Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs

Ready in under 20 minutes with juicy flavor and just the right amount of smoky sweetness these Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs are a weeknight staple that never lets me down Minimal cleanup and bold barbecue taste make this dish a lifesaver when the craving for something comforting strikes but time is short

This was my go to recipe last summer when grilling was not an option Rain or shine my kids ask for sticky BBQ chicken and I love knowing I can whip it up with no fuss

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs: The cut of choice for juicy tender meat Opt for fresh thighs with pink flesh and avoid any with a sulphur smell
• Smoked paprika: Provides depth and a gentle smokiness Try to find fresh paprika which is bright red and aromatic
• Chili powder: Adds mild heat and color Use a blend without extra sodium for best results
• Garlic powder: A pantry staple that infuses flavor evenly Go for granulated instead of fine powder if possible
• Onion powder: Enhances savory notes Always choose a lump free high quality powder
• Table salt: Seasons the meat and brightens the spice blend I use non iodized salt for pure taste
• Black pepper: Gives a little bite Grind fresh for the boldest flavor
• Cayenne pepper (optional): For those who like it spicy Just a touch really wakes up the sauce
• Non stick cooking spray: Essential for a crisp exterior and easy cleanup Look for oil sprays with no additives
• BBQ sauce: The sweet and tangy finish Choose your favorite barbecue sauce Make sure it is thick and clingy for best results

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Get your air fryer nice and hot at 375 degrees Fahrenheit so the chicken sears and turns golden as soon as it goes in

Trim and Prep Chicken:

Use kitchen shears or a sharp knife to carefully snip away any excess fat from each chicken thigh Pat them dry with paper towels for even seasoning

Mix and Apply Spices:

Blend all the dried spices in a small bowl until well combined Rub the mixture all over each chicken thigh coating both sides thoroughly so every bite gets seasoned

Prepare the Basket:

Spray the air fryer basket generously with nonstick spray Make sure all surfaces are covered so nothing sticks

First Cook:

Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer in the basket with a bit of space between each Set the timer for 7 minutes to allow the underside to start crisping up and browning

Flip and Continue Cooking:

Carefully flip each chicken thigh over using tongs Return to the air fryer for another 7 minutes letting both sides brown and the heat penetrate to keep the meat juicy

Sauce and Final Cook:

Open the air fryer and use a brush to coat half the BBQ sauce over the top of the chicken Flip each thigh and brush the remaining sauce on the other side Cook for 2 to 3 minutes more until the chicken is glossy and the internal temperature hits 165 degrees Fahrenheit

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I am partial to using smoked paprika here since that is what really gives each piece that nostalgic backyard cookout aroma The first time I nailed this recipe my son licked his fingers clean and declared it better than takeout

Storage Tips

Keep leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days For reheating place chicken back in the air fryer at 350 degrees for about five minutes to revive its crisp coating If you want to freeze let the pieces cool completely then wrap individually before sealing in a zip top bag Label and store for up to two months

Ingredient Substitutions

If you only have bone in thighs you can still use them just add an extra five minutes to the initial cook time To make this recipe gluten free be sure to pick a barbecue sauce without added thickeners like wheat flour For a sugar free option try a BBQ sauce sweetened with monk fruit or stevia

Serving Suggestions

Serve BBQ chicken thighs with classic sides like corn on the cob coleslaw potato salad or sliced pickles I sometimes shred the meat and stuff it into buns with extra sauce for quick sliders It also works beautifully paired with a green salad for a lighter meal

Cultural Influence

Barbecue sauce is a staple throughout the American South and Midwest and I love that these air fryer thighs capture some of that classic backyard BBQ flavor with an indoor twist There is something about the combination of smoky paprika and sticky sauce that delivers comfort food on any night

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Once you try these air fryer BBQ chicken thighs you may never go back to oven baked I have tested more sauces than I can count and still come back to this simple time saving recipe

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What is the best temperature for cooking chicken thighs in the air fryer?

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for juicy, evenly cooked chicken thighs with a crispy exterior.

→ How do I know when the chicken thighs are done?

Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F with a meat thermometer for safe, tender chicken.

→ Can I use bone-in chicken thighs for this method?

Bone-in thighs work well but may require extra minutes in the air fryer to cook through completely.

→ What kind of BBQ sauce works best?

Choose your favorite BBQ sauce, whether sweet, spicy, or smoky, to suit your taste preferences.

→ How do I keep the chicken from sticking in the air fryer?

Spray the basket with nonstick cooking spray before adding the chicken for easy removal.

→ Can I make these thighs spicy?

Add cayenne pepper to the seasoning blend for extra heat and bold flavor in your chicken thighs.