BBQ Air Fryer Chicken Thighs with Smoky Glaze

1.In a mixing bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, salt, and pepper to create the smoky glaze.

2.Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure they crisp up nicely in the air fryer.

3.Coat the chicken thighs evenly with the smoky glaze, ensuring that the sauce gets under the skin for maximum flavor. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.

4.Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes.

5.Place the marinated chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, skin-side up, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

6.Air fry the chicken thighs for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown.

7.Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute for a juicier bite.

8.Serve the BBQ air fryer chicken thighs with additional barbecue sauce on the side, and enjoy!