Can I use boneless chicken for this Air Fryer BBQ Chicken recipe?

Yes! Boneless chicken works great, but it cooks faster—adjust the time to 15–18 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces.

What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?

Use whatever BBQ sauce you love! Sweet, smoky, or tangy—all options work beautifully in this recipe.

What's the best way to stop chicken from sticking to the air fryer basket?

Lightly you grease the basket with cooking spray or rub the chicken with olive oil before cooking to prevent sticking.

Can I marinate the chicken beforehand?

Absolutely! Marinating the chicken in BBQ sauce or a dry rub for a few hours enhances the flavor even more.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check if internal temperature of your chicken reaches 165°F for perfectly cooked meat.

30-Minute Easy Air Fryer BBQ Chicken

Description

Juicy and flavorful air fryer BBQ chicken with a smoky, tangy glaze. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick, flavorful dinner in under 30 minute

Ingredients

Chicken: 2 lbs (thighs, drumsticks, or bone-in breasts; boneless works for quicker cooking)
BBQ Sauce: 1/2 cup (use your favorite store-bought or homemade)
Olive Oil: 1 tbsp
Garlic Powder: 1 tsp
Paprika: 1 tsp
Salt and Pepper: To taste
Optional Add-Ins: A pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness

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Instructions

To begin, prep your chicken by patting each piece dry with paper towels. This step is important because it removes excess moisture, ensuring the seasoning sticks well and the chicken cooks evenly. Rub the chicken with olive oil to help the spices adhere, then season generously with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of honey for an extra layer of flavor.
Next, preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Preheating ensures that the chicken starts cooking immediately when placed inside, resulting in a beautifully caramelized exterior. Let the air fryer run empty for 3–5 minutes to reach the desired temperature. This step guarantees even cooking and that crispy texture we’re aiming for.
Once the air fryer is preheated, arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer in the basket. Be sure to leave some space between each piece to allow the hot air to circulate freely. Cook the chicken for 20–25 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through. If you’re using bone-in chicken, aim for closer to 25 minutes, as it takes a bit longer to cook through. To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer.
As the chicken nears the end of its cooking time, it’s time to add the BBQ sauce. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, generously brush the tops of each piece with your favorite BBQ sauce. This timing is key to achieving a caramelized glaze without burning the sauce. Allow the sauce to bubble and slightly thicken as it cooks, creating a smoky, sticky layer that clings perfectly to the chicken.
Finally, carefully remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This brief resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful. Serve your BBQ chicken hot, with extra sauce on the side for dipping and your favorite sides like coleslaw, corn on the cob, or roasted veggies.

Notes

Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked through, check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Layering: Avoid overlapping chicken in the air fryer basket for even cooking and crispy skin.
Sauce Timing: Adding BBQ sauce too early can burn it. Brush it on during the last 5 minutes for the perfect glaze.

Nutrition

Calories: 280 kcal
Sugar: 8 g
Sodium: 480 mg
Fat: 15 g
Carbohydrates: 10 g
Protein: 26 g