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Easy 4th of July Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Thighs Recipe for Perfect Summer BBQ

4th of July sheet pan BBQ chicken thighs - featured image

A quick and easy sheet pan BBQ chicken thighs recipe perfect for summer gatherings, delivering crispy skin, tender meat, and tangy BBQ flavor with minimal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (Sweet Baby Ray’s recommended or homemade)
  • 12 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt to taste (about 1 teaspoon)
  • Black pepper to taste (about ½ teaspoon)
  • Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for heat

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a rimmed sheet pan with foil for easy cleanup.
  2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, toss the chicken thighs with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well coated.
  4. Arrange the chicken thighs skin side up on the sheet pan. If using, place a wire rack on the pan and set the chicken on top for extra crispiness.
  5. Roast the chicken uncovered for 25 minutes until golden and smoky smelling.
  6. Remove the pan and brush about ¾ cup BBQ sauce evenly over each thigh.
  7. Return the pan to the oven and roast for an additional 10-15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the sauce is sticky and slightly charred.
  8. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry is essential for crispy skin. Apply BBQ sauce only in the last 10-15 minutes to prevent burning and achieve caramelization. Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness. Rest chicken before serving for juicy results. Rotate pan halfway if your oven heats unevenly.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ chicken thighs, sheet pan chicken, summer BBQ, easy chicken recipe, 4th of July recipe, crispy chicken skin, quick dinner