A simple yet mouthwatering Honey BBQ Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe.
I’m sorry it’s been quiet around her for a couple of weeks. I’ve been blogging for a very long time, yet it’s taken me this long to realize something about myself…
When I have personal things going on in my life I either can’t wait to come here and pour my words out to you, or I shut down completely, and can’t seem to write at all. Recently, the latter is what’s happened.
It’s been a rough couple of weeks (spoiler alert – all is well now)… for those of you who don’t know, my mom was taken into the hospital a week ago Friday after I had a distressing phone call with her. She wasn’t talking right…her words were very muddled and slow and she was getting frustrated trying to get words out. I finally said “Mom, I think you’ve had a stroke” and she then said “I think so too”. She was alone at the time but my aunt and uncle who live nearby went over as soon as I contacted them and she was taken immediately to the hospital.
Now, mind you, my parents are a 16+ hour drive away from us…so I was feeling quite helpless here in Kansas City. By Saturday, my mom’s condition had worsened so much that my siblings and I felt like we might need to go and tell her goodbye. It was a scary, emotional day… but miraculously thanks to tons of prayers and amazing doctors, my mom has made incredible strides towards recovery!
She’s in a rehab hospital and the work they are doing with her has amazed me so much. At the beginning of this week she couldn’t write her name, had completely failed her cognitive test (Example: she could only think of one word that started with the letter S in 5 minutes), she couldn’t walk, still was having trouble talking, etc. I spoke with her yesterday and it was like having a normal, back to her old self conversation with her! I was SO happy, you guys. I can’t express how scared I was there for awhile.
On top of my moms condition, my mammogram came back with an “area of concern” so I had to go back in on Wednesday for more tests. By the time the doctor escalated me to the 3rd test that morning, I was convinced I had breast cancer (and honestly really scared). Turns out I have a common thing called Fibrocystic Breasts, and will be just fine. (I know…TMI for a food blog).
Add to all of this the end of school year chaos (we have two days left!!) and you can imagine I’ve been a bit overwhelmed!
But the good news is all of that is mostly behind me…and I feel like I can cook and write again. I’ve missed you!
So, a baked chicken thighs recipe may not be the perfect tie in to my story above, but it really actually is. When I get back to cooking meals for my family, it means things are starting to get somewhat back to normal. If I’m out of the kitchen for too long, you can guess life is pretty crappy right then…but being back in the kitchen, fixing my family meals we love, and sitting around together at the dinner table each night is my sanctuary. I need it, so I was happy to return to status quo this week, putting the stress of the past couple weeks behind me!
This boneless chicken thighs recipe is baked in the oven and is brushed with a sauce that caramelizes so beautifully… the baked chicken thighs come out tender and juicy every single time. All the work, which is hardly any, is done up front and you can simply stick the chicken in the oven and go on and get other things ready for dinner while they bake.
I hope you enjoy this recipe – thanks so much for being here!
What to serve with BBQ Baked Chicken Thighs
- This Mashed Potatoes Recipe is a perfect pairing – from Will Cook for Smiles
- Almond Peach Summer Salad with Peach Vinaigrette is a great way to get your veggies in
- Dinner Rolls from Mom on Timeout round out this meal nicely
Honey BBQ Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 teaspoons mustard
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F
- Line a baking sheet with tin foil and spray with non stick cooking spray.
- Place the chicken on the prepared baking sheet and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl combine the rest of the ingredients until well blended.
- Using a basting brush, brush chicken with sauce. Place in the oven and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove chicken thighs from the oven and turn each piece over using tongs. Brush the other side of the chicken and place back in the oven for an additional 20 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Here are some additional chicken thighs recipes from around the web:
- General Tso’s Chicken Thighs Recipe from Fabtastic Eats
- Orange Balsamic Glazed Grilled Chicken Thighs from Sweet Treats and More
- Teriyaki Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe from Dine & Dish
- One Pot Paprika Chicken Thighs Recipe from The Reluctant Entertainer
Jessica @ Golden Brown and Delicious says
Thinking of you and your family! Glad to hear everything is well with your mom. I can’t imagine how scary that must have been, and being so far away must be frustrating. So glad she’s getting better!
Kristen says
Thank you so much, Jessica. Yes! Them being so far away has been hard and I imagine will continue to be hard. Maybe one of these days they’ll decide to move back home!
Thanks for your kind words!
Liz @ The Lemon Bowl says
I’m so happy to hear your mom is on the mend!! I remember living far away in Boston and feeling so helpless at times. And thank goodness your mammogram came back clear!! Isn’t it funny how sometimes the worst situations turn out to be a blessing because they help us appreciate status quo?
Kristen says
So true, Liz… it’s those panic moments that help me put things into perspective some! Thanks for the text support too – it helped 🙂
Liz says
A lovely recipe. Thank you. Take care of yourself – maybe try some meditation or yoga. So much stress in life.
Kristen says
Thank you, Liz… yoga would be a really good idea!!
Amy @ Thoroughly Nourished Life says
I’m so glad that everything has turned around. I’m sorry that the past few weeks have been tumultuous for you, and I really hope there is smoother sailing ahead. It sounds like your Mum is doing well and it is so wonderful that she has the care of great doctors and the love of her family.
Keeping the whole dine and dish family in my thoughts and sending you wishes for a carefree summer 🙂
Kristen says
You are the sweetest, Amy – thank you so much! I hope the same for you 🙂
Meg @ The Housewife in Training Files says
Thinking of you and your family, Kristen! And I am the same way, when I have multiple things on my plate to juggle, I am not great at any of them. I am just trying to get it all done but half ass it all. I am glad you were able to step away and spend time with your family; what matters!
And BBQ chicken thighs sound right up our alley! Perfect for our Memorial Day BBQ!
Kristen says
Thanks, Meg! By the way… I am so so so thrilled for you! Can’t wait for you to get back so we can celebrate all your good news!
Toni | BoulderLocavore says
Gosh Kristen I’m so sorry you’ve had to endure all of this. It’s so scary when a family member is going through something and it might completely alter life as you know it AND you aren’t able to be there. The health scares? I think especially as the mother of smaller children, it puts a whole new layer of fear and dread in the picture. And waiting for the results? Tick, tock; every minute feels 45 days long. Here’s wishing you sunny days, lots of naps and relief.
Kristen says
Oh my gosh, Toni… you are so right! Having children in the picture changes everything! So thankful everything was ok…
Luckily the doctor was able to read all the results right then and the tests, although seemed like they took forever, were pretty quick. I can’t imagine having to wait days and days to find out the results of something like that though!
Susan says
when it rains it pours!So sorry you had to go through all of that, Kristen! Sending love and light! xxx
Kristen says
Much love, friend! Thank you!! Hope you are well 🙂
Dee says
Missed you too! SO glad to hear that things took a turn for the better for you and your mom.
Kristen says
Awww thank you, Dee! That means a lot!
Anna @ Crunchy Creamy Sweet says
Oh, Kristen! That’s all so scary – your mom and being so far away and the mammogram tests. So happy to hear that everything is going in the right direction! Happy to see you back and with a fantastic recipe! Sending hugs!!
Kristen says
Talk about fantastic recipe? I just got done drooling over your most recent one! So so good!
Robert M says
I am glad that your mother is getting better now. The honey BBQ baked chicken thighs does look good. I will make this recipe when I have a chance.
Kristen says
Thank you so much, Robert! I hope you like it as much as we did!
Sues says
I’m glad to hear things are getting better for you- that is so scary about your mom, but really good to hear she’s doing better! This chicken looks like the perfect comfort food 🙂
Kristen says
Comfort food at its finest, for sure! Well, if you don’t count chocolate cake 😉
Heather says
I turned to food and God for comfort when my MIL had her stroke. My husband and I had just gotten married and we were pregnant with Adella at the time. It was CRAZY scary. Immediately after her stroke, she suffered a massive organ shut down. Her kidneys just stopped working. She went into a coma for quite a while. We were told she wouldn’t ever come out, then told she wouldn’t be more than a vegetable, then told this and told that … we just kept praying and praying. She is now preparing to celebrate 62 birthday and is doing great. There are a couple things she can’t do but she has become content with them. I have fallen silent on my blog due to problems in my life and I understand. It is where we should be able to come and release … but sometimes, the comfort of our own personal friends and family is what we crave. There isn’t anything wrong with that, but we have missed you here too 🙂
Kristen says
Oh Heather – that would be such a scary time to have all that happening! Such great news about her current state though. God is good! (PS – did you know my parents are mormon too?)
Heather says
I did NOT know that. Small world 🙂 BTW – just know that you can PM me for my phone number. If you ever need any support or just to talk … I’m here. 🙂
Kathryn says
I’m so sorry to hear that you’ve had such a tough few weeks but I’m so glad that everyone is on the road to recovery. I hope the end of school isn’t too crazy for you guys and you get a chance to recharge and recover after everything you’ve been through.
Kristen says
Thank you so much, Kathryn! I am sooooo ready for summer, even though I haven’t planned a single thing for us yet! I can’t wait!
beverley press says
So pleased to hear you are both are in good health now. I do understand how you feel as I lost my sister to Kidney cancer in January this year. She loved spending time in the garden while her husband Brad cooked on the BBQ. I’m going to pass this recipe on to him to make in memory of Julie. Thank you for sharing Kristen xoxo
Kristen says
Oh Beverley, I am so sorry. I lost my brother to cancer almost 4 years ago (not sure how it’s been that long)… it’s one of the hardest things. Please let me know if you need anything!
Beverley says
Thank you for your kind reply just continue writing your lovely Blog for all to enjoy xoxo
Donalyn@The Creekside Cook says
Oh my Kristen – I had the exact same convo with my Mom a few weeks ago! My dad took her right to the ER and she was diagnosed with a mini-stroke, probably caused by some of her medications. This was only a couple days after I had returned home after visiting them – they are in AZ and I’m in NY, so it was so frustrating. I’ve been praying for your Mom, and I hope that she continues to make progress – it is truly amazing what they can do for someone who has had a stroke.
Kristen says
So the crazy thing is, (everything happens for a reason) is my mom’s was probably due to some of her meds too… and the good thing is her being in the hospital they’ve been able to figure out her medication situation and hopefully she’ll be much better from now on!
I’m glad your mom is doing better… darn parents!
Gina says
Oh wow that’s a lot happening. I’m soooooo happy to hear your mom is doing better & that you are okay as well. My prayers are still with you as always. Hugs!!
Kristen says
Thank you so much, friend! I hope you are well too 🙂
Kari says
These look so good! I am so glad things are going better.
Kari
http://www.sweetteasweetie.com
Kristen says
Thanks so much, Kari! It’s nice to have things get somewhat back to normal 🙂 I hope your week is going well!
Nicole Lindstrom | Simply Happenstance says
So glad Kristen she is doing better. That phone call and the feeling of helplessness must have been agonizing. Keep us posted on her rehab. Glad all is well…loving this recipe. Hang in there. xoxo-Nicole
Kristen says
It’s really hard having them so far away – I’m hoping they eventually realize that and come back home! 🙂
Tina says
I was curious what kind of mustard do you use in the recipe? This looks so delicious I want to try it tonight. Thank you.
Kristen says
Ack Tina, I’m sorry! I was offline yesterday. I just used regular French’s Mustard!
Joanie @ ZagLeft says
I’m so glad your mom is doing better. It’s so hard and scary at times when we live far away from family. I’m also happy your tests came back okay, going back for second and third testings are not fun and can really make you worry. So glad things are going well and you can get started with your summer. I love this easy recipe, the sauce looks fantastic!
Kristen says
Thank you so much, Joanie!
Carol at Wild Goose Mama says
Wow you have been thru the emotional wringer. Really! I am glad this story has a happy ending. Both medical situations—SCARY!!!!! Belated Hugs—– You bounced back like a real trooper food blogger—laughing—with
a fab rather cheerful recipe—-well maybe not so cheerful for the chicken—-but I found it uplifting and delicious.
Kristen says
Hahaha – yes the chickens ending wasn’t so happy, but it at least it was in a really good recipe!
Diana says
Should I leave the chicken covered or uncovered?
Kristen says
Hi Diana – uncovered is what I do 🙂
Suzy @ The Mediterranean Dish says
Wow! You had a tough couple of weeks. So glad to hear things are well. And glad too you can be back to your blog,
This chicken recipe looks absolutely delicious! Perfect for this weekend.
Liz says
So glad you are fine and stop worrying because this condition has been IN MY LIFE FOR A VERY LONG TIME AND I AM STILL FINE. Thank you for he nice recipe and keep smiling.
Robert M says
I made this tonight. I used the exact directions. It came out delicious! I enjoyed it!
Melinda Bobmanuel says
I’m attempting this recipe. thank you for sharing.
Carley Corbett says
Hello I was wondering what I could use as a mustard substitute. Thank you!
Kristen says
Hi Carley –
If you don’t like mustard, you can actually just leave it out all together! Maybe add a tad more BBQ sauce, but the mustard is only 2 teaspoons so shouldn’t make a huge difference in the amount of sauce.
Hope that helps!
Kristen
Liz says
Hi! I made this recipe last night for my family and I had to make one little change b/c I overestimated my stock of honey so I added about 1/4 cup of orange marmalade to make up for it. Everyone loved it, even my husband who “hates” chicken thighs. I did reserve some of the sauce for dipping before I started basting, it was so good and my kiddos love to dip. It was a great success, a great recipe, thank you! =)
Kristen says
I love that idea!! Thanks for the tip!
Debbie says
I am so glad to hear your family is on the road to recovery. May the Lord continue to watch over all of you.
Thank you for the recipe. I plan to make it tonight. I’m sure it will turn out wonderful like all of your recipes that I made.
Thank you. You and your family are in my prayers.
Jesus 666 says
recipe ok, but when the general public looks on-line for recipes…..we want recipes; not to know your personal story. Frankly, most of us don’t care.
Kristen says
Then maybe you should look at recipe database sites, not a blog. A blog is: noun. an online diary; a personal chronological log of thoughts published on a Web page. Your free recipe is just an added bonus. If you don’t like it, don’t come back. Thanks.
Emma says
Do you cut the thighs up before cooking them, or cook them whole??
Kristen says
Hi! I use the boneless skinless chicken thighs, just as they are. If they have fat or the white tendons on them, I do trim that, but otherwise, just as they are! Thanks!
Tina says
Hey–I’m trying this tonight–what would you suggest serving with it as side dishes? Thanks.
Tina says
This was delicious! One of the best chicken recipes I’ve ever tasted and I have tried ALOT of chicken recipes! Thank you so much for sharing the recipe! 🙂
Kristen says
You just made my day. I’m so glad you loved it as much as we do! Thanks for letting me know 🙂
Kathleen says
I love the recipe! I made it in a cast iron pan and it was fantastic, huge hit with my picky kiddos. Definitely adding to my rotation. Thank you!
Kristen says
This recipe looks amazing, and I can’t wait to try it!!! And I pray your mother is getting better and for a full recovery!!!
Gillian says
Would these work on the BBQ instead of over?
Renee says
I made this tonight and it was VERY delicious! It’s definitely a keeper. Thanks so much for sharing.
Ame says
I have a lot of whole bone in chicken legs that I would like to try this on. How long would you recommend baking them. Thanks
Nicole says
We used this recipe as a marinade for our chicken thighs tonight. I left out the hot sauce because my kids don’t like it, but did everything else as called for. We marinated the chicken for about three hours and then grilled it. It was DELICIOUS! We have found a new favorite!
Brianna says
Does the skin come out crispy?
bri says
May be a silly question. Don’t have honey, could I substitute it with grape jelly. Seen a lot of other recipes with that. If not is there anything else I can use?
Helen says
That was DELICIOUS, served with creamy mash, peas, and corn, my kids inhaled everything on the plate! Thank you so much for posting 🙂
Kristen says
I’m so glad you liked it, Helen! Thanks so much for letting me know!
Kristen says
Loved this! Added a few a of my own seasonings to the chicken and added a splash of ACV to the sauce fox extra flavor. After finished baking, broiled on HIGH 1 minute each side and they were delicious!
Destiny says
I accidentally bought a BBQ sauce that was really awful, but I stumbled on this and it made the sauce 100% better!
As a college student still learning how to cook, thank you!
Lindsey says
I made this for my boyfriend and I tonight and we loved it! I eyeballed the measurements for the sauce and broiled the thighs for about two minutes after the chicken was done, thanks to another reader’s tip. Kudos! I am definitely making this again, and I think I found my go to barbecue sauce. Thanks so much!
Angelina says
Thanks so much!. This was delicious!!
Corrina says
Thanks for the tasty & easy recipe. Glad I found you! Wonderful news about your mother. Thanks for sharing your story. God bless.
Bonnie says
Stumbled upon this recipe trying to find something new to make with my boneless skinless chicken thighs. So glad I did, my husband absolutely loved this recipe told me he can’t wait until I make it again. Great recipe thanks for sharing
Karin says
Family loved the chicken thigh oven bbq chicken!
Colleen says
Thank you for the recipe, the chicken came out great!
My fiancé asked me to please make this again.
Michele says
My mother in law makes awesome BBQ chicken thighs that my kids absolutely love and inhale. Thanks to this simple recipe, they loved mine too! They love the boneless, skinless version. My 8 year old ate 7 thighs!
Thanks.
Christina. says
This was amazing. Thank you. My 22 month old devoured these as did my husband and myself. I rarely write out a recipie and often loose it in my phone or forget to save it but I made Se tonight and have already written it out. Thank you so much.
Patti says
I have thighs in the oven right now and sampled the sauce after I mixed it up omg I just know this recipe is going in my personal cookbook I’m making for my kids I’m excited to eat dinner tonight.
Kristen says
I’m so happy! I hope your family enjoyed it as much as we do!
Mel says
Is that prepared mustard OR granulated mustard?
Kristen says
Hi! It’s prepared mustard. Thank you!
Marisol says
Can you use honey BBQ sauce.
Kristen says
Hi! I don’t see why you couldn’t. Thanks!
Lina says
Thank you very much for posting this recipe! It was delicious!!! I’m always looking for new ways to serve boneless, skinless chicken thighs and this recipe is a keeper! My family loved it!!
gina says
Have a quick question. Seems like a lot of sauce for 6 thighs. Is the amounts correct
Marisol says
Can you use Honey BBq sauce
Rachel says
Just made this and it was delicious! I added a bit more hot sauce but otherwise followed the exact recipe and served it with brown rice and corn 🙂
Linda says
Didn’t care for this recipe. Way too much sauce for the amount of chicken – ended up throwing most of it away. Also watch the cooking time – unless you have really large chicken thighs, 40 minutes total is too long.
Carrian Cheney says
GIRL!!! THese look amazing!!
Kristen says
Thank you so much, friend! It’s definitely a favorite around here.
Cindy says
This is my new favorite way to cook thighs! This recipe is delicious!
Christin@SpicySouthernKitchen says
I love the spicy-sweetness in this recipe! Such a great way to cook chicken thighs!
Mandy @ South Your Mouth says
I LOVE thighs and these look amazing! Thank you for sharing your recipe!
Beth Pierce says
Made these last night for the family! They loved them! Thanks for the fabulous recipe!!
Kristen says
Wonderful! So glad you enjoyed them and thanks for letting me know!