sriracha, you can use hot sauce, chili paste, or even red pepper flakes for heat. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken with the sauce mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This will enhance the flavor even more!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can either bake it at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or microwave it for a quick option.
