Description
These Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs are crispy, juicy, and smothered in bold barbecue flavor — all done in under 30 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy air fryer recipe delivers big flavor with minimal mess.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 4–6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Rub with olive oil and season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Place thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket. Cook for 12 minutes.
- Flip and cook for another 8–10 minutes, until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Brush BBQ sauce generously on each thigh. Air fry 2–3 more minutes to caramelize the sauce.
- Rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use boneless, skinless thighs for a leaner version (reduce cook time slightly).
- Add a dash of cayenne or chili powder for a spicy kick.
- Great with air-fried veggies or coleslaw on the side.
Nutrition
- Calories: ~360 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
