Can I Use Frozen Chicken?

Yes, but factor in extra cooking time, typically 5–7 minutes more. For best results, thaw the chicken for your BBQ chicken recipe air fryer so it absorbs seasonings fully.

Do I Need to Flip the Chicken?

Absolutely. Flipping halfway ensures a uniform cook, preventing one side from over-browning in your BBQ chicken recipe air fryer.

What’s the Ideal Temperature?

Cooking at 380°F (193°C) to 400°F (200°C) works well. For even crispier results, you can increase to 400°F in the last 2 minutes of your BBQ chicken recipe air fryer.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Place leftover chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Reheating in your BBQ chicken recipe air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes helps retain crispness.

Can I Cook Veggies at the Same Time?

Yes, if there’s enough space. Just be mindful that veggies might have different cooking times, so add or remove them accordingly in your BBQ chicken recipe air fryer.

Why Is Marinating Optional?

While helpful for locking in flavor, marinating isn’t mandatory for a mouthwatering outcome. A good spice rub and well-timed sauce application in your BBQ chicken can also do the trick.

BBQ chicken recipe air fryer: Juicy, Crispy & Easy to Make

Name: BBQ Chicken Air Fryer Recipe : A Delicious and Healthy Meal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ lbs (about 680 g) chicken thighs or breasts (bone-in or boneless); 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil); 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ cup of your favorite BBQ sauce (plus more for brushing); ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (for heat); 1 tablespoon honey (for extra sweetness)

Ingredients

Scale

1½ lbs (about 680 g) chicken thighs or breasts (bone-in or boneless)
1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup of your favorite BBQ sauce (plus more for brushing)

(Optional)

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (for heat)
1 tablespoon honey (for extra sweetness)

Instructions

Pat the Chicken Dry
Use paper towels to remove excess moisture; this helps the chicken turn crispy on the outside.
Season
In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Optionally add cayenne or honey for your preferred flavor twist. Rub this mixture evenly over the chicken.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for about 3–5 minutes.
Cook
• Place the chicken in a single layer inside the air fryer basket to ensure proper air circulation.
• Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 15–18 minutes if boneless, or 20–25 minutes if bone-in, depending on thickness.
• Flip the chicken halfway through for even browning.
Brush with BBQ Sauce
During the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the top side of the chicken generously with BBQ sauce. Flip and repeat on the other side. This layering technique prevents excessive charring.
Check for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If needed, cook for an additional 2–3 minutes.
Rest and Serve
Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Pair with coleslaw, roasted veggies, or your favorite side dishes.

Notes

• Adjust seasoning to taste—add more salt, pepper, or spices as you like.
• For extra tanginess, mix a bit of vinegar or lemon juice into your BBQ sauce before brushing.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to maintain crispness.
• This recipe works well with drumsticks, wings, or even chicken tenders—simply adjust cooking times.

Author: Ella Thompson
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: dinner
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 piece
Calories: ~220
Sugar: ~8 g
Sodium: ~600 mg
Fat: ~9 g
Saturated Fat: ~2 g
Unsaturated Fat: ~6 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: ~10 g
Fiber: ~0 g
Protein: ~25 g
Cholesterol: ~75 mg

Keywords: bbq chicken air fryer, healthy bbq chicken, air fryer chicken