Sweet & Smoky Bar-B-Q Chicken Thighs: Perfect for Any Occasion

January 24, 2025 at 8:44 am

There’s nothing quite like the taste of authentic East Texas Bar-B-Q, and with Lips Smacker’s Gourmet East Texas Bar-B-Q Sauce, you can bring that rich, hickory-smoked flavor to your table anytime. Whether celebrating a special event or craving some smoky goodness, this Sweet & Smoky Bar-B-Q Chicken Thighs recipe is the perfect go-to. Here’s why and when you should make it—and where you can find Lips Smacker’s Bar-B-Q Sauce and Seasoned Salts to elevate your cooking!

Sweet & Smoky Bar-B-Q Chicken Thighs

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Occasions to Enjoy This Recipe

Backyard Cookouts with Family and Friends
There’s no better time to fire up the oven (or grill) than when loved ones surround you. This recipe is easy to prepare and pairs beautifully with classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for summer BBQs or casual weekend gatherings.

Game Day Feasts
Bring the East Texas flavor to your game day spread! These Sweet and smoky bar-b-q chicken thighs are finger-licking, lips-smacking good. They pair perfectly with snacks like chips and dip or grilled vegetables, keeping your guests satisfied from kickoff to the final whistle.

Holiday Potlucks
Looking for something unique to take to a potluck? This dish travels well and delivers a rich, smoky flavor that will stand out from the typical casserole and pasta dishes. Plus, the Lips Smacker’s Bar-B-Q Sauceglaze gives it an irresistible shine!

Weeknight Dinners
Quick, flavorful, and satisfying—this recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight when you want to serve something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Pair it with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a balanced and hearty meal.

Celebrating East Texas Heritage
Whether you’re hosting a Texas-themed dinner party or want to honor the traditions of East Texas Bar-B-Q, this recipe captures the heart and soul of the region.

Why Lips Smacker’s is the Secret Ingredient

Growing up in Tyler, Texas—the heart of East Texas—our founder, Wilford Leonard, experienced bar-b-q in its truest form. From hickory-smoked meats to home-cooked feasts, the flavors of East Texas inspired the creation of Lips Smacker’s Gourmet East Texas Bar-B-Q Sauces, Seasoned Salts, and Marinades.

Each product is crafted with the authentic, smoky essence that embodies the region's pine trees, roses, and vibrant Bar-B-Q culture. Using these sauces and seasonings, you can recreate that rich, nostalgic taste right in your own kitchen or backyard.

Where to Find Lips Smacker’s Products

Great news for Bar-B-Q lovers: Lips Smacker’s Gourmet East Texas Bar-B-Q Sauces are now available at selected Walmart and H-E-B locations, and the Seasoned Salts are available at www.lips-smackers.com! Stock up today and experience the flavor that’s been putting the “YUM” in Q since day one.

Pro Tip: Make It Your Own
This Sweet and smoky bar-b-q chicken thighs recipe is incredibly versatile. Want a spicier kick? Use an additional ½ teaspoon of Lips Smacker’s Seasoned Salt. Would you prefer a sweeter glaze? Mix a little honey into the bar-b-q sauce before basting. The possibilities are endless when you start with Lips Smacker’s bar-b-q sauce and Seasoned Salt.

No matter the occasion, this recipe, Lips Smacker’s Gourmet East Texas Bar-B-Q Sauce and Seasoned Salt will make every meal memorable. From casual weeknights to festive celebrations, it’s the perfect way to share a taste of East Texas with your family and friends.

Don’t wait—head to your local Walmart or H-E-B and grab a bottle or go online today. Then, fire up your oven, grill, or smoker and let the Sweet and smokey bar-b-q Chicken Thighs transport you straight to the heart of East Texas.

Ready to Make It?

Check out the full recipe here, and let us know how it turned out!

Sweet & Smoky Bar-B-Q Chicken Thighs Recipe

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients:

8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 cup Lips Smacker’s Gourmet East Texas Bar-B-Q Sauce (Original)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 ½ tbsp Lips Smacker’s Seasoned Salt (for a kick, add ½ teaspoon more)
1 tsp granulated onion
1 tbsp honey (for additional sweetness, optional)
Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional garnish)

Lips Smacker’s Seasoned Salt, substitute:
1 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tsp granulated garlic
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for a kick)
1 tsp of salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

Prep the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
If substituting Lips Smacker’s Seasoned Salt, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
Rub olive oil over the chicken thighs, then sprinkle Lips Smacker’s Seasoned Salt or the spice mixture evenly on both sides.

Sear the Chicken

Heat a large oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 4-5 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip and sear the other side for 2-3 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix Lips Smacker’s Gourmet East Texas Bar-B-Q Sauce with honey (if using).

Coat the Chicken

Brush a generous layer of the Bar-B-Q sauce mixture onto each chicken thigh.

Bake to Perfection

Return the chicken to the skillet (or transfer it to a baking dish if needed). Arrange the thighs skin-side up.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, basting the chicken with more sauce halfway through.

Broil for Extra Char

For a caramelized finish, switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye to prevent burning!

Garnish and Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
Sprinkle with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of freshness.
Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread.

Why This Works:
The tangy and smoky flavor of Lips Smacker’s Bar-B-Q Sauce pairs beautifully with the juicy chicken thighs, while Lips Smacker’s Seasoned Salt enhances the depth of flavor. The honey adds a touch of sweetness that balances the barbecue sauce’s savory richness.

Stay connected! Follow us for more recipes, updates, and tips for making the most of Lips Smacker’s products. Share your Bar-B-Q creations with us on social media using the hashtags #Lips-Smacker’s and #EastTexasBarBQ!