Pin 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 dish for a weekend family dinner when I wanted something hearty yet simple. The combination of cozy mashed potatoes and sticky glazed chicken thighs instantly made it a favorite at our table.
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 (use 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 (or dairy-free alternative)
- Unsalted Butter: 1/4 cup (or olive oil for dairy-free)
- Salt (for potatoes): 1/2 tsp
- Black Pepper (for potatoes): 1/4 tsp
- Fresh Chives: 2 tbsp chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Sheet:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Season Chicken:
- Pat the 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 the chicken thighs.
- Bake Chicken:
- Arrange chicken thighs, skin side up, on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes.
- Make Honey BBQ Sauce:
- Meanwhile, in a bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
- Glaze & Finish Chicken:
- After 25 minutes, brush chicken thighs generously with the honey BBQ sauce. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C) and the sauce is caramelized.
- Prepare Mashed Potatoes:
- While the chicken is baking, place potatoes and garlic cloves in a large pot. Cover with cold, salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-18 minutes.
- Finish Mashed Potatoes:
- Drain potatoes and garlic well. Return to the pot. Add warm milk, butter, salt, and black pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Stir in chopped chives if using.
- Serve:
- Serve the honey BBQ chicken thighs hot, alongside creamy garlic mashed potatoes.
Pin Sharing this meal always reminds me how gathering around the table with family and comfort food never goes out of style. The kids especially love dipping their chicken in extra sauce!
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 contain gluten or soy; use gluten-free or soy-free versions if needed. Always check labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 520 Protein: 31g Fat: 25g Carbohydrates: 44g
Pin Drizzle a little extra honey BBQ sauce over the chicken for added richness and enjoy with your favorite green veggies.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use boneless chicken instead of thighs?
Yes, boneless chicken can be substituted. Adjust cooking time to avoid overcooking, as boneless pieces cook faster.
- → How can I make the mashed potatoes dairy-free?
Replace milk and butter with plant-based alternatives, such as oat milk and olive oil, to achieve creamy texture without dairy.
- → What side dishes pair well with this meal?
Steamed green beans or crunchy coleslaw complement both the savory chicken and creamy potatoes, providing balance and freshness.
- → Is the honey BBQ sauce gluten-free?
If you use certified gluten-free BBQ sauce, the glaze will be suitable for gluten-sensitive diets. Always check product labels.
- → How do I make the chicken skin crispier?
Bake uncovered at a high temperature, or briefly grill after glazing for added smokiness and crispy skin texture.