Save Succulent oven-baked chicken thighs glazed in sticky honey BBQ sauce are paired with creamy garlic mashed potatoes, making this meal comforting and packed with flavor. It's a simple yet impressive main dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
I first made these honey BBQ chicken thighs for a backyard dinner and was amazed how quickly the pan emptied. The creamy garlic mashed potatoes rounded out the meal, and the kids loved getting the sauce on everything!
Ingredients
- Chicken Thighs: 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Olive Oil: 1 tbsp
- Smoked Paprika: 1 tsp
- Garlic Powder: 1 tsp
- Onion Powder: 1 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black Pepper: 1/2 tsp
- BBQ Sauce: 1/2 cup (use gluten-free if needed)
- Honey: 3 tbsp
- Apple Cider Vinegar: 1 tbsp
- Dijon Mustard: 1 tsp
- Yukon Gold Potatoes: 2 lbs (900g), peeled and cut into chunks
- Garlic Cloves: 4, peeled
- Whole Milk: 1/2 cup, warmed (or use dairy-free alternative)
- Unsalted Butter: 1/4 cup (or substitute with olive oil for dairy-free)
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black Pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Chopped Fresh Chives: 2 tbsp, optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Season the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub the mixture over the chicken thighs.
- Bake Chicken:
- Arrange chicken thighs, skin side up, on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes.
- Prepare Honey BBQ Sauce:
- Meanwhile, in a bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
- Glaze and Finish Baking:
- After 25 minutes, brush chicken thighs generously with the honey BBQ sauce. Return to oven and bake an additional 15 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C) and sauce is caramelized.
- Cook Potatoes and Garlic:
- While the chicken is baking, place potatoes and garlic cloves in a large pot. Cover with cold, salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-18 minutes.
- Mash Potatoes:
- Drain potatoes and garlic well. Return to pot. Add warm milk, butter, salt, and black pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Stir in chopped chives if using.
- Serve:
- Serve honey BBQ chicken thighs hot, alongside creamy garlic mashed potatoes.
Save This meal quickly became a family favorite at our Sunday dinners. Everyone loves piling creamy potatoes under the sweet, tangy chicken and asking for seconds.
Required Tools
Baking sheet, mixing bowls, large pot, potato masher or ricer, brush for glazing, knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy and mustard. BBQ sauce may have gluten or soy—select versions as needed and always check product labels.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 520. Total Fat: 25 g. Carbohydrates: 44 g. Protein: 31 g.
Save This comforting combo is guaranteed to please everyone at the table and makes even an ordinary weeknight feel special. Try it once, and it may become your go-to.
Kitchen Q&A
- → How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Pat the chicken dry before seasoning and avoid overcooking by monitoring internal temperature, aiming for 165°F (74°C) for perfect juiciness.
- → Can I use boneless chicken instead?
Yes, boneless cuts can be used but reduce baking time accordingly to avoid drying out the meat.
- → How can I make the mashed potatoes creamier?
Use warm milk and softened butter or olive oil, then mash thoroughly until smooth for silky texture.
- → Is it possible to grill the chicken for extra flavor?
Absolutely, grilling after glazing adds a smoky char and enhances the honey BBQ glaze’s depth.
- → What can I add for a spicier glaze?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce to the honey BBQ mixture before brushing on the chicken.