Save Succulent oven-baked chicken thighs glazed in a sticky honey BBQ sauce are paired with creamy garlic mashed potatoes to create a comforting meal packed with flavor. This classic combination is a true crowd-pleaser and is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together with friends.
This meal has become one of my go-to recipes when I want something hearty but easy to make. The sticky-sweet BBQ glaze is always a hit, and mashed potatoes make everything feel extra comforting.
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 Cloves: 4, peeled
- Whole Milk: 1/2 cup, warmed (or use dairy-free alternative)
- Unsalted Butter: 1/4 cup (or substitute with olive oil for dairy-free)
- Salt (for potatoes): 1/2 tsp
- Black Pepper (for potatoes): 1/4 tsp
- Chopped Fresh Chives: 2 tbsp, optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Season the Chicken:
- Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture over the chicken thighs.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Arrange chicken thighs, skin side up, on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes.
- Make the Honey BBQ Sauce:
- While chicken bakes, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard in a bowl.
- Glaze the Chicken:
- After 25 minutes, brush chicken thighs generously with the honey BBQ sauce. Return to the oven and bake for 15 more minutes, or until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C) and sauce is caramelized.
- Cook the Potatoes:
- 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 the Potatoes:
- Drain potatoes and garlic well, then return to pot. Add warmed milk, butter, salt, and black pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Stir in chives if using.
- Serve:
- Serve honey BBQ chicken thighs hot with a generous scoop of creamy garlic mashed potatoes.
Save We love making this meal on weekends, especially when everyone can pile their own plate high with chicken and mashed potatoes—the kids always ask for seconds!
Serving Suggestions
Add a bright side of steamed green beans or a tangy coleslaw for extra balance, or sprinkle extra chives over your mashed potatoes for a pop of color and flavor.
Allergen Information
This dish contains dairy (milk, butter) and mustard. If needed, use dairy-free milk and butter, and check your BBQ sauce for allergens like gluten or soy.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides about 520 calories, 25 g total fat, 44 g carbohydrates, and 31 g protein, making it both satisfying and nourishing.
Save Serve these honey BBQ chicken thighs and creamy garlic mashed potatoes for a dinner everyone will remember. Enjoy every sweet, savory, and comforting bite!
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of chicken is best for this dish?
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs work best to retain moisture and provide crispy skin when oven-baked.
- → Can I use a gluten-free BBQ sauce?
Yes, using a gluten-free BBQ sauce ensures the dish remains gluten-free and safe for sensitive diets.
- → How do I make the mashed potatoes creamy?
Mash the Yukon Gold potatoes with warm milk and butter, adding garlic and seasoning for a smooth, rich texture.
- → Is it possible to grill the chicken instead of baking?
Grilling after glazing adds a smoky char and enhances flavor, but consider adjusting cook time to ensure doneness.
- → What spices are used on the chicken before glazing?
A mixture of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper creates a flavorful base under the glaze.