Guava BBQ Sauce Chicken (Printable version)

Juicy chicken thighs roasted with sweet, tangy guava BBQ glaze for tropical barbecue flavor.

# What you need:

→ Guava BBQ Sauce

01 - 1 cup guava paste, chopped
02 - 1/2 cup ketchup
03 - 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
04 - 2 tablespoons brown sugar
05 - 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
06 - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
07 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
08 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
09 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
10 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
11 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
12 - 1/4 cup water

→ Chicken

13 - 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, approximately 2 pounds
14 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
15 - 1 teaspoon salt
16 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
17 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
02 - In a saucepan over medium heat, combine guava paste, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and water. Stir continuously until guava paste fully melts and sauce becomes smooth. Simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce reaches desired thickness. Remove from heat.
03 - Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Rub all sides of chicken with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, ensuring even coverage.
04 - Arrange seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up on prepared baking sheet. Roast in preheated oven for 25 minutes until skin begins to brown.
05 - Brush chicken generously with guava BBQ sauce. Return to oven and roast for 20 to 25 minutes, brushing again halfway through cooking, until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit and glaze becomes caramelized.
06 - Remove chicken from oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes. Serve with additional sauce on the side.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Tropical Flavor: The guava paste provides a unique sweetness that pairs perfectly with tangy BBQ spices.
  • Sticky Caramelization: Roasting the glazed chicken creates a beautiful, glossy, and slightly charred finish.
  • Easy to Customize: Whether you want more heat or a different side, this recipe is highly adaptable.
02 -
  • Extra Char: For an extra-crispy and charred finish, broil the chicken for 2–3 minutes after the final glazing, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.
  • Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches exactly 165°F (74°C) for the perfect balance of safety and juiciness.
  • Ingredient Safety: If you are cooking for someone with allergies, ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free and check labels for potential fish content.
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