Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs Recipe

If you love tender, flavorful chicken with that perfect smoky tang, you are absolutely going to adore this Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs Recipe. Imagine juicy boneless chicken thighs, seasoned with a blend of spices and cooked to golden perfection in your air fryer, then finished off with a generous coating of your favorite barbecue sauce. It’s a quick, fuss-free way to enjoy a classic BBQ experience right at home, without firing up the grill or heating the oven all afternoon!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things simple but purposeful. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s building layers of smoky spice or locking in juicy tenderness. Having the right spices and a good BBQ sauce elevates the dish from everyday chicken to a mouthwatering feast.

• 1 1/2 lb chicken thighs boneless (skinless): The star of the dish, chosen for tenderness and quick cooking time in the air fryer.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika): Adds a smoky depth and vibrant color.
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder: Brings a mild warmth that complements the BBQ sauce.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances savory notes without overpowering.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Introduces subtle sweetness and complexity.
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper: Freshly ground works best for a sharp finish.
• 1/2 teaspoon table salt: Essential for seasoning and drawing out flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For those who love a little heat kick in their BBQ.
• Nonstick cooking spray: Prevents sticking and helps achieve that crisp exterior.
• 1/3 cup BBQ sauce: The finishing touch that glazes the chicken with sweet, tangy goodness.

How to Make Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Start by setting your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Preheating is key because it ensures the chicken starts cooking immediately, locking in moisture and helping the spices bloom with flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Thighs

Trim off any excess fat from the chicken thighs to prevent flare-ups or overly greasy bites. Then get your spice blend ready—the paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, salt, and optional cayenne all mix together to create that irresistible BBQ vibe.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Rub the mixed spices evenly over both sides of each chicken thigh. This step infuses the meat with layers of smoky, spicy, and savory goodness, promising each bite bursts with flavor.

Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken Thighs

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray to ensure an easy release and a crispy texture. Place the chicken in a single layer to cook evenly. Air fry for 7 minutes, then flip to cook for an additional 7 minutes. This timing perfectly cooks the thighs through while creating a nice crust.

Step 5: Glaze with BBQ Sauce

Brush half of the BBQ sauce over one side of the chicken thighs, flip them, and slather the remaining sauce on the other side. Pop them back in the air fryer for 2 to 3 more minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This last step caramelizes the BBQ glaze for that irresistible sticky finish.

How to Serve Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions adds a pop of color and fresh brightness that contrasts delightfully with the smoky chicken. For an extra touch, a few lemon wedges on the side brighten the flavors with a citrus zing.

Side Dishes

Classic BBQ sides like creamy coleslaw, corn on the cob, or buttery mashed potatoes perfectly complement the rich, saucy chicken. For a lighter option, crisp green salads or roasted vegetables balance the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs on a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a hearty meal, or slice them up to load onto soft buns with pickles and extra sauce for irresistible BBQ chicken sandwiches. For a fun twist, tuck the thighs into warm tortillas with avocado and slaw to create flavorful tacos.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a perfect ready-to-eat dinner or lunch for the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken thighs wrapped tightly in foil or freezer bags for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain tenderness and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 minutes to keep that signature crispness of the BBQ sauce and chicken skin. Alternatively, warming them in the oven wrapped with foil preserves moisture if you prefer softer bites.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs for this recipe?

Absolutely! Bone-in thighs will take a bit longer to cook, about 3 to 5 extra minutes, so always check for an internal temperature of 165 degrees. The bones add flavor and can keep the meat extra juicy.

What if I don’t have smoked paprika? Can I use regular paprika?

Yes, regular paprika works just fine and will still add lovely color and flavor. If you want that smoky touch, a small dash of liquid smoke can be added to your BBQ sauce to mimic the effect.

How spicy is this Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs Recipe?

The spice level is mild by default, mainly from paprika and chili powder. If you want more heat, the optional cayenne pepper adds a noticeable kick without overwhelming the BBQ flavors.

Is it necessary to spray the air fryer basket with nonstick spray?

Using nonstick spray helps prevent the chicken from sticking, which can happen with BBQ sauce or natural chicken juices. It also helps develop that crispy exterior, so it’s highly recommended.

Can I use a different BBQ sauce? How will it change the dish?

You can definitely customize with any BBQ sauce you like—whether it’s sweet, tangy, spicy, or smoky. Each sauce will bring its unique character, allowing you to tailor the recipe to your personal taste.

Final Thoughts

This Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs Recipe is truly a gem for busy weeknights or casual weekend cookouts. It combines simplicity with bold flavors, and the air fryer does all the hard work to deliver juicy, saucy chicken with minimal fuss. I can’t wait for you to give this a try and enjoy every delicious bite with your favorite sides and company!

Print