Craving juicy, tender chicken that’s packed with flavor? Look no further than these air fryer BBQ chicken breasts. If you have time an overnight marinade gives the chicken a wonderful flavor, but if you are short on time dinner can be ready within 1 hour.
Flavorful Marinade That Makes a Difference
Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes—or even better, overnight—ensures that every bite is packed with smoky, tangy goodness.
Cooking with an Air Fryer
Preheating the air fryer is key to achieving that crispy exterior while sealing in the juices. Cooking at 375°F (190°C) yields perfectly cooked chicken with a deliciously glazed finish.
Flipping the chicken halfway through the cooking time ensures that both sides get the same attention, resulting in a uniform cook. This method allows for less oil usage while still delivering a satisfying texture and flavor.
Garnishing and Serving Suggestions
Pairing the chicken with colorful sides like grilled vegetables elevates the dish, creating an inviting and visually appealing setup. Don’t forget to include a small bowl of extra BBQ sauce on the side.
Delicious and Easy Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Breasts

These air fryer BBQ chicken breasts are marinated in a smoky glaze that brings a rich, savory flavor. The chicken turns out perfectly juicy on the inside with a slightly crispy exterior, making every bite a delightful experience.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Coat the chicken breasts in the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes, or overnight in the refrigerator for more flavor.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Chicken: Lightly brush the air fryer basket with olive oil. Place the marinated chicken breasts in the basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap.
- Air Fry: Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Glaze and Serve: Brush additional BBQ sauce over the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking. Remove from the air fryer, let rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 people
- Calories: 280kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 14g