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Boneless BBQ Chicken Thighs in an Air Fryer: A Quick and Delicious Recipe

If you’re looking for a hassle-free, tasty dinner option that doesn’t compromise on flavour, look no further than boneless BBQ chicken thighs cooked in an air fryer. This method not only keeps your kitchen clean but also delivers succulent and juicy results without the need for traditional frying. Here’s how to create a scrumptious dish that the whole family will love.

Why Choose Boneless Chicken Thighs?

Boneless chicken thighs are undeniably one of the most forgiving cuts of meat. They are richer in flavour and remain moist even when cooked at higher temperatures — making them ideal for air frying. Unlike chicken breasts that can easily dry out, thighs are more forgiving, ensuring a tender bite every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make boneless BBQ chicken thighs in your air fryer, gather the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup of your favourite BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional Garnish: Chopped fresh parsley or spring onions for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by rinsing the boneless chicken thighs under cold water and patting them dry with kitchen paper. This will help the seasonings adhere better. In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning mixture over the chicken thighs to ensure they are well coated.

Step 2: Marinate

For the best flavour, allow the chicken to marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, marinating for a few hours or overnight will enhance the taste even further.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

While the chicken is marinating, preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F). Preheating ensures the chicken cooks evenly and develops a lovely crispy exterior.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken Thighs

Once the air fryer is ready, place the marinated chicken thighs in the basket in a single layer. Be careful not to overcrowd the basket, as this can hinder cooking. Cook for approximately 12 minutes, then flip the thighs halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Brush with BBQ Sauce

After the thighs have cooked for about 12 minutes, open the air fryer and brush a generous amount of BBQ sauce on the top of each thigh. Cook them for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F) and the sauce is caramelised and sticky.

Step 6: Serve

Once cooked to perfection, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite even more succulent. Slice the thighs if desired, and serve with an extra dollop of BBQ sauce and your choice of sides — think coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a fresh garden salad.

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Chicken

• Don’t skip marinating: This step is crucial for enhanced flavour.
• Use a meat thermometer: To accurately check doneness, invest in a meat thermometer to ensure optimal cooking without overdoing it.
• Experiment with flavours: Feel free to add spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, or herbs to change up the taste profile.

Conclusion

Boneless BBQ chicken thighs cooked in an air fryer are a perfect solution for busy weeknight dinners. The balance of convenience, speed, and mouth-watering flavour makes this dish a winner in any household. So dust off that air fryer and treat your family to a delightful BBQ evening any day of the week! Enjoy!