Description
Air Fryer BBQ Chicken offers a fast, mess-free way to enjoy juicy, flavorful chicken with a smoky barbecue glaze. Sliced chicken breasts are coated in a robust blend of spices and brown sugar, then air fried to perfection for a crispy exterior and tender interior. Finished with a generous coating of BBQ sauce, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping, and pairs well with a variety of sides.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (1 1/2 pounds, 1/2 inch thick)
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions
- Slice the chicken breasts lengthwise into 1/2 inch thick cutlets.
- In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and brown sugar until combined.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Preheat the air fryer to 370°F for 4 minutes.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes.
- Brush the BBQ sauce over the chicken breasts and cook in the air fryer for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Notes
For substitutions, use chicken thighs for juicier results or swap out BBQ sauce for buffalo or teriyaki. If you don’t have smoked paprika, use regular paprika plus a pinch of cumin. Season the chicken ahead and refrigerate for up to 1 day to enhance flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the air fryer to maintain crispness. If chicken is browning too fast, lower air fryer temperature slightly. Ensure even cut sizes for uniform cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 chicken breast
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Air Fryer BBQ Chicken