This Easy Sticky Spicy BBQ Chicken is a fun and tasty dish that everyone will love! It combines sweet, spicy, and finger-licking goodness all in one handy recipe.
You’ll enjoy how the chicken becomes juicy and covered in a yummy sauce. I like to serve it with rice or a fresh salad, but honestly, it’s so good you’ll want to eat it straight off the grill! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using bone-in, skin-on thighs because they stay juicy and flavorful while cooking. If you prefer a leaner option, bone-in, skinless chicken breasts can also work, but they might dry out quicker.
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce for convenience. You can make it your own by adding extra spices! If you need a sugar-free option, look for BBQ sauces without added sugar or make your own using tomato paste and vinegar.
Honey or Brown Sugar: Both add stickiness and a bit of sweetness. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, try maple syrup or agave nectar instead.
Hot Sauce/Chili Paste: Adjust the heat to your liking! If you don’t have any, crushed red pepper flakes can also spice things up. For a milder flavor, use a sweet chili sauce instead.
How Do I Get Perfectly Crispy Skin on My Chicken?
Crispy skin is the ultimate goal! Start with dry chicken; moisture prevents browning. Here are steps for the perfect sear:
- Heat your pan or grill until it’s hot – you want that sizzle when the chicken hits the surface.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give the chicken space to cook evenly.
- Let the chicken cook undisturbed for the first few minutes to allow the skin to crisp up.
- Use medium-high heat; if it’s too high, the skin may burn before cooking through.
By following these tips, you’ll achieve that delicious crispy skin that’s perfect for your sticky spicy BBQ chicken!
Easy Sticky Spicy BBQ Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs (about 8 pieces) chicken thighs, skin-on, bone-in
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar (for stickiness and sweetness)
- 1-2 tablespoons hot sauce or chili paste (adjust depending on spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish requires about 15 minutes of preparation time and 25-30 minutes of cooking in the oven. If you decide to finish off on the grill, add a few more minutes. In total, you’ll be ready to enjoy this flavorful chicken in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by rinsing the chicken thighs under cold water, then pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to ensure they get crispy while cooking. Season them thoroughly on both sides with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if you want that extra kick!
2. Make the Spicy BBQ Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, honey (or brown sugar), and hot sauce or chili paste. Stir well until combined and smooth. This sauce is where all your flavor will come from, so make it as spicy or sweet as you like!
3. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the chicken thighs in the pan skin-side down and let them sear for about 4-5 minutes or until the skin is nice and crispy. Flip the chicken over and sear the other side for another 3 minutes. This method locks in all the juicy goodness!
4. Bake with Sauce:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the seared chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with foil or in a baking dish. Generously brush the spicy BBQ sauce over the chicken. This will create that sticky, flavorful glaze as it cooks!
5. Cook Time:
Pop the chicken into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Be sure to baste the chicken with more sauce halfway through cooking. You’ll know the chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the sauce is caramelized and sticky.
6. Finish on the Grill (Optional):
If you want that extra smoky flavor, transfer the chicken to a hot grill for a few minutes on each side after baking. Brush on additional BBQ sauce while grilling for even more flavor!
7. Serve:
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking, then dig in! Serve your sticky, spicy BBQ chicken hot with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, corn on the cob, or grilled veggies.
Enjoy your easy, finger-licking sticky spicy BBQ chicken!
FAQ for Easy Sticky Spicy BBQ Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! You can substitute bone-in, skinless chicken breasts, but keep in mind they may not be as juicy as thighs. If using breasts, watch the cooking time closely to prevent them from drying out!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
To make the dish milder, you can reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and use less hot sauce or chili paste. On the other hand, for extra heat, add more hot sauce or even some crushed red pepper flakes to the BBQ sauce mixture!
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken in the BBQ sauce mixture a few hours ahead or overnight for even more flavor. Just make sure to store it in the fridge until ready to cook!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through, basting with a bit more sauce if desired!
