Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, juicy, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This recipe for BBQ boneless chicken thighs is your new go-to for quick weeknight meals or impressive weekend gatherings. It's a healthy meal, packed with protein, and customizable to your taste. Forget takeout – homemade cooking has never been this simple and delicious!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup your favorite BBQ sauce (we recommend a smoky variety!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. Season generously with salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
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Marinate (optional but recommended): For extra flavor, let the seasoned chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
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Sear the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs and sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, until they are nicely browned.
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Simmer in BBQ sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low, pour in the BBQ sauce, and cover the skillet. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Flip the chicken halfway through to ensure even cooking.
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Serve and enjoy!: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and serve immediately. These delicious BBQ boneless chicken thighs are fantastic on their own, over rice, with roasted vegetables, or in a salad.
Cooking Tips for Perfectly BBQ Chicken Thighs:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature and prevent proper browning. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or add other spices to customize the flavor to your preference. A dash of brown sugar can add extra sweetness.
Variations:
- Spicy BBQ Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for extra heat.
- Sweet and Smoky BBQ Chicken: Add a tablespoon of brown sugar or honey to the BBQ sauce for a sweeter flavor profile.
- Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken: Replace half of the BBQ sauce with a honey garlic sauce for a unique twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used. This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
These easy recipes are perfect for busy weeknights and provide healthy meals the whole family will love. This recipe for BBQ boneless chicken thighs is a winner, offering a delicious and satisfying dish that showcases the best of homemade cooking. Try it today and elevate your dinner game!