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Air fryer BBQ chicken thighs with crispy golden skin brushed with tangy BBQ sauce

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!
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Servings 4
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

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

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

Instructions
 

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