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Oven Baked BBQ Chicken with Homemade Sauce Recipe

Avatar photoByJaden
Jump to Recipe· 4.9 from 83 reviews

If you’re craving juicy, flavorful chicken with that perfect sticky glaze but don’t want to fuss with grilling, I have just the thing for you: my Oven Baked BBQ Chicken with Homemade Sauce Recipe. This fan-freaking-tastic meal bakes the chicken right in a tangy, slightly sweet, smoky homemade BBQ sauce that soaks in all those delicious flavors. I love this recipe because it’s incredibly straightforward but delivers that “wow” factor every time. Read on — you’re going to want to add this one to your weeknight favorites!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy Homemade BBQ Sauce: You make a quick sauce right in the baking dish—no store-bought stuff needed!
  • Juicy, Tender Chicken: Baking in the sauce keeps all that moisture locked in for perfectly tender meat.
  • Sticky, Flavor-Packed Glaze: Finishing under the broiler caramelizes the sauce into a finger-licking glaze your whole family will adore.
  • Minimal Prep, Maximum Deliciousness: You can prep and pop it in the oven in under 10 minutes—so easy for busy days.
A white plate filled with three layers: the bottom layer is creamy mashed potatoes with a smooth texture, the middle layer is a thick piece of cooked meat topped with a shiny reddish-brown sauce, and the top layer has small green herb pieces sprinkled over the sauce. On the side of the plate, there are blurred cherry tomatoes and green beans adding red and green colors in the background. A fork is holding a piece of the meat, lifting it slightly from the plate. The dish is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Oven Baked BBQ Chicken with Homemade Sauce, easy baked BBQ chicken, homemade BBQ sauce recipe, juicy baked chicken thighs, simple oven chicken recipes this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together beautifully to build a BBQ sauce that’s tangy, sweet, and full of depth without any complicated steps. Make sure you grab good-quality chicken thighs or drumsticks for the best flavor and juiciness.

Flat lay of fresh bone-in chicken thighs with skin on, two brown eggs (whole and uncracked), a small white ceramic bowl of bright red ketchup, a small white bowl of clear apple cider vinegar, a small white bowl of dark Worcestershire sauce, a small white bowl filled with golden brown sugar, a small white bowl of pale yellow mustard powder, a small white bowl with finely ground onion powder, a small white bowl of coarse sea salt, a small white bowl with cracked black pepper, a small white bowl of clear water, and a small bunch of fresh green parsley and chives arranged neatly, all placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997 - Oven Baked BBQ Chicken with Homemade Sauce, easy baked BBQ chicken, homemade BBQ sauce recipe, juicy baked chicken thighs, simple oven chicken recipes
  • Ketchup: The base of your sauce; I use regular ketchup or tomato sauce if you’re in Australia or the UK—adds that classic tomato tang.
  • Apple cider vinegar: Brings a bright zing that balances the sweetness perfectly.
  • Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory, umami depth to the BBQ sauce—don’t skip it!
  • Brown sugar: Sweetens and helps caramelize the sauce during baking and broiling.
  • Mustard powder: Gives a subtle spicy kick without overpowering.
  • Onion powder: Boosts the savory flavor in a gentle way.
  • Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to make everything pop.
  • Water: Loosens the sauce to create a great braising liquid for the chicken.
  • Chicken (thighs, drumsticks, or wings): I always use bone-in, skin-on for that rich flavor and crispy skin.
  • Fresh parsley or chives (or green onions): For a fresh, colorful garnish that brightens the plate.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love making this recipe my own depending on the season or what my family’s craving. Don’t be afraid to tweak it—you’ll find it’s incredibly forgiving.

  • Spicy Kick: Sometimes I toss in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce into the BBQ sauce for a smoky, spicy variation that my kids surprisingly love.
  • Healthier Option: Using skinless chicken thighs helps reduce fat if you’re watching calories but still want that juicy texture.
  • Different Cuts: I’ve used wings or drumsticks instead and they work just as wonderfully. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if you use smaller pieces.
  • Herb Twist: Fresh rosemary or thyme stirred into the sauce before baking adds a lovely earthy note.

How to Make Oven Baked BBQ Chicken with Homemade Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Sauce and Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (390°F)—this gets it nice and hot for baking. In a ceramic or glass baking dish (this helps the sauce develop flavor and not react with metals), mix together ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and water. Stir well until the sugar dissolves. Add the chicken pieces to the dish and turn them in the sauce to coat thoroughly. Arrange them skin side down so that side gets a good soak and a head start on cooking.

Step 2: Bake and Baste for Juicy Perfection

Bake the chicken uncovered for 20 minutes, then take it out and carefully turn each piece over. Spoon some of the sauce from the dish over the chicken to baste. Back in the oven it goes for another 30 minutes. This slow braising in the sauce is where the magic happens, making the meat tender and the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 3: Broil to Caramelize That Glaze

Once the chicken is cooked through, tilt the pan slightly and spoon off any excess fat—this step is optional but I find it helps the glaze stick better and reduces greasiness. Now switch your oven to the broiler/grill setting on high. Generously spoon more sauce over the chicken pieces, then pop the dish under the broiler just long enough (2-3 minutes) for the sauce to bubble, thicken, and caramelize into that sticky, golden crust. Watch closely here—this happens fast and you want to avoid burning.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley, chives, or green onions over the chicken and serve it immediately. This completes the dish with a fresh color and a hint of brightness that balances the rich sauce.

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Pro Tips for Making Oven Baked BBQ Chicken with Homemade Sauce Recipe

  • Use a Glass or Ceramic Dish: I found that baking in non-reactive dishes preserves the true flavor of the sauce without metallic notes.
  • Don’t Skip the Broil: The broiler step adds that irresistible sticky, caramelized finish—it’s the difference between good and unforgettable BBQ chicken.
  • Watch Closely when Broiling: That glaze can go from perfect to burnt in seconds, so stay near and keep your eyes on it.
  • Baste for Juiciness: Turning and spooning sauce over the chicken midway improves flavor penetration and keeps the meat moist.

How to Serve Oven Baked BBQ Chicken with Homemade Sauce Recipe

A white plate shows a thick layer of smooth white mashed potatoes on the left side, topped with a glossy brown sauce that pools around the dish. On top of the potatoes sits a piece of cooked meat covered in the same brown sauce, with a slice cut to reveal the inside texture. Behind the meat, there is a row of green beans and bright red cherry tomato halves scattered around, garnished with small pieces of chopped onions. The plate rests on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Oven Baked BBQ Chicken with Homemade Sauce, easy baked BBQ chicken, homemade BBQ sauce recipe, juicy baked chicken thighs, simple oven chicken recipes

Garnishes

I always find fresh herbs like parsley, chopped chives, or thinly sliced green onions add a lovely pop of color and freshness that balances the rich BBQ sauce beautifully. Plus, it just makes the plate look so inviting.

Side Dishes

My go-to sides with this Oven Baked BBQ Chicken with Homemade Sauce Recipe are creamy mashed potatoes and a crisp green bean salad—it’s just the right mix of comforting and fresh. Cornbread or grilled veggies work wonderfully too for an easy, crowd-pleasing meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to serve the chicken stacked on a rustic wooden board with plenty of fresh herb sprigs piled on top—invite everyone to dig in family-style. Adding small ramekins of extra homemade BBQ sauce on the side is always a hit for dipping!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, I transfer the chicken and sauce into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so the leftovers taste even better the next day.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this chicken successfully a couple of times by wrapping portions tightly and freezing in freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 180°C (350°F) covered loosely with foil to keep moisture in, for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can spoon extra sauce over before reheating to freshen it up. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that lovely texture and glaze intact.

FAQs

  1. Can I use boneless chicken for this Oven Baked BBQ Chicken with Homemade Sauce Recipe?

    Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs or breasts, but keep in mind that boneless cuts tend to cook faster and can dry out if overcooked. I recommend adjusting the baking time down by 10-15 minutes and watching closely to keep the chicken juicy.

  2. Is it necessary to broil the chicken at the end?

    While not absolutely necessary, broiling really elevates the dish by caramelizing the sauce and giving the chicken a lovely sticky, golden glaze. It adds texture and flavor that’s worth the few extra minutes and effort.

  3. Can I make the homemade BBQ sauce in advance?

    Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. The flavors deepen over time, and it makes meal prep super quick when you’re ready to bake the chicken.

  4. How do I avoid the chicken skin getting soggy?

    Placing the chicken skin side down at first helps the skin start crisping up. Also, broiling at the end helps caramelize and slightly crisp the skin. Avoid covering the chicken when baking so the skin doesn’t steam and stay soggy.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Oven Baked BBQ Chicken with Homemade Sauce Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites for a reason—it’s foolproof, packed with flavor, and perfect for when you want that homemade BBQ vibe without firing up the grill. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this chicken will get you all the compliments with minimal effort. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation just like I did. So go ahead, grab that chicken, and get ready for a taste explosion! You’ve got this.

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Oven Baked BBQ Chicken with Homemade Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 83 reviews
  • Author: Jaden
  • Prep Time: 10 min
  • Cook Time: 50 min
  • Total Time: 60 min
  • Yield: 5 – 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
Print Recipe

Description

This Oven Baked BBQ Chicken recipe offers a quick and easy way to enjoy sticky, flavorful chicken indoors without firing up the grill. Using a homemade barbecue sauce packed with tangy, sweet, and savory ingredients, the chicken is braised and baked to juicy perfection with a caramelized glaze. Perfectly suited for a comforting family dinner, this dish is garnished with fresh herbs and pairs wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes and green bean salad.

Ingredients

BBQ Sauce Ingredients

  • 1 cup ketchup (or Australian/UK tomato sauce)
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
  • 4 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 tsp mustard powder
  • 2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp fresh black pepper
  • 1 cup water

Chicken

  • 1.5 kg / 3 lb chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on), drumsticks, or wings

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chives, or finely chopped green onions (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 200°C (390°F) to ready it for baking the chicken and developing the BBQ sauce flavors.
  2. Prepare the Sauce: In a ceramic or glass baking dish, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and water. Stir thoroughly to blend all sauce ingredients.
  3. Coat the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the baking dish and turn them to coat evenly with the sauce. Arrange the chicken skin side down for cooking.
  4. Bake First Phase: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake the chicken for 20 minutes to allow initial cooking and flavor infusion.
  5. Turn and Sauce: Remove the dish from the oven, turn each piece of chicken over, and spoon more sauce over the top to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
  6. Bake Second Phase: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, continuing to develop tender chicken and a sticky glaze.
  7. Remove Excess Fat: Carefully tilt the pan to one side and use a spoon to skim off any excess fat from the sauce, if desired, for a leaner finish.
  8. Broil for Caramelization: Switch your oven to broil/grill on high. Spoon sauce generously over the chicken pieces again, then place the dish under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes. Watch closely to caramelize the sauce without burning, creating a sticky, flavorful crust.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley, chives, or chopped green onions if using. Serve immediately with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or green bean salad.

Notes

  • This recipe is a great indoor alternative when you’re craving BBQ chicken without using an outdoor grill.
  • The homemade barbecue sauce is infused with rich flavors from chicken juices while baking, resulting in a deliciously sticky glaze.
  • Be vigilant during broiling since the sauce can caramelize quickly and burn if left unattended.
  • For best results, use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces to retain moisture and flavor.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 256 g
  • Calories: 392 kcal
  • Sugar: 20 g
  • Sodium: 655 mg
  • Fat: 17 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 24 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 33 g
  • Cholesterol: 168 mg
Avatar photo

Hey everyone! I'm Jaden, and welcome to YummyHere! Basically, I'm obsessed with food. Like, really obsessed. So, I figured, why not share all my yummy creations with the world? Hopefully, you'll find something here that makes you say "Yum!" (because that's the goal, right?). Let's get cooking!

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