If you’re a fan of delicious BBQ chicken thighs, then you’re going to love this easy air fryer recipe! These Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs are coated in a thick, tangy-sweet BBQ sauce, caramelized to perfection in just 15 minutes. The air fryer locks in all the juiciness of the chicken while delivering that irresistible BBQ flavor we all crave.
I’ve been obsessed with these juicy, smoky chicken thighs lately. Every bite is packed with that sweet, savory flavor, and the best part? You don’t need to wait for grilling season! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend treat, these BBQ chicken thighs are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients for the Best Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs
Boneless Chicken Thighs:
I prefer using boneless chicken thighs for this recipe. They stay tender and juicy after air frying, with skin-on or skinless options working equally well.
BBQ Sauce:
Go for a thick BBQ sauce like Sweet Baby Ray’s or whip up a homemade version. I love adding a touch of garlic, onion powder, and paprika for an extra burst of flavor.
Seasonings:
A simple mix of salt and pepper is all you need to season the chicken. The BBQ sauce will do the rest!
How to Make Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs
- Prep the Chicken Thighs:
Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Rub them with a bit of olive oil and season with salt and pepper for a nice, flavorful base.
- Prepare the BBQ Sauce:
Mix your favorite BBQ sauce with minced garlic, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. This quick blend adds a delicious smoky layer to the chicken. - Coat the Chicken:
Brush the BBQ sauce mixture evenly on both sides of each chicken thigh. Make sure every part is well-coated to maximize flavor. - Air Fry the Thighs:
Preheat the air fryer and arrange the thighs in a single layer in the basket. Cook them for 7 minutes, then flip and cook for another 6 minutes. For safety, check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy! The caramelized edges, tender meat, and smoky BBQ sauce create an irresistible meal.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs
- Alternative Cuts:
If you prefer white meat, you can easily make this recipe with chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. - Homemade BBQ Sauce:
Enhance your BBQ sauce with simple pantry ingredients like garlic, paprika, and onion powder. It’s a quick way to add a smoky kick. - Caramelization:
The air fryer works wonders by caramelizing the sauce on the outside while keeping the chicken tender and juicy inside.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs give you that grilled barbecue flavor without needing an outdoor grill. The air fryer cooks the chicken evenly, giving you crispy, caramelized skin and juicy meat every time. Plus, the recipe is quick, ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy days or impromptu dinners.
No matter the weather, you can enjoy BBQ chicken all year long with this easy air fryer recipe. It’s fast, flavorful, and sure to become a family favorite.
