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Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs

Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs

Lisa
Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs bring together the perfect blend of crispy skin, juicy meat, and smoky BBQ flavor, all in a fraction of the time compared to traditional grilling. This quick and easy recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping, with minimal oil and maximum taste.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 people
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs (or bone-in for extra flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika optional
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for spice
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce store-bought or homemade

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken:

  • Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings stick better and ensures a crispy texture.

Season:

  • In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Rub the olive oil onto the chicken thighs, then coat with the seasoning mixture, ensuring even coverage.

Marinate:

  • Place the seasoned chicken thighs in a zip-lock bag or bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for the best flavor.
  • Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).

Cook:

  • Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Air fry for 12 minutes on one side. Flip the chicken thighs and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Glaze with BBQ Sauce: In the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, brush the chicken with BBQ sauce and allow it to caramelize.

Serve:

  • Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your crispy, flavorful BBQ chicken!

Notes

  • BBQ Sauce: For a healthier option, choose a low-sugar or homemade BBQ sauce. You can also experiment with different BBQ flavor profiles such as vinegar-based or smoky sauces.
  • Cooking Time Variations: If you're using larger chicken thighs or bone-in pieces, cooking time may increase. Always check the internal temperature to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
  • Meal Prep: These BBQ chicken thighs are great for meal prepping! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the air fryer to maintain crispiness.
  • Serving Suggestions: Pair with low-carb sides like cauliflower rice, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
This Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs recipe is the perfect combination of ease and flavor—ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend BBQ!
Keyword air fryer bbq chicken thighs, crispy chicken thighs, healthy bbq chicken, keto-friendly chicken, quick weeknight meals