Air fryers have revolutionized the way we cook, providing a quick and healthier alternative to traditional frying. When you’re craving the savory goodness of barbecue chicken but lack the time or energy for lengthy preparations, this air fryer recipe delivers delicious results in just 20 minutes. With tender, juicy meat and a flavor-packed glaze, this dish brings the taste of summer barbecue right to your kitchen any time of year.
Why We Love This Air Fryer BBQ Chicken – 20 Minutes
This air fryer BBQ chicken recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknight meals. The air fryer cooks chicken quickly, ensuring that it stays juicy and flavorful while developing a beautiful crispy exterior. Not only is it fast, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. You can enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen or cleaning up. The air fryer circulates hot air around the chicken, allowing it to cook evenly and absorb all the rich flavors of the barbecue sauce. Plus, you can customize the spice level and sauce to your personal preference, making it a versatile dish for anyone.
Ingredients for Air Fryer BBQ Chicken – 20 Minutes
- 4 chicken thighs or breasts, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing
Directions
- Begin by preheating your air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This blend will serve as a flavorful dry rub for the chicken.
- Pat the chicken with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve that coveted crispiness.
- Rub the dry spice mix all over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they are not touching for even cooking.
- Cook the chicken for 10 minutes, then flip them over.
- After flipping, brush the chicken with half of the barbecue sauce and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Brush the remaining barbecue sauce over the chicken and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Once done, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
How to Serve Air Fryer BBQ Chicken – 20 Minutes
Serving air fryer BBQ chicken is as simple as it gets, yet the presentation can make a big impact. You can plate the chicken on a large serving dish with a drizzle of the remaining barbecue sauce for a fresh and vibrant look. Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the rich flavors. Alternatively, serve it with classic sides like corn on the cob, coleslaw, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal. Feel free to garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for added color and freshness. You can also shred the chicken and serve it in a sandwich or wrap with some crunchy veggies for a delightful twist.
Expert Tips for Air Fryer BBQ Chicken – 20 Minutes
To achieve the best results when making air fryer BBQ chicken, keep a few expert tips in mind. First, consider marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight if you have the time. This adds depth to the flavor and makes the meat even more tender. Make sure to preheat your air fryer before cooking; this ensures that the chicken cooks evenly. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking and decreased crispiness. If necessary, cook in batches. Finally, let the chicken rest after cooking. This step locks in juices and improves the overall texture. Keeping a meat thermometer handy can also help you avoid undercooking or overcooking the chicken, ensuring a safe and delicious meal.
How to Store Air Fryer BBQ Chicken – 20 Minutes
To store air fryer BBQ chicken, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken. Place the cooled pieces in a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out as much air as possible before sealing. It will stay fresh for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat them in the air fryer or oven until heated through. If you have extra barbecue sauce, add a little while reheating to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
Variations of Air Fryer BBQ Chicken – 20 Minutes
One of the many beauties of air fryer BBQ chicken lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different cuts of chicken, such as wings or drumsticks, for varied textures and flavors. You can also try different barbecue sauces ranging from sweet and tangy to spicy or even mustard-based sauces. For a kick, add hot sauce or chili powder to the dry rub or sauce. Incorporate herbs like rosemary or thyme into the mix for a unique twist. For those following special diets, chicken can easily be cooked without sauce for a simple yet tasty meal, perfect for pairing with fresh vegetables or whole grains. Lastly, consider making BBQ chicken tacos by shredding the cooked chicken and tossing it with fresh toppings like avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
FAQ about Air Fryer BBQ Chicken – 20 Minutes
When making air fryer BBQ chicken, you might have some questions. One common inquiry is about cooking times. Cooking times can vary based on the thickness of the chicken; thinner cuts may require less time, while thicker pieces might need a few extra minutes. It’s essential to check the internal temperature and ensure it reaches at least 165°F (74°C). Some might ask if you can grill chicken in an air fryer. Yes, you can achieve similar results to grilling, thanks to the high heat and airflow of the air fryer. Another common question is whether you can use frozen chicken. While you can cook frozen chicken in the air fryer, it will need additional cooking time, so planning ahead is beneficial. Lastly, many wonder if you can use marinades. Absolutely! Just ensure to balance the seasoning and saucing so it complements the cooking process.
Air Fryer BBQ Chicken
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 pieces boneless and skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup your favorite barbecue sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- as needed cooking spray or olive oil for greasing
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create a dry rub.
- Pat the chicken with paper towels to remove excess moisture for crispiness.
- Rub the dry spice mix all over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or olive oil.
Cooking
- Place the chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching.
- Cook the chicken for 10 minutes, then flip them over.
- After flipping, brush half of the barbecue sauce over the chicken, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Brush the remaining barbecue sauce on the chicken and cook for another 5 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
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