Easy Air Fryer BBQ Chicken

This Easy air-fryer BBQ Chicken recipe, prepared in the Ninja Foodi, delivers all the flavor without the hassle of grilling. If you’re craving the smoky, caramelized taste of BBQ, this dish is perfect for you.

Whether you choose chicken breasts or thighs, this recipe ensures juicy meat and crispy edges in under 30 minutes. Using a Ninja Foodi or any other air fryer revolutionizes cooking, especially when it comes to achieving both juicy and crispy chicken simultaneously. This is a perfect quick weekend dinner recipe that takes 5 minutes of prep time. You can pair it with my easy Italian chopped salad for a quick dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Healthier Option: Less oil, same bold BBQ flavor.
• Versatile: Works with chicken breasts, thighs, or drumsticks.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Great hot or cold, and easy to reheat.

Ingredients Needed

For the BBQ Sauce

• Tomato ketchup
• Worcestershire sauce
• Red wine vinegar
• Honey
• Salt
• Smoked paprika
• Garlic powder

For the Chicken

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Smoked paprika
• Cayenne pepper (optional)
• Black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the BBQ Chicken

1. Preheat the Ninja Foodi/ Air fryer

Set your Ninja Foodi to the Air Crisp function at 390°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes.

2. Season the Chicken

In a bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is evenly coated.

3. Add the BBQ Sauce and Air fry

Brush a generous layer of BBQ sauce on each piece. Cook for another 8–10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

5. Caramelize the Sauce

For that sticky, caramelized finish, brush on a second layer of BBQ sauce and air fry for an additional 2–3 minutes.

Pro Tips for Perfect Air Fryer BBQ Chicken

• Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the basket—air circulation is key for crispiness.
• Try different BBQ sauces—smoky, spicy, or sweet, depending on your mood.

Serving Suggestions                                          

This ninja foodie BBQ chicken can be paired with any side dish, and here are a few of my favorites:

• Air-fried sweet potato wedges
• Creamy coleslaw
• Jollof Rice
• A crisp garden salad
• Rice and Beans

Storage & Reheating

Store: Some leftovers of the air fryer chicken breast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To freeze: Place the cooked and cooled chicken breasts in a ziplock bag and store them in the freezer for up to two months.

Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes to maintain crispiness. You can also microwave the chicken for 20-30 seconds, or until it is warmed through.

Other Recipes

Chopped Salad Recipe

Baked Chicken Thigh Recipe

Tatale

Homemade Rolls

Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

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Thanks for reading. As always, stay blessed!

Happy Cooking!