Cooking juicy and flavorful BBQ chicken in an air fryer is quick, easy, and delicious! An air fryer allows you to make crisp, succulent chicken with your favorite bbq flavors in a fraction of the time. Follow these simple steps for finger-licking good bbq chicken every time.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar
- 2 Tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 Tbsp garlic powder
- 1 Tbsp onion powder
- 1 Tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup bbq sauce
Directions
Step 1: Mix the Dry Rub
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Use your fingers to gently loosen the skin from the meat without totally detaching it. Rub the spice mix evenly under and on top of the skin. Make sure the meat is fully coated.
Step 3: Air Fry
Place the seasoned chicken in the air fryer basket skin-side up. Do not overcrowd. Air fry at 380°F for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 4: Glaze with BBQ Sauce
In the last 3-5 minutes of cook time, brush your favorite bbq sauce generously over the chicken. Air fry until the sauce becomes sticky and caramelized.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Allow the bbq chicken to rest 5 minutes before serving. Dig in and enjoy the juicy, tender chicken saturated with smoky, sweet bbq flavor!
Tips for the Best BBQ Chicken
- For crispy skin, dry the chicken well before seasoning. Air frying renders out fat and moisture.
- Sliding your fingers under the skin allows more rub to directly coat the meat.
- Letting the chicken rest allows juices to redistribute for a moist, tender bite.
- Toss chicken pieces in sauce right before serving to keep crispy edges.
- Adjust cook times as needed for larger or smaller pieces. White meat takes less time.
- Add your favorite bbq sauce flavors. Sweet, tangy, spicy – it’s all good!
FAQs About Making BBQ Chicken in an Air Fryer
Should I brine the chicken first?
Brining is not necessary when air frying, unlike oven roasting which can dry out chicken. The circulating hot air crisps the skin while keeping the meat very juicy.
What bbq sauce works best?
Thicker, sticky sauces like Sweet Baby Ray’s or KC Masterpiece work great to coat the chicken. Thin vinegar sauces may just run off. Choose your favorite regional style!
Can I use bone-in chicken breasts instead of thighs?
You sure can! Bone-in breasts will cook faster, so reduce the air fry time to 14-18 minutes. Check for doneness before glazing.
How do I get the skin extra crispy?
Letting the chicken air fry skin-side down first helps render fat. Then flip to finish skin-side up with sauce. Pat skin very dry before seasoning too.
Should I flip the chicken halfway through?
Yes, flipping halfway ensures even cooking. It also allows you to air fry skin-side down first for maximum crispness before glazing.
Can I make a big batch in my air fryer?
It’s best to avoid overcrowding. Do just 2-4 pieces at a time for crispy results. Work in batches for larger groups.
The Perfect Quick Dinner
BBQ chicken cooked in the air fryer is the perfect easy dinner any night of the week. Way faster and healthier than takeout, you can whip up succulent barbecue chicken at home with little active time. Minimize cleanup with foil-lined air fryer baskets too. Pair your bbq chicken with coleslaw, baked beans, mac and cheese, or cornbread for a hearty Southern-inspired meal. Or keep it light with a fresh garden salad. Dinner is on the table in less time than it takes to have a pizza delivered!
So forget firing up the grill or oven roasting. Let your air fryer make quick work of cooking up juicy, saucy barbecue chicken for your next craving. Crisp skin, tender meat, and awesome flavors in just 20 minutes – air fried bbq chicken is truly finger-lickin’ good.