When I first tried bacon-wrapped chicken thighs in my air fryer, I was amazed at how quickly the kitchen filled with that irresistible aroma. There’s something so satisfying about the crispiness of the bacon mingling with the juicy, tender chicken underneath. Every bite feels indulgent without the need for complicated steps or hours of cooking. I love how this recipe combines simplicity with an impressive flavor profile that makes weeknight dinners feel special.
Over the years, I’ve experimented with different seasonings and cooking techniques, but the air fryer consistently delivers perfectly cooked chicken with minimal effort. The bacon crisps up beautifully while keeping the meat moist and flavorful, which is often a challenge with other cooking methods. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or impressing friends, this recipe is always a hit. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with salads, roasted veggies, or creamy mashed potatoes.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken Thighs: Fresh, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe. They’re naturally juicy, which balances perfectly with the crispiness of the bacon. Their tenderness ensures every bite is satisfying without needing long cooking times.
Bacon: Thick-cut bacon works best as it crisps up nicely in the air fryer and provides a smoky, savory flavor that enhances the chicken. The fat from the bacon also keeps the chicken moist while cooking.
Garlic Powder: This simple spice adds a subtle yet aromatic depth to the chicken, complementing the bacon without overpowering the natural flavors of the meat.
Paprika: Paprika brings a mild smokiness and vibrant color to the dish, making the chicken visually appealing while adding a hint of warmth to the flavor profile.
Salt and Pepper: Basic but essential, salt and pepper enhance all the other flavors in the dish. Proper seasoning ensures that the chicken and bacon are perfectly balanced in taste.
Optional: Brown Sugar or Maple Syrup: For a touch of sweetness, lightly sprinkling brown sugar or brushing with maple syrup before cooking adds a caramelized glaze to the bacon, creating a delightful sweet-savory contrast.
Ingredients List
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 8 slices of thick-cut bacon
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon brown sugar or maple syrup
How to Make Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Thighs
Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial for helping the seasoning stick and ensuring the bacon crisps up properly.
Season the Chicken
Sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper evenly over both sides of each chicken thigh. Rub the seasoning gently so it fully coats the meat for maximum flavor.
Wrap with Bacon
Take two slices of bacon per chicken thigh and wrap them around the meat. Tuck the ends underneath or secure with toothpicks if needed. Make sure the bacon is snug but not overly tight.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for 3–5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and helps the bacon start crisping immediately.
Cook the Chicken
Place the bacon-wrapped thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Optional Glaze
If using brown sugar or maple syrup, brush it over the bacon in the last 3–4 minutes of cooking for a sweet, caramelized finish.
Rest and Serve
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping each bite tender and flavorful. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Use thick-cut bacon for the perfect balance of crispiness and flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; leave space for air circulation to ensure even cooking.
- Pat chicken dry before seasoning for better adhesion and crispiness.
- Flip halfway through cooking to avoid burning the bacon on one side.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure food safety.
- Optional glaze: brushing maple syrup or sprinkling brown sugar near the end enhances the flavor without soggy bacon.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but chicken breasts may cook faster and can dry out more easily. Reduce cooking time and monitor internal temperature closely.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating is recommended to help the bacon crisp evenly and cook the chicken thoroughly.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can wrap the chicken in bacon and season in advance, but cook fresh for the best texture.
What sides go well with bacon-wrapped chicken thighs?
Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad are excellent companions.
Can I freeze bacon-wrapped chicken thighs?
Yes, wrap tightly in foil and freeze uncooked. Thaw completely before air frying for best results.