After a long day, the last thing I want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That’s where my One-Pan BBQ Chicken Thighs and Potatoes come to the rescue! The moment I pull this dish from the oven, the mouthwatering aroma of smoky BBQ fills my home, instantly making it feel cozy and inviting. Not only is this recipe a breeze to whip up, but it also means minimal dishes to wash—a true win for busy weeknights.
For less than $8, you can create a standout meal that the entire family will rave about. Each bite delivers tender, juicy chicken that practically falls off the bone, paired with fluffy, perfectly roasted potatoes that soak up all that delicious BBQ flavor. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together, whether for a casual family dinner or an impromptu gathering with friends. Let’s dive into this easy, budget-friendly recipe that’s guaranteed to spice up your dinner routine!
Why is BBQ Chicken Thighs with Roasted Potatoes Perfect?
Simplicity, this one-pan meal requires minimal prep and cleanup!
Flavor explosion, tender chicken infused with smoky BBQ richness combined with fluffy potatoes.
Budget-friendly, all this deliciousness comes in under $8!
Crowd pleaser, sure to satisfy both family and guests alike.
Versatile, easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or swapping in different proteins.
Transform your weeknight dinners with this easy dish that packs a tasty punch!
BBQ Chicken Thighs with Roasted Potatoes Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs – Juicy protein source; opt for skinless if preferred for less fat.
• Olive Oil – Provides moisture and helps browning; can be replaced with avocado oil.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; regular salt can be used, but adjust quantity as it’s more potent.
• Pepper – Adds spice; use cracked black pepper for more flavor intensity.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Offers mild heat; omit for a milder dish.
• BBQ Seasoning Blend – Imparts rich BBQ flavor; homemade or store-bought (Honey Hog recommended).
For the Potatoes
• Red Potatoes – Starchy base for heartiness; skin on for added texture and nutrients; substitute with Yukon gold if unavailable.
• Garlic Paste – Provides aromatic depth; substitute freshly minced garlic at a 1:1 ratio.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Adds umami flavor; can leave out if necessary.
Optional Ingredients
• BBQ Sauce – For serving; consider low-sugar options if watching sugar intake; enhances the overall flavor profile.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Thighs with Roasted Potatoes
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Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispiness on the chicken thighs and delightful tenderness in the potatoes.
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Arrange chicken thighs in a 9×13 baking dish, making sure they have space to breathe. Next, add the cut red potatoes around the chicken to soak up the delicious juices as they roast.
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Drizzle olive oil over both the chicken and potatoes. This will help everything brown beautifully and add moisture, ensuring each bite is succulent and delightful.
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Season generously! Sprinkle kosher salt, pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, BBQ seasoning, garlic paste, and Worcestershire sauce over the mixture. These flavors will meld together during cooking for a taste sensation!
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Toss everything gently to coat well, making sure that each chicken thigh and potato is beautifully seasoned. You can sprinkle a little extra seasoning on top for a flavor boost before baking.
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Bake in your preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), and the potatoes need to be tender when pierced with a fork.
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Serve hot, with BBQ sauce on the side if desired, for dipping and extra flavor enjoyment. Your family will love it!
Optional: Consider garnishing with fresh herbs for an added touch of flavor and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These BBQ Chicken Thighs with Roasted Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can season the chicken thighs and cut the potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep everything fresh and flavorful. To maintain quality, be sure to toss the chicken and potatoes in olive oil and seasoning before refrigerating, which helps lock in moisture and flavor. When you’re ready to cook, simply transfer them to your baking dish, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), and bake for 35 to 45 minutes as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal on busy weeknights with minimal effort!
What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Thighs with Roasted Potatoes?
Elevate your dining experience with these delightful accompaniments that beautifully complement your BBQ feast.
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Fresh Green Salad: A light, crisp salad balances the rich flavors of BBQ chicken and roasted potatoes, adding freshness to every bite. Toss in your favorite dressing for a delightful contrast.
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Garlic Bread: The buttery, toasted goodness of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the leftover BBQ juices. Plus, who doesn’t love the aroma of warm, garlicky bread?
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Coleslaw: This tangy, crunchy side dish offers a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken, bringing an appealing crunch that enhances your meal’s texture. The creamy dressing also complements the smoky flavors beautifully.
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Corn on the Cob: Sweet, summer corn pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken, evoking memories of backyard gatherings. Grilled or roasted, it brings a nostalgic crunch and sweetness that rounds out the dinner experience.
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Baked Beans: Hearty, sweet baked beans harmonize with the smokiness of the chicken, adding richness to the meal. They’re also a BBQ classic that no outdoor feast should be without!
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Iced Tea or Lemonade: A refreshing drink can make a big difference. Opt for sweet iced tea or homemade lemonade to complement the meal, offering a cooling contrast to the flavorful chicken and potatoes.
Indulge in these pairings, and you’ll have a vibrant, satisfying dinner that brings everyone to the table with smiles.
BBQ Chicken Thighs Variations
Feel free to get creative with this dish and discover the magic of customization!
- Different Proteins: Swap chicken thighs for drumsticks or chicken breasts; remember to adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in vibrant bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans for extra color and nutrition; they will roast beautifully alongside the chicken.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist; they will complement the BBQ flavor wonderfully.
- Sweet Heat: Blend in diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an irresistible kick; it’s perfect for spice lovers!
- Citrus Zing: Squeeze fresh lemon or lime juice over the finished dish; it brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing touch.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle powder for deeper smokiness; this extra layer of flavor enhances the BBQ experience.
- Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle some cheese on top during the final minutes of baking for a gooey, delicious finish; just watch it melt to perfection!
- Gluten-Free: Use a certified gluten-free BBQ seasoning and ensure all condiments are gluten-free for a safe and tasty meal.
Remember, the beauty of this one-pan meal is in its versatility—tailor it to suit your taste and enjoy!
Expert Tips for BBQ Chicken Thighs
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Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken thighs hit 165°F for perfect doneness and food safety.
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Uniform Sizing: Cut the potatoes into similar sizes for even roasting; larger pieces may take longer and leave some undercooked.
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Crispy Skin: For that irresistible crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching closely to prevent burning.
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Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the BBQ seasoning! Generous amounts will enhance the flavor of both the BBQ chicken thighs and the roasted potatoes.
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One-Pan Wonder: Embrace the one-pan method to save time on cleanup! Just toss everything in the same dish and enjoy a stress-free meal.
How to Store and Freeze BBQ Chicken Thighs with Roasted Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to retain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Remember to label with the date!
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes to restore crispiness. Microwave if short on time, but this may affect texture.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the BBQ chicken thighs with roasted potatoes out for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.
BBQ Chicken Thighs with Roasted Potatoes Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken thighs should I use for the BBQ chicken recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs for a juicy, flavorful result. If you’re looking to cut down on fat, skinless thighs can also work wonders while still providing tenderness. The choice really depends on your dietary preferences!
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Very important! To ensure safe consumption, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). For extra assurance, the juices should run clear, and the meat should be tender and easy to pull apart.
Can I store BBQ chicken thighs and potatoes in the refrigerator?
You bet! After the meal, store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just pop them back in the oven to reheat, which helps to maintain that lovely crisp texture.
How should I freeze the leftover BBQ chicken thighs and potatoes?
Certainly! First, allow the leftovers to cool completely. Then, place them in freezer-safe bags or containers, making sure to label them with the date. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for around 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.
What should I do if the potatoes aren’t cooking evenly?
Ah, here’s a common issue! Make sure to cut your potatoes into uniform sizes so they roast evenly. If you find that some pieces are still tough while others are super soft, you can remove the chicken once cooked and continue roasting the potatoes until they reach your desired tenderness—usually 10 to 15 more minutes in the oven should do the trick!
Are there any allergy considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! This recipe is quite adaptable. If you’re dealing with allergies, make sure to check your BBQ seasoning and Worcestershire sauce for hidden ingredients. You can easily avoid gluten by using a gluten-free BBQ seasoning and sauce. For any spice sensitivities, feel free to adjust or omit the crushed red pepper flakes. Always customize the meal to suit your family’s needs!
Savory BBQ Chicken Thighs with Irresistible Roasted Potatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Arrange chicken thighs in a 9x13 baking dish and add the cut red potatoes around the chicken.
- Drizzle olive oil over both the chicken and potatoes.
- Season with kosher salt, pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, BBQ seasoning, garlic paste, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Toss everything gently to coat well.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes.
- Serve hot, with BBQ sauce on the side if desired.