BBQ Chicken Thighs (only 15 minutes in the air fryer)

Name: BBQ Chicken Thighs (only 15 minutes in the air fryer)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 19 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken thighs (boneless, skinless); 1 cup BBQ sauce of choice (reserve 2-3 Tbsp for finishing); 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; salt & pepper to taste; fresh parsley (chopped, optional for garnish)

Jump to Recipe

BBQ Chicken Thighs in the air fryer—juicy, flavorful, and ready in just 15 mins! A quick, easy dinner with simple ingredients and bold flavor.

bbq chicken thighs cooked in the air fryer

There’s nothing quite like the smoky, tangy sweetness of barbecue sauce clinging to a tender, juicy chicken thigh—especially when that delicious meal is ready in just 15 minutes. Enter: Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs. This quick and easy recipe uses simple ingredients, minimal prep, and the magic of the air fryer to deliver big flavor without the hassle of a grill or stovetop. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving that classic BBQ flavor without firing up the grill.

Whether you use homemade BBQ sauce or a trusted store-bought favorite, this easy chicken recipe guarantees flavorful chicken thighs with crispy edges and a moist, juicy center. You’ll love how effortlessly this dish comes together in the air fryer basket—and how beautifully it pairs with classic sides like sweet potato fries or coleslaw. If you’re looking for one of the best ways to whip up a delicious dinner using boneless, skinless chicken thighs, this recipe is it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Cook Time: These air fryer BBQ chicken thighs are ready in just 15 minutes. That’s faster than takeout!
Minimal Ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples—BBQ sauce, onion powder, garlic powder—you’ve got everything you need.
Juicy Results: Thanks to the even cooking of the air fryer, the chicken cooks perfectly while staying tender and juicy on the inside.
Easy Clean-Up: No pans to scrub or oil splatter to mop. Just line your air fryer basket with aluminum foil for the easiest cleanup ever.
Versatile Main Dish: This full recipe pairs with everything from sweet potato fries to a simple side salad or roasted veggies.

ingredients in air fryer bbq chicken thighs

A Breakdown of the Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful, easy air fryer chicken thighs recipe:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Juicier and more flavorful than boneless chicken breasts, and perfect for air frying.
1 cup BBQ sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce—sweet, smoky, spicy, or tangy. Reserve 2–3 tablespoons for brushing on at the end.
1 tsp garlic powder: For that warm, savory depth.
1 tsp onion powder: A pantry MVP that enhances the overall BBQ flavor.
Salt and pepper: To season the meat before the sauce goes on.
Fresh parsley (optional): For garnish and a pop of color.

Optional Additions: Want a spicy twist? Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to your BBQ sauce mixture for an extra kick.

How to Make the Recipe

This air fryer BBQ chicken recipe couldn’t be simpler. Here’s the step-by-step breakdown:

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, prepare your ingredients.
Pat dry the boneless chicken thighs using paper towels to ensure they crisp up. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Mix your seasoning blend: In a small bowl, stir together 1 cup BBQ sauce (reserve 2–3 tablespoons), garlic powder, and onion powder.
Coat the chicken: Place chicken thighs in a large bowl or on a cutting board and brush generously with the seasoned BBQ sauce on all sides.
Place chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overlapping for even cooking.
Cook: Air fry for 10 minutes. Then flip and cook for an additional 4–5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
Finish: Brush with the reserved BBQ sauce while the chicken rests for a few minutes before serving.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if you’d like and enjoy hot!

How to Store the Recipe

If you have leftovers (though we doubt you will!), here’s how to store them:

Refrigerate: Place cooled chicken in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
Reheat: For best results, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes or until warmed through. This helps retain the crispy edges and juicy texture.
Freeze: You can freeze cooked chicken thighs in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure juicy chicken thighs every time, check that the internal temperature hits 165°F.
Don’t Overcrowd: Place chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket to allow air to circulate properly.
Cut Smaller Pieces: If your chicken thighs are on the thicker side, consider cutting them into smaller pieces for quicker, even cooking.
Line with Foil: Use aluminum foil for easy cleanup—just make sure not to block air circulation.
Let the Chicken Rest: Resting for just 3–5 minutes after cooking helps juices redistribute for the most flavorful bite.

This Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs recipe is one of our favorite ways to make a delicious dinner with minimal effort. It’s fast, flavorful, and a total crowd-pleaser. With its simple ingredients and quick minutes of cooking, it’s a go-to for busy weeknights or anytime you’re craving that signature BBQ flavor without lighting the grill. Whether you’re new to air fryer recipes or a seasoned pro, this one’s sure to be a staple in your rotation.

Try it once, and we bet it’ll become your new weeknight obsession.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but keep in mind that breasts tend to dry out faster. Adjust the cook time as needed and monitor with a meat thermometer.

What’s the best BBQ sauce for this recipe?

Use your favorite BBQ sauce! Whether it’s sweet and smoky or spicy and bold, the flavor will shine. You can also try a homemade BBQ sauce for full control over the sweetness and spice.

Can I marinate the chicken in the BBQ sauce overnight?

Absolutely. Marinating adds extra depth and tenderness, especially if you have the time to prep ahead.

What should I serve with these air fryer BBQ chicken thighs?

This flavorful dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, sweet potato fries, a corn salad, or coleslaw. It also works great in a sandwich or wrap.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook in batches to ensure even cooking. Overcrowding the basket will affect how well the chicken cooks.

More Air Fryer Recipes

coconut shrimp fresh out of the air fryer — Naan Pizza