Description
Enjoy tender and flavorful BBQ chicken thighs made effortlessly in the air fryer. This recipe combines a savory spice blend with your favorite BBQ sauce, resulting in a deliciously caramelized dish that’s perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Choose Your Chicken: Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for juiciness and flavor. Chicken breasts can be used but may dry out.
- Pat Dry: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Rub olive oil over the chicken thighs, then sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly, getting under the skin for maximum flavor.
- Marinate (Optional but Recommended): For best results, marinate the seasoned chicken in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
- Prepare the Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side up, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Air Fry the Chicken: Cook the chicken thighs for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C). For extra crispy skin, increase the temperature to 400°F (204°C) for the last 5 minutes.
- Brush with BBQ Sauce: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and brush a generous amount of BBQ sauce over each piece.
- Return to Air Fryer: Place the sauced chicken back in the air fryer and cook for an additional 5 minutes at 380°F (193°C) to caramelize the sauce.
- Final Check: Ensure the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbly and caramelized.
- Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken.
- Serve: Serve with your favorite sides like coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a simple green salad, and extra BBQ sauce for dipping.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your taste.
- If you prefer a different cut of chicken, adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes