Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs (Crispy Skin)

These air fryer BBQ chicken thighs feature bone-in, skin-on chicken seasoned with a smoky spice blend, air-fried until the skin becomes golden and crispy, then brushed with tangy BBQ sauce that caramelizes into a sticky glaze.

Ready in just 30 minutes, this dinner recipe requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor without heating up your kitchen or firing up the grill.loveandotherspices​

The combination of crispy skin, juicy meat, and sweet-tangy BBQ sauce makes this recipe for dinner a family favorite that works for any occasion, from busy weeknights to summer gatherings.

Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs (Crispy Skin)

These air fryer BBQ chicken thighs feature crispy golden skin and juicy meat brushed with tangy BBQ sauce. Ready in 30 minutes without a grill!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Servings: 4

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs (1½ pounds)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1½ teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon chili powder optional
• ¼ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ cup BBQ sauce
• Extra BBQ sauce for serving

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Small mixing bowl
• Basting brush
• Meat thermometer
• Paper towels
• Tongs
• Large bowl

Method

 

1. Pat chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels. Make 2-3 diagonal cuts in skin if desired.
2. Mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, chili powder, and baking powder in small bowl.
3. Place chicken in large bowl, drizzle with olive oil, toss to coat. Sprinkle spice mixture over all sides, rubbing in thoroughly.
4. Preheat air fryer to 380°F for 3-4 minutes.
5. Place chicken skin-side down in air fryer basket in single layer. Cook 10-12 minutes.
6. Flip chicken skin-side up using tongs. Pat skin dry with paper towel. Cook 8-10 minutes.
7. Brush chicken generously with BBQ sauce on all sides. Cook 3 minutes.
8. Brush with another layer of BBQ sauce. Cook 2-3 minutes until sauce is sticky and skin is crispy.
9. Check internal temperature (should reach 165-175°F).
10. Remove immediately and let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Baking powder is key to crispy skin.
Don’t skip drying chicken—moisture prevents crisping.
Don’t overcrowd air fryer basket.
Apply BBQ sauce near end to prevent burning.
Chicken thighs are juiciest at 175°F.
Remove from air fryer immediately after cooking.

Blog and Social Links Footer

More recipes in mealzyt.com, famillyrecipes.com, nutrientsrecipes.com.

Connect and share your creations: Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram