Tender, flavorful, and irresistibly saucy, Chicken Simmered in BBQ Sauce is the ultimate comfort food dish that’s easy to make yet brimming with bold flavors. This recipe features bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs seared to golden perfection before being gently simmered in a rich, tangy blend of BBQ sauce, chicken broth, smoked paprika, cider vinegar, and a touch of brown sugar. Infused with the savory depth of sautéed onions and garlic, this dish strikes the perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and tangy notes. Ideal for busy weeknights or a family dinner, it’s ready in just 40 minutes and pairs beautifully with fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or fresh vegetables. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color, and prepare to savor every last bite of this hearty, one-pan meal. Perfectly tender chicken coated in a flavorful barbecue glaze—what’s not to love?
Season the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper on both sides.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
Sear the chicken thighs for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the diced onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the bbq sauce, chicken broth, smoked paprika, cider vinegar, and brown sugar to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up, nestling them into the sauce.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let the chicken simmer for 25-30 minutes. Spoon sauce over the chicken occasionally for even flavor.
Once the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C), remove it from the heat.
Serve the chicken with a generous spoonful of sauce on top. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Pair with rice, mashed potatoes, or a side of vegetables for a complete meal.
Calories |
1942 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 108.1 g | 139% | |
| Saturated Fat | 28.7 g | 144% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 486 mg | 162% | |
| Sodium | 5063 mg | 220% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 140.1 g | 51% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.7 g | 17% | |
| Total Sugars | 116.4 g | ||
| Protein | 113.9 g | 228% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 208 mg | 16% | |
| Iron | 8.7 mg | 48% | |
| Potassium | 1847 mg | 39% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.