Air Fryer Honey BBQ Explosion Chicken

Save this recipe on:

This Air Fryer Honey BBQ Explosion Chicken is a flavor-packed, weeknight miracle. Imagine succulent chicken thighs marinated in a sweet and smoky honey BBQ glaze, air-fried to golden perfection, then sliced and drizzled with even more sauce. The result? Juicy, caramelized bites with a satisfying crisp on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness within.

Perfectly served over a bed of fluffy white rice, this dish blends comfort food with convenience. It’s quick to prepare, easy to clean up, and satisfying enough to impress guests or satisfy picky eaters alike. A go-to for BBQ lovers craving a healthier, indoor twist on grilled favorites.

---

Ingredients for this Air Fryer Honey BBQ Explosion Chicken

• 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, if preferred)
• 1/2 cup honey BBQ sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for coating)
• Cooked white rice, for serving

---

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for deeper flavor).

---

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for about 3–5 minutes. If your air fryer requires a light coating of oil, spray the basket with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

---

Step 3: Air Fry the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip the chicken and cook for another 8–10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the outside is beautifully caramelized.

---

Step 4: Rest and Slice

Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice into strips or chunks, depending on your preference.

---

Step 5: Serve and Drizzle

Place the sliced chicken over a bed of freshly cooked white rice. Warm a little extra honey BBQ sauce and drizzle it generously over the top. Serve hot and enjoy the sweet, smoky flavor explosion!

---

Storage Instructions

Leftovers of the Air Fryer Honey BBQ Explosion Chicken can be easily stored and enjoyed later:

• Refrigerator: Store the sliced chicken and rice separately in airtight containers. The chicken will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in airtight freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: To maintain the crispy edges, reheat the chicken in the air fryer at 350°F for 4–5 minutes. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts with a splash of water to avoid drying out.

---

Estimated Nutrition

(Per serving, based on 4 servings with 1/2 cup cooked rice each)

• Calories: 370 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Sugars: 15g
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Fiber: 1g

Note: Nutrition may vary depending on exact brands and portions used.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes! Chicken breast works well too, though it may cook slightly faster. Keep an eye on internal temperature to avoid overcooking.

What’s the best honey BBQ sauce to use?

Any brand you like will work. For bolder flavor, use a smoky or spicy variety. Homemade sauce is also a great choice.

Can I skip the marinating time?

Marinating for at least 30 minutes is recommended to allow flavors to penetrate. However, in a pinch, you can cook it right away—the sauce will still deliver flavor.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out in the air fryer?

Avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to exactly 165°F (74°C). Marinating and resting the meat after cooking also help retain moisture.

What sides go well with this dish?

Besides rice, try it with steamed broccoli, roasted vegetables, or a fresh cucumber salad.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Absolutely. Add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or mix some hot sauce into the marinade for a spicy kick.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be, if you use gluten-free soy sauce and BBQ sauce. Always check labels to be sure.

Can I cook it in a regular oven?

Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches the proper temperature and is nicely glazed.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: