Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Breast
Perfectly juicy BBQ chicken breast made in the air fryer with a caramelized sauce exterior and tender, flavorful interior. This technique uses a two-stage sauce application for optimal flavor development.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6-8 oz each)
- 1/2 cup high-quality BBQ sauce divided
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
Method
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. For best results, pound to even 3/4-inch thickness.
- In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if using).
- Brush chicken with olive oil, then apply the seasoning mixture evenly to both sides.
- Preheat air fryer to 380°F for 3 minutes.
- Brush each chicken breast with 2 tablespoons of BBQ sauce, coating both sides.
- Place chicken in the air fryer basket with space between pieces for air circulation.
- Cook for 10 minutes at 380°F.
- Flip chicken breasts and continue cooking for 5 minutes.
- Apply second layer of BBQ sauce (about 1 tablespoon per breast) to both sides.
- Return to air fryer for 3-5 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F and sauce is caramelized.
- Remove chicken and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Note
- For extra juiciness, brine chicken in 2 cups water with 2 tablespoons kosher salt and 1 tablespoon brown sugar for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Choose BBQ sauce with 35-45% sugar content for optimal caramelization.
- Always verify doneness with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part.
- If sauce begins to burn, reduce temperature by 10°F.
- For meal prep, slightly undercook (to 160°F), cool rapidly, and refrigerate.