Description
Crispy, smoky chicken thighs glazed with tangy barbecue sauce and air-fried for juicy results. A quick, hassle-free recipe using pantry-friendly spices and no deep-frying.
Ingredients
6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp red chili powder or cayenne pepper
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Extra sauce for serving (optional)
Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Pat chicken thighs dry and score the meaty side with shallow cuts near the bone.
Mix garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, black pepper, and salt into a dry rub.
Season both sides of the thighs evenly with the rub.
Place in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes.
Flip the thighs and brush with half the barbecue sauce.
Cook for 7-10 minutes more, until golden and crisp.
Remove, brush with remaining sauce, and let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use whiskey-free or halal-certified BBQ sauce to avoid alcohol.
Patting dry the thighs is crucial for crispy skin.
Customize with paprika for a Cajun twist or honey-mustard glaze.
Garnish with cilantro or lime for brightness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 130mg