Save Succulent, oven-baked chicken thighs glazed in a sticky honey BBQ sauce, served with creamy garlic mashed potatoes for a comforting and flavorful meal.
I first made this combination for a weekend family dinner, and everyone raved about the sticky-sweet chicken paired with velvety mashed potatoes. It's now a go-to comfort meal in our house, especially when we want something both familiar and a little special.
Ingredients
- Chicken Thighs: 8 bone-in, skin-on thighs, patted dry
- Olive Oil: 1 tbsp for coating
- Smoked Paprika: 1 tsp for rich flavor
- Garlic Powder: 1 tsp for savory depth
- Onion Powder: 1 tsp to complement the chicken
- Salt: 1/2 tsp for seasoning
- Black Pepper: 1/2 tsp for a hint of spice
- BBQ Sauce: 1/2 cup (gluten-free if needed for dietary restrictions)
- Honey: 3 tbsp for sweetness
- Apple Cider Vinegar: 1 tbsp to balance flavors
- Dijon Mustard: 1 tsp for tang
- Yukon Gold Potatoes: 2 lbs (900g), peeled and cut into chunks
- Garlic Cloves: 4, peeled
- Whole Milk: 1/2 cup, warmed (dairy-free alternative can be substituted)
- Unsalted Butter: 1/4 cup or olive oil for dairy-free
- Salt (Potatoes): 1/2 tsp
- Black Pepper (Potatoes): 1/4 tsp
- Chopped Fresh Chives: 2 tbsp, optional for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare for Baking:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Season Chicken:
- Pat thighs dry. Mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub over chicken.
- Bake Chicken:
- Place thighs skin side up on prepared sheet. Bake 25 minutes.
- Make Honey BBQ Sauce:
- Whisk BBQ sauce, honey, vinegar, and mustard in bowl.
- Glaze and Finish Chicken:
- After 25 minutes, brush thighs with sauce. Bake another 15 minutes until cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C) and caramelized.
- Boil Potatoes and Garlic:
- Add potatoes and garlic to pot, cover with cold, salted water. Boil until fork-tender, 15-18 minutes.
- Mash Potatoes:
- Drain. Return to pot. Add warm milk, butter, salt, pepper. Mash until creamy. Stir in chives if desired.
- Serve:
- Plate honey BBQ chicken thighs along creamy garlic mashed potatoes.
Save These chicken thighs were a big hit at our last get-together, and the mashed potatoes disappeared just as quickly. I love making this with my kids, who enjoy mashing the potatoes and glazing the chicken.
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. Choose gluten-free and soy-free BBQ sauce if needed. Always check ingredient labels to make sure these are safe for guests.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 520 per serving, Total Fat: 25g, Carbohydrates: 44g, Protein: 31g
Save Pair these honey BBQ chicken thighs with fresh steamed green beans or coleslaw for a full meal. Enjoy the blend of sweet, savory, and creamy on every plate!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use boneless chicken instead of thighs?
Yes, boneless chicken works well. Adjust the baking time to avoid overcooking and ensure it's cooked through.
- → How do I make the mashed potatoes dairy-free?
Replace milk and butter with dairy-free alternatives such as olive oil and non-dairy milk for creamy results.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
It can be gluten-free if using gluten-free BBQ sauce and checking labels on all ingredients for hidden gluten.
- → What side dishes pair well with this meal?
Steamed green beans or coleslaw are excellent sides to complement the rich flavors of chicken and potatoes.
- → Can I grill the chicken instead of baking?
Yes, grilling after glazing adds a smoky finish and extra layer of flavor to the chicken thighs.
- → How do I know when the chicken is done?
Chicken is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.