Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Breast

This air fryer BBQ chicken breast is juicy, flavorful, and packed with protein. It’s an easy air fryer chicken recipe perfect for dinner, meal prep, and healthy lunches.

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Prep Time 7

Cook Time 15

Total Time 22

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 2

Calories 285 kcal

Equipment

Air fryer
Mixing bowl
Tongs
Meat thermometer
Cutting board

Ingredients

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
⅓ cup BBQ sauce

Optional

chopped parsley for garnish
extra BBQ sauce for serving

Instructions

Preheat the air fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3 minutes.
Prepare the chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If needed, pound thicker pieces lightly for more even cooking.
Season the chicken
Rub the chicken with olive oil, then season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Start air frying
Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10 minutes.
Add the BBQ sauce
Open the air fryer, brush the chicken with BBQ sauce, flip, and brush the other side.
Finish cooking
Cook for another 4 to 6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Rest and serve
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Add extra BBQ sauce if desired.

Notes

Add the BBQ sauce near the end so it does not burn.
Cooking time may vary depending on chicken breast thickness.
Use a meat thermometer for the best results.
Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.