Two Ingredient Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken
The Two Ingredient Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With just two main ingredients, this dish delivers mouthwatering flavors and a crispy texture that will impress your family and friends. Perfect for barbecue lovers and easy enough for novice cooks, this chicken recipe stands out for its sweet, sticky glaze and tender meat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Preparation: With only two ingredients, you can whip this dish up in no time.
- Flavorful Results: The combination of barbecue sauce and chicken creates a deliciously glazed finish that everyone will enjoy.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with sides like coleslaw or corn on the cob for a complete meal.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet barbecue flavor, making it a hit at the dinner table.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, this dish fits right in.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather the essential tools you’ll need to make this delicious chicken. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure success.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Basting brush
- Meat thermometer
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for cooking the chicken, allowing hot air to circulate around it for crispiness.
- Basting brush: Helps apply barbecue sauce evenly, ensuring maximum flavor on every bite.
- Meat thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked to perfection without any guesswork.
Ingredients
This recipe uses only TWO INGREDIENTS – barbecue sauce and chicken (plus a little olive oil, salt, and pepper) – to make the crispiest, most perfectly glazed, sweet, sticky, and tender barbecue baked chicken you will ever have.
For the Chicken
- 8-10 chicken thighs and/or drumsticks (bone-in, skin on)
For the Sauce
- 2 cups of your favorite bbq sauce
For Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (or canola oil)
How to Make Two Ingredient Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. This initial temperature helps get the skin crispy right from the start.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Coat each piece of chicken on all sides with olive oil. Sprinkle salt and pepper generously over the chicken for added flavor.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken
Place the chicken skin side down on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to start rendering some fat from the skin.
Step 4: Increase Oven Temperature
After 25 minutes, remove the chicken from the oven. Turn up the temperature to 425 degrees F. Close the oven door quickly after checking to retain heat.
Step 5: Apply Barbecue Sauce
Using a basting brush, coat one side of each piece of chicken with barbecue sauce. Carefully flip them over using a spatula without tearing any skin. Baste the other side before returning them to bake for another 7 minutes.
Step 6: Repeat Basting Process
Remove from heat again after 7 minutes. Baste the top once more with barbecue sauce before placing back in oven for an additional 7 minutes.
Step 7: Final Baste
After another 7 minutes have passed, take out the chicken again. Baste it one last time before returning it to bake for another final round of 7 minutes. The total cooking time should be about 46 minutes. Always check that it’s at least 165 degrees F internally using a meat thermometer.
Step 8: Broil if Necessary
If you desire extra crispiness, move your oven rack higher and broil on high for an additional 3-5 minutes until it’s perfectly golden brown.
Step 9: Let It Rest
Allow your delicious barbecue baked chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This step helps redistribute juices within the meat for optimal tenderness.
How to Serve Two Ingredient Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken
Serving your Two Ingredient Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken can elevate the dining experience, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Here are some great serving suggestions that pair well with this delicious dish.
On a Bed of Greens
- Fresh Salad: Serve the chicken sliced over a fresh mixed greens salad for a light and zesty meal.
- Spinach and Kale: Toss in sautéed spinach or kale with garlic for an added nutritional boost.
With Classic Sides
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
- Cornbread: Soft, sweet cornbread complements the flavors beautifully.
With Dipping Sauces
- Ranch Dressing: A cool ranch dressing provides a creamy contrast to the smoky BBQ flavor.
- Garlic Aioli: For a gourmet touch, serve with a homemade garlic aioli for dipping.
As Sandwiches
- BBQ Chicken Sandwich: Shred the chicken and serve on toasted buns with pickles and slaw.
- Wraps: Roll slices of chicken in tortillas with lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado for a quick meal on-the-go.

How to Perfect Two Ingredient Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken
To ensure your Two Ingredient Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.
- Preheat Your Oven: Always make sure your oven is fully preheated before adding the chicken to achieve optimal crispiness.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality barbecue sauce for better flavor and texture; homemade sauces work great too!
- Baste Frequently: Regularly basting helps create that sticky glaze and enhances flavor; aim for at least three times during cooking.
- Check Internal Temperature: Ensure the chicken reaches at least 165 degrees F; dark meat tastes best at 180-190 degrees F.
- Broil for Extra Crispiness: If the chicken isn’t as crispy as you like, broil it for the last few minutes for an extra crunchy skin.
- Let it Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes after cooking so juices redistribute, making each bite juicy and tender.
Best Side Dishes for Two Ingredient Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken
Pairing side dishes with your Two Ingredient Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some fantastic options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that complements the chicken perfectly.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies grilled to perfection add color and nutrition to your plate.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans provide a classic barbecue flavor pairing that everyone loves.
- Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumber salad drizzled with vinaigrette brings a cool contrast to the warm chicken.
- Macaroni and Cheese: This cheesy comfort food is always a hit, especially with kids!
- Roasted Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter is a simple yet delicious side that pairs perfectly with BBQ flavors.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned to perfection are great for dipping into any leftover barbecue sauce.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds sweetness and freshness that balances out richer dishes like BBQ chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding mistakes will help you achieve the best results with your Two Ingredient Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the oil: Not coating the chicken with olive oil can lead to less crispy skin. Always use oil to ensure a perfect texture.
- Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season the chicken with salt and pepper may result in bland flavors. Don’t skip this step for enhanced taste!
- Inadequate oven temperature: Opening the oven too often can lower the temperature. Keep the door closed as much as possible during cooking.
- Rushing the cooking time: Removing chicken too soon can leave it undercooked. Always check that it reaches 165 degrees F for safety.
- Neglecting to baste: Forgetting to baste the chicken during cooking can lead to uneven flavor and moisture. Make sure to baste at least three times.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover chicken in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Two Ingredient Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken
- Wrap chicken tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
- It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Two Ingredient Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat for about 5-10 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the recipe that can help clarify any doubts.
What is the best barbecue sauce for Two Ingredient Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken?
The best barbecue sauce is one that suits your taste—choose something sweet, tangy, or spicy depending on your preference!
Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes! You can use boneless chicken breasts or wings if you prefer. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I know when my chicken is done?
Check with a meat thermometer; it should read at least 165 degrees F at the thickest part of the meat.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This recipe holds up well in meal prep and makes delicious leftovers throughout the week.
Can I customize my Two Ingredient Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different spices or marinades alongside your barbecue sauce for added flavor.
Final Thoughts
Two Ingredient Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken is an incredibly simple yet satisfying dish that your family will love. The combination of crispy skin and sticky barbecue glaze makes it perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s easy to customize according to your taste! Give this recipe a try and enjoy a comforting meal that’s both quick and delicious.
Two Ingredient Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken
- Total Time: 56 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Transform your weeknight dinners with this simple yet mouthwatering Two Ingredient Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken. With just chicken and your favorite barbecue sauce, you can achieve a delightful balance of crunchy skin and sticky glaze that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for busy families or casual gatherings, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. The tender meat absorbs the sweet barbecue sauce, making it an instant hit at any table. Pair it with classic sides like coleslaw or cornbread for a complete meal that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 8–10 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and/or drumsticks
- 2 cups barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- Coat each piece of chicken with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Place chicken skin side down on a baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes.
- Increase the oven temperature to 425°F, flip the chicken, baste with barbecue sauce, and bake for an additional 21 minutes (basting every 7 minutes).
- If desired, broil for an extra 3-5 minutes for additional crispiness.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 46 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh (100g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 90mg







