There’s nothing quite like biting into a perfectly cooked, juicy BBQ chicken breast—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with smoky-sweet flavor. As someone who loves cooking but also values efficiency, I’ve found that the air fryer is a game-changer for making restaurant-quality chicken at home in minutes. No more dry, overcooked chicken—just succulent, flavorful meat every time.
What makes this recipe so special is the simplicity. With just a few pantry staples and a trusty air fryer, you can whip up a meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving a quick family dinner, this BBQ chicken breast is a winner. Let’s dive into what you’ll need and how to make it!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken breasts: The star of the dish! Look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are evenly sized for consistent cooking. If they’re too thick, you can butterfly them for quicker, more even results.
BBQ seasoning or rub: A good BBQ rub adds depth with smoky, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors. You can use store-bought or make your own with paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, and a touch of cayenne.
BBQ sauce: Choose your favorite brand—whether it’s tangy, sweet, or spicy, the sauce will caramelize beautifully in the air fryer. For a homemade option, mix ketchup, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Worcestershire sauce.
Olive oil or cooking spray: A light coating helps the seasoning stick and ensures the chicken doesn’t dry out. It also helps achieve that perfect golden exterior.
Ingredients List
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp BBQ seasoning or rub
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for serving)
- 1 tsp olive oil or cooking spray
- Salt (to taste)
How to Make Juicy Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Breast
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel—this helps the seasoning stick better. If they’re uneven in thickness, lightly pound them to an even size for even cooking.
Step 2: Season Generously
Drizzle the chicken with olive oil, then rub the BBQ seasoning all over, making sure every part is coated. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 3: Air Fry the Chicken
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken in the basket in a single layer, leaving space between them. Cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 4: Add the BBQ Sauce
Brush a generous layer of BBQ sauce on both sides of the chicken. Return to the air fryer and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy. Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side!
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer—cook in batches if needed for even crispiness.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking—165°F is the safe internal temperature.
- Marinate for extra flavor—if time allows, let the seasoned chicken sit for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Adjust cook time for thickness—thicker cuts may need an extra 2-3 minutes.
- Try homemade BBQ sauce—it’s easy to customize sweetness or spice to your liking.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes! Thighs are more forgiving and stay juicy. Adjust cooking time (about 12-15 minutes total).
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating helps with even cooking, but if you’re short on time, just add 1-2 extra minutes.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes.
Can I make this without BBQ sauce?
Absolutely—try buffalo sauce, teriyaki, or just extra seasoning for a different twist.
Enjoy your delicious, juicy air fryer BBQ chicken breast—it’s sure to become a weeknight favorite!