Skillet Barbecue Chicken

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or breasts)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)

• 2 tbsp honey

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken
   Pat chicken dry and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.

2. Sear in the Skillet
   Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet (cast iron works best) over medium-high heat.
   Add chicken, skin-side down, and sear for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

3. Make the BBQ Glaze
   In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
   Stir in barbecue sauce, honey, vinegar, and smoked paprika. Simmer for 1–2 minutes.

4. Return Chicken to Skillet
   Coat chicken in the sauce, spooning it over each piece.

5. Finish Cooking

   • Option 1 (Oven Method): Transfer skillet to a 400°F (200°C) oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until chicken is cooked through (165°F / 74°C).

   • Option 2 (Stovetop Method): Cover skillet and cook on low heat for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until fully cooked and glazed.

6. Caramelize the Sauce (Optional but Delicious!)
   For extra flavor, uncover and broil for 2–3 minutes or cook uncovered for a few minutes more until sauce thickens and caramelizes.