Juicy, flavorful BBQ chicken with none of the hassle—thanks to the air fryer!
If you’ve always thought barbecue chicken is best left to the grill, think again. While grilling definitely has its place, the air fryer offers a fantastic alternative—one that doesn’t skimp on flavor. When it comes to chicken thighs, using an air fryer with the right ingredients can yield results just as delicious as anything you’d get from the grill.
This recipe has just a few simple ingredients: bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and sea salt. The smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor that gives you that classic BBQ taste without the need for a grill. Then, you’ll slather your chicken with a low-sugar barbecue sauce for that perfect sweet and tangy finish.
Not only is cooking with an air fryer a healthy option, but it also has the benefit of being incredibly quick and easy. The best part? You can still load up your chicken with all your favorite spices and sauces, and the result will be juicy, tender, and packed with flavor. No more worrying about overcooked chicken or uneven grilling! With the air fryer, you can trust that your BBQ chicken thighs will come out perfectly every time. Honestly, you can’t go wrong with BBQ chicken thighs in the air fryer!
Are Air-Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs Healthy?
Air-fryer BBQ chicken thighs are a healthier alternative to some traditional cooking methods, such as pan-frying, where excess grease and oil can add extra fat. The air fryer helps remove much of that unwanted fat, resulting in chicken thighs that are lower in saturated and trans fats while still providing a generous amount of protein. Plus, by using a low-sugar barbecue sauce, you’re cutting down on added sugars, which makes these air-fryer BBQ chicken thighs a great option for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful, healthier meal without sacrificing taste.
Sauce And Spices
The secret to amazing barbecue chicken lies in the perfect combination of spices and sauce. This recipe keeps things simple, but the beauty of barbecue is that you can make it your own. No one’s looking over your shoulder, so feel free to slather on any barbecue sauce you love, and use as much as you want! While BBQ sauce is a classic, you can switch it up with other delicious options like tangy Buffalo sauce for a spicy kick, or honey mustard sauce for a sweet and savory twist. Feel free to experiment and find your perfect flavor!
For spices, the possibilities are endless. Want to add some heat? Chili flakes, cayenne, or a dash of hot pepper sauce or sriracha will bring the spice. Try a blend of cumin, coriander, and a touch of brown sugar for a sweet and smoky flavor. Get creative and experiment with your favorite spices to make these air-fryer chicken thighs your own!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftover chicken thighs can be wrapped in foil or stored in a resealable bag or airtight container. They will stay good in the fridge for 3 or 4 days or for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Serving Suggestions
There are so many fun sauces you can use with this recipe instead of traditional barbecue sauce. Try Mumbo Sauce, Huli Huli Sauce, or Mustard Barbecue Sauce for a unique twist that adds new layers of flavor to your chicken.
If you’re enjoying this chicken at an outdoor barbecue, serve it with pasta salad, a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for warm weather. The Best Pasta Salad, Broccoli Pasta Salad, and Mediterranean Chickpea Pasta Salad are all great choices.
Ingredients
- 6 chicken thighs bone-in, skin-on
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 cup of your favorite low-sugar barbecue sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
- Begin by preparing the chicken thighs. Trim any excess skin or fat for a healthier meal. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure the skin crisps up nicely in the air fryer.
- Score the skin side of the chicken thighs lightly, making shallow cuts. This helps the seasoning penetrate and gives more flavor to your chicken.
- In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and sea salt.
- Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated. This is what creates a delicious crust.
- Arrange the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, skin-side down, and cook for 10 minutes.
- After 10 minutes, brush the chicken generously with barbecue sauce.
- Cook for another 5 minutes to allow the barbecue sauce to caramelize.
- Flip the chicken thighs to skin-side up and apply another layer of barbecue sauce. Cook for a final 3 to 5 minutes.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm with extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping if desired. DEVOUR!
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
Leave a Comment