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+ servings
Oven-baked BBQ chicken served with a side of veggies

Baked BBQ Chicken

A fast and flavorful baked BBQ chicken recipe that is easy to prepare, featuring a delicious spice rub and a sticky barbecue sauce for a perfect weeknight meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs Thighs are more forgiving; breasts cook leaner.
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder Use less for milder heat.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Substitute regular paprika if needed.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt Reduce to 1/4 teaspoon for lower sodium.
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce Plus extra for serving; choose your favorite or homemade sauce.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Spray a baking tray with non-stick spray or line it with foil for easier cleanup.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, and black pepper until evenly mixed.
  3. Pat the chicken dry using paper towels. Rub the spice mixture over both sides of each piece so every surface is seasoned.
  4. Arrange the chicken on the prepared tray, leaving space between pieces for even baking.
  5. Put the tray in the oven and bake uncovered for 20 minutes.
Cooking
  1. Remove the tray and brush the tops of the chicken with half of the BBQ sauce.
  2. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the internal temperature reads 165°F for breasts or 175°F to 190°F for thighs.
  3. If you want a slightly caramelized finish, brush on the remaining sauce and broil for 1 to 2 minutes while watching closely.
Serving
  1. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing or serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 38gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5g

Notes

Serve sliced over steamed rice, roasted potatoes, or a salad. For leftovers, turn them into sandwiches with BBQ sauce, pickles, and slaw. Refrigerate for 3 to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat slices with a splash of water or sauce to retain moisture.

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