Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs (Ninja Speedi) Recipe

If you’re craving a juicy, flavorful dinner that comes together faster than you’d expect, wait until you try this Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs (Ninja Speedi) Recipe. This dish nails that perfect combination of crispy skin, tender meat, and sticky, tangy barbecue glaze, all made effortlessly in your Ninja Speedi air fryer. It’s one of those meals that feels like a treat yet is simple enough for busy weeknights or casual weekend cookouts. Trust me, once you make these chicken thighs, the Ninja Speedi will become your new favorite kitchen gadget for quick, delicious meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but pack a punch in flavor, texture, and color. Each one plays a vital role, from crisping the skin to seasoning the meat and finishing with that irresistible BBQ sauce glaze.

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: The star of the show, offering juicy meat and crispy skin when cooked right.
• 1 tbsp grapeseed oil: A neutral oil that helps the skin crisp beautifully without overpowering flavors.
• 1 tsp onion powder: Adds a subtle savory depth that complements the spices.
• 1 tsp paprika: Brings a lovely warm color plus a slightly smoky undertone.
• ½ tsp salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
• ½ tsp ground black pepper: Gives a mild kick and balances the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
• ½ tsp chili powder: Adds just enough heat to intrigue without overwhelming.
• ½ cup barbecue sauce: The finishing touch that delivers sticky, tangy, sweet-savoury goodness to coat the chicken.

How to Make Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs (Ninja Speedi) Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Ninja Speedi

Start by setting your Ninja Speedi air fryer to 390°F and preheating for 4 minutes. This ensures a hot environment that crisps up the chicken skin deliciously from the moment it hits the basket.

Step 2: Combine Your Seasonings

While you wait, mix together onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and chili powder in a small bowl. This blend gives the chicken that perfect flavor foundation to build on.

Step 3: Prep the Chicken

Pat your chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels. Dry skin is key for getting that coveted crispy texture in the air fryer.

Step 4: Oil and Season

Brush each chicken thigh with the grapeseed oil, making sure every bit of skin is coated. Then, sprinkle the seasoning mix all over the thighs evenly, rubbing it in to penetrate every nook and cranny.

Step 5: Arrange in the Basket

Place the chicken thighs skin side down in the preheated air fryer basket without overcrowding. Proper spacing allows hot air to circulate so the skin crisps evenly.

Step 6: First Cook Cycle

Cook the thighs at 390°F for 9 minutes, allowing the skin to start turning golden and crisping beautifully.

Step 7: Flip for Even Cooking

Flip the chicken to skin side up and continue cooking for another 9 minutes. This ensures the meat cooks through while maintaining that irresistible crisp.

Step 8: Add the BBQ Sauce

Generously brush each thigh with your favorite BBQ sauce. This will add a sticky, flavorful coating that caramelizes in the next step.

Step 9: Final Air Fry

Air fry the sauced chicken for an additional 2 to 4 minutes until the sauce caramelizes and the internal temperature reaches 175°F. This step delivers that irresistible sweet and smoky glaze.

Step 10: Rest and Serve

Remove the thighs and let them rest for 5 minutes. Resting locks in the juices and makes every bite juicy and satisfying.

How to Serve Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs (Ninja Speedi) Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro adds a vibrant green pop and a fresh contrast to the smoky BBQ flavors. You can also add thin slices of red onion for an extra zing.

Side Dishes

Create the perfect meal by pairing these chicken thighs with creamy coleslaw, buttery corn on the cob, or a simple mixed green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette. The sides help balance the richness of the BBQ chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these chicken thighs over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting dinner. Or, for a fun twist, shred the cooked meat and use it as a filling for sandwiches or tacos. The Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs (Ninja Speedi) Recipe offers so much versatility!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, place any leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 days, making for easy lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

These BBQ chicken thighs freeze well too. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-friendly bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the chicken thighs back into your air fryer at 350°F for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until warmed through and the skin is crisped again. This keeps the meat moist and the skin nice and crunchy.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs in this Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs (Ninja Speedi) Recipe?

Absolutely! Boneless thighs will cook faster, so reduce the cooking time slightly and keep an eye on the internal temperature to avoid drying out.

What if I don’t have grapeseed oil?

No worries at all! You can substitute with canola or vegetable oil, as these oils have a high smoke point and neutral flavor, just like grapeseed oil.

Is it okay to use homemade BBQ sauce?

Definitely! Homemade BBQ sauce can add a unique personal touch. Just make sure it isn’t too watery, so it caramelizes nicely during the last air fry step.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked perfectly?

The gold standard is an internal temperature of 175°F for chicken thighs, which ensures juicy, fully cooked meat without dryness. A meat thermometer is your best friend here.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Overcrowding reduces air circulation and can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy skin.

Final Thoughts

This Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs (Ninja Speedi) Recipe is a total game changer for quick, flavorful dinners that feel special. Whether you’re feeding family or impressing guests, this method delivers juicy, crispy, saucy chicken every time without all the fuss. Get ready to turn your Ninja Speedi into your kitchen’s MVP and enjoy a dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make!

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