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.
When I first made this combo, everyone at the table couldn&t get enough. The glaze caramelizes perfectly, and the mashed potatoes are so creamy they feel like a restaurant treat.
Ingredients
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: 8 pieces
- 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 (use gluten-free if needed): 1/2 cup
- Honey: 3 tbsp
- Apple cider vinegar: 1 tbsp
- Dijon mustard: 1 tsp
- Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks: 2 lbs (900g)
- Garlic cloves, peeled: 4
- Whole milk, warmed (or dairy-free alternative): 1/2 cup
- Unsalted butter (or olive oil for dairy-free): 1/4 cup
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Chopped fresh chives (optional): 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Season Chicken:
- Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. In a bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture over the chicken thighs.
- Bake Chicken:
- Arrange chicken thighs, skin side up, on prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes.
- Make Honey BBQ Sauce:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
- Glaze and Finish Chicken:
- After 25 minutes of baking, brush chicken thighs generously with honey BBQ sauce. Return to oven for 15 minutes or 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 potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-18 minutes.
- Mash Potatoes:
- Drain potatoes and garlic. Return to pot. Add warm milk, butter, salt, and black pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Stir in chives if using.
- Serve:
- Serve honey BBQ chicken thighs hot alongside creamy garlic mashed potatoes.
Save Sharing this meal with family always feels like a celebration & everyone gets second helpings of both chicken and potatoes.
Required Tools
Baking sheet, mixing bowls, large pot, potato masher or ricer, brush for glazing, knife and cutting board.
Allergen Information
This dish contains dairy (milk, butter) and mustard. BBQ sauce may contain gluten or soy, so always check labels to suit dietary needs.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 520, Total Fat: 25 g, Carbohydrates: 44 g, Protein: 31 g
Save Enjoy every bite of this hearty dinner. The leftovers taste just as wonderful the next day.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What is the best way to ensure chicken thighs are tender?
Patting the thighs dry and seasoning well before baking helps. Baking at 400°F ensures they cook evenly while retaining moisture. Brushing with honey BBQ sauce adds caramelization without drying.
- → Can I use boneless chicken instead?
Yes, boneless chicken can be used. Adjust baking time to prevent overcooking; it generally requires less time than bone-in thighs.
- → How do I make the mashed potatoes creamy?
Use peeled Yukon Gold potatoes boiled until fork-tender, then mash with warm milk and butter. Adding garlic during boiling infuses flavor and enhances creaminess.
- → Is there a way to add a smoky flavor to the chicken?
Adding smoked paprika to the seasoning mix and optionally grilling the chicken after baking can boost smoky notes effectively.
- → Can I substitute the BBQ sauce for a gluten-free option?
Absolutely. Use a certified gluten-free BBQ sauce to maintain flavor without gluten concerns. Check ingredients carefully to ensure suitability.