Save Succulent oven-baked chicken thighs glazed in a sticky honey BBQ sauce are paired with creamy garlic mashed potatoes for a comforting and flavorful meal the whole family will enjoy.
I first made this dish on a cozy Sunday evening and was amazed by how the honey BBQ glaze added both sweetness and depth to the tender chicken thighs. The garlic mashed potatoes are always a hit—super creamy and full of flavor.
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 (choose 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: 4 cloves, peeled
- Whole Milk: 1/2 cup, warmed (use dairy-free alternative if needed)
- Unsalted Butter: 1/4 cup (or olive oil for dairy-free)
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black Pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Fresh Chives: 2 tbsp chopped, optional
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Prepare Chicken:
- Pat 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 chicken thighs.
- Bake Chicken:
- Arrange chicken thighs, skin side up, on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes.
- Make Honey BBQ Sauce:
- In a bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
- Glaze Chicken:
- Brush chicken thighs with honey BBQ sauce after 25 minutes. Return to oven and bake for another 15 minutes until cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C) and sauce is caramelized.
- Prepare Potatoes:
- While chicken bakes place potatoes and garlic in a large pot. Cover with cold salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until 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 chives if desired.
- Serve:
- Serve honey BBQ chicken thighs hot with creamy garlic mashed potatoes.
Save This is a recipe that brings everyone together around the table—my kids always ask for seconds and even picky eaters love the mashed potatoes.
Required Tools
Baking sheet, mixing bowls, large pot, potato masher or ricer, brush for glazing, knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (milk, butter) and mustard. BBQ sauce may include gluten or soy—check the label and use alternatives if allergic.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 520, Total Fat: 25 g, Carbohydrates: 44 g, Protein: 31 g
Save Serve this meal fresh with an extra drizzle of honey BBQ sauce for vibrant flavor. Your family will savor every bite.
Recipe Guide
- → How do I prevent the chicken skin from becoming soggy?
Ensure the chicken thighs are patted dry before seasoning and baking. Baking skin-side up on a lined sheet allows fat to render and skin to crisp.
- → Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?
Yes, boneless thighs can be used but reduce baking time accordingly to avoid drying out the meat.
- → How do I make the mashed potatoes extra creamy?
Use warm milk and soften butter while mashing for a smooth texture. Over-mashing can also help break down lumps.
- → Is it necessary to add chives to the mashed potatoes?
Chives add a mild onion flavor and color but can be omitted or replaced with fresh herbs to suit your preference.
- → Can I prepare the BBQ sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely, the honey BBQ sauce can be mixed a day before and stored in the refrigerator for enhanced flavors.