Barbecue chicken is a crowd-pleasing dish that many people enjoy. The combination of tender, juicy meat and smoky, tangy flavors is simply irresistible. Traditionally, barbecue chicken is cooked on a grill or in the oven, but did you know that you can also cook it in an air fryer? Yes, that’s right! With the help of an air fryer, you can achieve the same delicious results in less time and with less effort. In this article, we will guide you through the process of cooking BBQ chicken thighs in an air fryer using a deliciously easy recipe. So, let’s get started!
Gathering Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, it’s important to gather all the necessary ingredients. For this recipe, you will need:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– ½ cup of barbecue sauce
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon of onion powder
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– ½ teaspoon of black pepper
You can find these ingredients in most grocery stores. Make sure to get fresh chicken thighs for the best results. Now that you have everything ready, it’s time to move on to the next step.
Preparing the Chicken Thighs
Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This will help the seasonings adhere to the meat better. In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This will be the dry rub for the chicken. Sprinkle the dry rub evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs, making sure to coat them thoroughly.
Marinating the Chicken Thighs (Optional)
If you have some extra time, you can marinate the chicken thighs to enhance the flavors even further. To do this, place the seasoned chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag and add half of the barbecue sauce. Seal the bag tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight if possible. This step is optional but highly recommended if you want to take your BBQ chicken to the next level.
Air Frying the Chicken Thighs
Now it’s time to cook the chicken thighs in the air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. While the air fryer is heating up, brush the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Once preheated, place the chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket as this can affect the cooking process.
Cooking Time and Temperature
Cook the chicken thighs in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, flip the chicken thighs using tongs to ensure even browning. Brush the remaining barbecue sauce on the top of the chicken thighs and continue cooking until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This will ensure that the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat. If you prefer a crispier skin, you can increase the cooking time by 5 minutes.
Checking for Doneness
To check if the chicken thighs are cooked to perfection, insert an instant-read meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone. It should read 165°F (74°C) or higher. If the temperature is lower, continue cooking for a few more minutes until the desired temperature is reached.
Serving Your BBQ Chicken Thighs
Once the chicken thighs are cooked and have reached the proper temperature, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender chicken. Serve the BBQ chicken thighs with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables. You can also drizzle some extra barbecue sauce on top for an extra burst of flavor.
Conclusion
Cooking BBQ chicken thighs in an air fryer is a simple and convenient way to achieve delicious results. By following this easy recipe, you can enjoy tender, juicy chicken with a smoky, tangy flavor in no time. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue party or simply craving a flavorful meal, give this recipe a try and impress your taste buds with the amazing flavors of perfectly cooked BBQ chicken thighs. Happy cooking!