BBQ Chicken in the Air Fryer
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If you haven’t tried making chicken in the air fryer yet, you’re in for a treat! This BBQ Chicken in the air fryer is perfect for those nights when you want a quick, delicious meal with minimal fuss. I love using my Typhur_Culinary air fryer for this—it cooks the chicken faster and more evenly than other models I’ve tried. Plus, it’s whisper quiet and has an extra-wide basket, which makes cooking a breeze. The self-cleaning mode, dehydrate function, and app availability are game-changers too. Plus, it has a 3 year warranty, so you can rest easy knowing your air fryer is protected if anything goes wrong!
With just a simple BBQ seasoning rub and a quick cook time, you’ll have juicy, crispy chicken in no time. Before lathering up the chicken with delicious BBQ sauce before it goes back into the air fryer, I check the internal temperature with Typhur’s InstaProbe thermometer because it has a .5 second reading and an LED light, making it easier to read! Then, I brush on some BBQ sauce for a caramelized finish. In about 20 minutes, you’ll have delicious BBQ chicken, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Save 10% off code: THESALTY + save $100!
Why You’ll Love BBQ Chicken in the Air Fryer
- Quick and Easy: This BBQ chicken recipe comes together in just 15 minutes of cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Crispy Perfection: The air fryer gives the chicken thighs a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy—no need to fry or bake!
- Flavor Packed: With a simple BBQ seasoning rub and an optional brush of BBQ sauce, you get rich, smoky flavor without any hassle.
- Minimal Cleanup: Cooking in the air fryer means less mess and fewer dishes to clean up—always a win in my book!
- Versatile Cooking: The Typhur air fryer’s extra wide basket makes it easy to cook a batch for the whole family, and it’s super quiet, too.
Ingredients Needed To Make BBQ Chicken in the Air Fryer
Make sure you scroll down to the recipe card to see the full list of ingredients needed for this recipe.
- Chicken thighs
- BBQ seasoning rub
- BBQ sauce (optional)
How To Make BBQ Chicken in the Air Fryer
- Preheat the air fryer to 425°F (220°C).
- Rub BBQ seasoning evenly over the chicken thighs.
- Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook the chicken for 15 minutes.
- Check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- (Optional) Brush the chicken with BBQ sauce and air fry for 1-2 more minutes if desired.
- Serve and enjoy!
Commonly Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs. Just be aware that breasts might cook faster, so check the internal temperature a bit earlier to avoid overcooking.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer will help you ensure it’s cooked perfectly.
Can I add BBQ sauce during cooking?
Yes, you can brush BBQ sauce on the chicken during the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. This will give it a nice caramelized finish and extra flavor.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months.
How do I reheat the chicken?
To reheat, place the chicken in the air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This helps maintain the crispy texture.
Can I use a different seasoning?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices or seasoning blends. Just make sure the seasoning complements the BBQ sauce if you plan to use it.
Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating the air fryer helps ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and gets that perfect crispy texture. It’s a good step to follow for the best results.
BBQ Chicken in the Air Fryer
Equipment
- Tongs or a spatula
- Meat thermometer (optional for checking temperature)
- Basting brush (if using BBQ sauce)
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp BBQ seasoning rub
- Optional: BBQ sauce for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 425°F (220°C).
- Season Chicken: Rub the BBQ seasoning evenly over the chicken thighs until well coated.
- Cook Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not overcrowded. Air fry at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes.
- Check Temperature: Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F (74°C).
- Optional BBQ Sauce: If desired, brush the chicken with BBQ sauce and air fry for an additional 1-2 minutes for a caramelized finish.
- Serve: Enjoy your crispy BBQ chicken thighs!
Nutrition
I’ve got to say, this BBQ chicken in the air fryer is a total win for a quick, flavorful dinner. It’s amazing how the air fryer makes the skin so crispy while keeping the meat juicy. Plus, the optional BBQ sauce step adds a sweet, smoky kick that takes it over the top. Give it a try, and you’ll see why this recipe is a staple in my kitchen!
