Crispy BBQ Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer

Juicy BBQ chicken thighs in the air fryer basket with crispy skin covered in caramelized BBQ sauce.

5 from 1 vote

Crispy BBQ Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer

These crispy air fryer BBQ chicken thighs are seasoned with a smoky dry rub and brushed with sticky-sweet BBQ sauce. Juicy inside, crispy outside, and ready in under 30 minutes—this is your new favorite weeknight dinner.

Prep Time10

Cook Time18

Total Time28

Course: All Recipes, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Servings: servings

Calories: 417kcal

Author: Jeri Walker

Ingredients

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (1 to 1.5 lbs)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1½ teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
¾ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon chili powder (optional - omit for no heat)
½ cup BBQ sauce (any variety)

Instructions

Pat + Prep: Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Drizzle with olive oil and brush it on to coat all sides.
Season: Mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and chili powder (if using) in a small bowl. Sprinkle generously over both sides of the chicken.
Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 380°F and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes.
Air Fry – First Side: Place chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 10 minutes.
Flip + Sauce: Brush the thighs with BBQ sauce, flip the thighs over, then brush the tops with BBQ sauce. Air fry another 6–8 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 175°F.
Caramelize (Optional): Brush with more BBQ sauce and air fry for an additional 1-2 minutes if desired.
Rest + Serve: Transfer to a plate and rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve with extra BBQ sauce.

Video

Notes

Batch: This recipe serves 4. You can double the recipe, but cook in two batches to avoid overcrowding.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 4–5 minutes to crisp up the skin again.

Freezing: Let cooked chicken cool completely, then wrap and freeze in a single layer. Thaw in the fridge and reheat in the air fryer until hot.

Oven Instructions: No air fryer? Bake the chicken thighs on a lined baking sheet at 400°F for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 175°F. Flip and baste with BBQ sauce 5 minutes before they are done.

Air Fryer Cooking Times May Vary: Every air fryer model cooks a little differently depending on size, wattage, and basket style. I recommend checking your food a few minutes early the first time you try a new recipe. Use a meat thermometer whenever possible to make sure everything is cooked perfectly!

Nutrition