If you’re looking for a simple yet incredibly flavorful chicken dinner, this Garlic Honey BBQ Chicken is about to become a regular on your meal plan. Made with tender chicken thighs and drumsticks, this recipe delivers the perfect balance of sweet honey, smoky BBQ sauce, and rich garlic flavor—all baked to juicy perfection in the oven. With minimal prep and everyday ingredients, it’s ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even casual entertaining.
This oven-baked BBQ chicken recipe is easy, reliable, and guaranteed to satisfy both kids and adults alike.
Garlic Honey BBQ Chicken Recipe
Prep Time
15 minutes
Marinating Time
2–3 hours (or overnight for best flavor)
Cook Time
45 minutes
Total Time
About 1 hour (plus marinating)
Servings
4–6 people
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1–1.2 kg chicken thighs and drumsticks, skin-on, bone-in
For the Marinade
- ½ tablespoon all-purpose seasoning
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion granules
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon tomato purée
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 120 ml water
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose seasoning, smoked paprika, black pepper, onion granules, BBQ sauce, minced garlic, honey, tomato purée, olive oil, and water. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well blended.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Arrange the chicken thighs and drumsticks in a large ovenproof dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Gently lift the skin and rub some of the marinade underneath for maximum flavor.
Cover and refrigerate for 2–3 hours, or preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature.
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Cover the dish with foil and bake on the middle shelf for 35 minutes. Remove the foil, baste the chicken with the sauce from the dish, and return to the oven uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the skin is glossy and slightly caramelized.
Check doneness using a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F).
Step 4: Serve
Serve hot with mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, or rice, and a side of steamed or roasted vegetables. Spoon extra sauce over the chicken before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Honey BBQ Chicken
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of garlic, honey, and smoky BBQ sauce creates a rich, balanced taste that’s sweet, savory, and irresistible.
- Juicy & Tender: Bone-in, skin-on chicken stays moist and flavorful throughout baking.
- Easy Oven Recipe: No grilling required—perfect for any season.
- Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleasing meal that both kids and adults enjoy.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Leftovers reheat beautifully and work well in wraps, sandwiches, or salads.
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