Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by preparing the marinade for the chicken. In a bowl, whisk together the orange marmalade, spicy BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice. This combination of ingredients creates a flavorful glaze that’s both sweet and savory with just a hint of tang. Once the ingredients are well combined, you’ll have a thick, sticky sauce that will coat the chicken beautifully.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Once your sauce is ready, place the chicken thighs in a large zip-top freezer bag. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken and seal the bag tightly. Gently massage the marinade into the chicken, ensuring that each piece is thoroughly coated. The chicken will need to marinate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat, but if you have the time, letting it marinate for 4 to 8 hours will give you even more flavorful results. Alternatively, if you prefer to prepare this meal in advance, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Once the chicken has marinated and you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This moderate temperature ensures the chicken cooks evenly, allowing the sauce to thicken and caramelize without burning.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Transfer the chicken and marinade into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the chicken out evenly in the dish, ensuring that the pieces are not overcrowded. This allows for even cooking and ensures that every piece gets plenty of sauce. Bake the chicken for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). During the last 5 minutes of baking, you can baste the chicken with the sauce to ensure it stays juicy and flavorful.

Step 5: Broil for Extra Crispiness

For a crispy, caramelized finish, turn on the broiler for the last few minutes of cooking. Broiling the chicken will help the sauce form a delicious, sticky glaze on top, creating a beautiful contrast with the tender chicken. Keep a close eye on the chicken while broiling to avoid burning the sauce, and broil for about 2 to 4 minutes or until the edges are golden and crispy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the chicken is perfectly baked and broiled to your liking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This brief resting time allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken tender and juicy. Serve your BBQ Orange Baked Chicken with your favorite side dishes—think mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables—and enjoy the burst of sweet and smoky flavors with every bite.