Two Ingredient Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken is the easiest way to whip up a tasty dinner without fussing over complicated prep work. This flavorful dish pairs well with many sides and makes for an excellent meal any night of the week.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for those who want a savory, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With just two ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create crispy, juicy chicken that’s coated in rich, tangy BBQ sauce. It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights, impromptu gatherings, or any time you’re in the mood for something delicious. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with all sorts of sides, making it a staple in your cooking repertoire.

How to Make Two Ingredient Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken

Creating Two Ingredient Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken is a breeze. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering dish on the table in under an hour!

Ingredients:

8-10 chicken thighs and/or drumsticks (bone-in, skin on)
2 cups of your favorite BBQ sauce
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (or canola oil)

Directions:

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F. This temperature is key to getting that wonderful crispy skin.
Prepare the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl or directly on your baking sheet, coat the chicken on all sides with the olive oil. Don’t forget to season with a bit of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
Bake the Chicken: Arrange the chicken skin-side down on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake for about 25 minutes. This initial cooking phase will help get the skin crispy.
Increase Oven Temperature: Once the first 25 minutes are up, carefully remove the chicken from the oven. Turn the oven temperature up to 425 degrees F. Remember to close the oven door quickly to retain the heat!
Baste the Chicken: Using a basting brush, coat the top of the chicken with barbecue sauce. Use a spatula to flip the chicken pieces over gently; you don’t want to tear the skin. Baste the other side with BBQ sauce before placing them back in the oven for another 7 minutes.
Repeat Basting: Remove the chicken again and baste the top with more BBQ sauce. Place it back in the oven for an additional 7 minutes. This process should be repeated a total of three times, with each baking interval being 7 minutes after applying sauce, culminating in a total cooking time of around 46 minutes.
Check the Temperature: Ensure your chicken is fully cooked by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach at least 165 degrees F, though dark meat is best enjoyed at 180-190 degrees F.
Crisp it Up! If the chicken isn’t as crispy as you’d like, move the oven rack up and broil the chicken for an additional 3-5 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Rest and Serve: After cooking, let the chicken sit for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.

Pro Tips for Success Two Ingredient Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken

Use High-Quality Sauce: The barbecue sauce you choose really makes a difference! Opt for your favorite for the best result, whether you like it sweet, tangy, or smoky.
Don’t Skimp on Oil: Ensuring you coat the chicken adequately with oil helps achieve that crispy skin. It also contributes to the delicious browning effect.
Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfect results, investing in a good meat thermometer is essential. It takes the guesswork out of cooking and ensures your chicken is perfectly cooked every time.
Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on the size of your chicken pieces, cooking times may vary. Always monitor the chicken closely during the last few minutes to achieve your preferred level of doneness.
Broil at the End as Needed: If you like extra crispiness, broiling your chicken at the end is a great way to achieve that without overcooking the meat.
Add More Layers of Flavor: Consider marinating the chicken in the BBQ sauce for a few hours or overnight before the cooking process for a deeper flavor.

Flavor Variations Two Ingredient Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken

Spicy BBQ Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for an extra kick!
Honey BBQ Mix: For a sweeter twist, mix some honey into the BBQ sauce before basting. It adds a lovely caramelization!
Garlic Infusion: Mix minced garlic into the BBQ sauce for an extra layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with chicken.
Herb-Infused Oil: Use an herb-infused olive oil to coat the chicken, enhancing its flavor profile before you add the BBQ sauce.

Serving Suggestions Two Ingredient Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken

Classic Sides: Pair your chicken with classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or corn on the cob for a true BBQ experience.
Salads: Serve it over a fresh green salad for a lighter meal, topped with your favorite salad dressing.
Sandwiches: Shred the leftover chicken and make BBQ chicken sandwiches using hamburger buns, topped with pickles and onions.
Rice or Quinoa: For a wholesome meal, serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa, adding some steamed vegetables on the side.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Two Ingredient Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken

In the Refrigerator: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: If you plan to freeze the chicken, ensure it’s completely cooled, then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat baked chicken, place it in the oven at 350 degrees F until heated through. If you desire that crispy skin again, consider broiling it for a few minutes once warmed.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 300
Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 0g
Sodium: 600mg

FAQ About Two Ingredient Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken

How long does this chicken take to cook?

The total cooking time is approximately 46 minutes, not including any time for marinating or preheating the oven. Make sure to check the chicken’s internal temperature, which should reach at least 165 degrees F for safe consumption.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs or drumsticks?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they may require less cooking time, so be sure to check them earlier to prevent drying out.

Do I have to use skin-on chicken?

While skin-on chicken will generate the best crispy results, you can still make this recipe with skinless pieces. However, they may not achieve the same level of crispiness.

Can I use homemade BBQ sauce?

Absolutely! Using homemade BBQ sauce can take this dish to the next level and customize the seasoning exactly to your liking.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! The chicken stores well in the refrigerator or freezer, making it a great candidate for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

Two Ingredient Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken is a culinary delight that brings together simplicity and flavor, making it a go-to for anyone looking to prepare a quick and delicious meal. With just two ingredients, you can access a world of flavors and ensure that your family is well-fed with minimal effort. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your BBQ sauce and serve this dish with your favorite sides for a meal that will impress everyone at the dinner table!