How Long to BBQ Chicken Thighs Without Grill

Craving that smoky BBQ chicken flavor but don’t have a grill?

No worries — you can still enjoy juicy, flavorful chicken thighs using your oven or stovetop.

The key is getting the cook time right while locking in that BBQ taste.

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How Long to BBQ Chicken Thighs in the Oven

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs:

• Temperature: 400°F (204°C)

• Cook Time: 25–30 minutes

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs:

• Temperature: 400°F (204°C)

• Cook Time: 35–40 minutes

Steps for Oven BBQ Chicken Thighs:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F.

• Pat chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, and BBQ rub.

• Place thighs on a lined baking sheet or in a baking dish.

• Bake uncovered.

• At the 10-minute mark before they’re done, brush with BBQ sauce.

• Broil for the last 3–5 minutes to caramelize the sauce.

👉 Pro Tip: Use a meat thermometer. Chicken thighs are done when they reach 165°F (74°C) internally. If you do have access to a grill next time, here’s a full guide on how long to cook chicken on a BBQ for perfect results.

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How Long to BBQ Chicken Thighs on the Stovetop

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs:

• Total Cook Time: 15–20 minutes

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs:

• Total Cook Time: 25–30 minutes

Steps for Stovetop BBQ Chicken Thighs:

• Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

• Sear thighs skin-side down (or smooth side down) for 5–6 minutes.

• Flip and cover. Cook for another 10–15 minutes depending on thickness.

• Add BBQ sauce in the last 5 minutes and let it simmer.

Covering the skillet helps steam the chicken for even cooking.

Finish uncovered for that sticky, glazed texture.

Can You Get a Grilled Flavor Without a Grill?

Yes! Here’s how:

• Use smoked paprika or liquid smoke in your BBQ sauce.

• Broil chicken at the end to mimic char marks.

• Cast iron pans can help develop a flavorful crust, similar to grilled meat — just make sure your grates or cast iron cooking surface are clean and in good condition.

Here’s a guide on what kind of grill brush is best for cast iron grill grates so you’re ready when you do fire up the BBQ.

Final Tips

• Always rest your chicken for 5 minutes before serving.

• Want a smokier flavor? Finish with smoked BBQ sauce or a sprinkle of chipotle powder.

• Don’t overcook — juicy thighs are the goal!

If you’re cooking BBQ without a grill often, it helps to have tools that make prep, cooking, and cleanup easier.

Check out our full line of BBQ tools at Easy Function — click the image to explore our gear designed to make backyard (or indoor!) BBQ simple and fun.