Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken to help the seasoning stick and to encourage browning.
- Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer in a baking dish or on a rimmed baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Initial Baking
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This initial bake starts the cooking process and helps ensure that the chicken will be fully cooked by the end.
Step 3: Prepare the Barbecue Sauce
- Mix together the barbecue sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and chili powder in a bowl. Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more honey for sweetness or chili powder for heat as desired.
Step 4: Apply the Barbecue Sauce
- Remove the chicken from the oven after the initial 25 minutes of baking. The chicken won’t be fully cooked yet.
- Brush a generous amount of the barbecue sauce over each piece of chicken, covering all sides. Reserve some sauce for a second coating.
Step 5: Continue Baking
- Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is caramelized. Chicken is done when a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C).
- Halfway through the remaining baking time, brush the chicken with the remaining barbecue sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Step 6: Broil for a Crispy Finish (Optional)
- Broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end of the cooking time if you desire a more caramelized, crispy exterior. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even more tender.
- Serve the baked barbecue chicken hot, with extra barbecue sauce on the side if desired.
Closing Thoughts
This baked barbecue chicken recipe is a foolproof way to achieve moist, tender chicken with a flavorful, sticky coating of barbecue sauce. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides, such as coleslaw, baked beans, corn on the cob, or a fresh salad. Enjoy the process of making this delicious meal and the pleasure of sharing it with family and friends.