Cooking for my family always brings a sense of joy, especially when I discover recipes that are both quick and flavorful. Air fryer BBQ chicken has become one of my go-to dishes for busy weeknights. It’s a perfect combination of tender, juicy chicken and smoky, tangy barbecue sauce—all done in less time than traditional methods. Plus, the air fryer eliminates the need for excess oil, making it a healthier alternative.
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can pair it with a variety of sides, like a crisp coleslaw, buttery corn on the cob, or even baked sweet potatoes. It’s an easy recipe that delivers mouthwatering results, every single time. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to be a hit.
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Chicken Thighs or Drumsticks: Bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces work best for this recipe. The bone helps retain moisture while cooking, and the skin crisps up beautifully in the air fryer, delivering maximum flavor.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce, whether it’s sweet, smoky, spicy, or a combination of flavors. This is the key to that rich, saucy finish.
Olive Oil: A small amount of olive oil is used to lightly coat the chicken. This helps the seasoning adhere and contributes to the crispiness of the skin.
Garlic Powder: Adds a hint of earthy flavor that complements the barbecue sauce perfectly.
Paprika: A sprinkle of smoked paprika enhances the smoky flavor and gives the chicken a rich, vibrant color.
Salt and Pepper: These pantry staples are essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken and seasonings.
Ingredients List
- 4 chicken thighs or drumsticks (bone-in, skin-on)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup barbecue sauce
How to Make BBQ Chicken in Air Fryer
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs or drumsticks dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin. Rub the chicken with olive oil to ensure the seasoning sticks evenly.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Mix the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture over the chicken, ensuring all sides are evenly coated.
Step 3: Preheat and Cook in the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Place the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, skin side up. Cook for 18-20 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through.
Step 4: Add the BBQ Sauce
Brush a generous amount of barbecue sauce over the chicken during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This will caramelize the sauce, creating a sticky, flavorful glaze.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once done, let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Choose the Right Chicken Cuts: Bone-in, skin-on cuts work best, but you can also use boneless chicken breasts or thighs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Don’t Skip Preheating: Preheating the air fryer ensures even cooking and helps achieve crispy skin.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to allow hot air to circulate around each piece.
- Customize the Sauce: Experiment with different BBQ sauces to suit your taste—honey BBQ for sweetness or chipotle BBQ for a smoky kick.
- Rest Before Serving: Letting the chicken rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
FAQs
1. Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts or thighs. However, you’ll need to reduce the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover BBQ chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to retain crispiness.
3. Can I make this recipe without BBQ sauce?
Absolutely! You can season the chicken with your favorite spices and enjoy it as a dry-rubbed option.
4. What sides go well with BBQ chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with coleslaw, potato salad, cornbread, or roasted vegetables.
5. Can I freeze cooked BBQ chicken?
Yes, let the chicken cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.