Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken Thighs: Crispy, Juicy Perfection!

Air fryer bacon wrapped chicken thighs are a game-changer! If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious dinner, this recipe is a must-try. The air fryer cooks the chicken thighs to juicy perfection, while the bacon becomes irresistibly crispy. It’s a winning combination of textures and flavors that will leave you wanting more.

This recipe is not only simple to make but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize the seasonings and sauces to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, these bacon-wrapped chicken thighs are sure to be a hit.

## Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Quick and Easy:** Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Crispy Bacon:** The air fryer makes the bacon incredibly crispy without being greasy.
* **Juicy Chicken:** Chicken thighs remain tender and juicy inside.
* **Versatile:** Easily customizable with different seasonings and sauces.
* **Minimal Cleanup:** The air fryer makes cleanup a breeze.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

* **Chicken Thighs:** Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are recommended for even cooking.
* **Bacon:** Thin-cut bacon works best for wrapping around the chicken thighs.
* **Brown Sugar:** Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the bacon.
* **Paprika:** Smoked paprika adds a smoky flavor.
* **Garlic Powder:** Enhances the savory flavor of the chicken.
* **Onion Powder:** Adds a subtle onion flavor.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste.
* **Optional: BBQ Sauce:** For brushing over the bacon-wrapped chicken thighs during the last few minutes of cooking.

## Equipment

* **Air Fryer:** A standard air fryer will work perfectly.
* **Mixing Bowl:** For mixing the seasonings.
* **Tongs:** For handling the chicken thighs.
* **Toothpicks (Optional):** To secure the bacon.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

### Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Thighs

1. **Pat Dry:** Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings adhere better and promotes browning.
2. **Trim Excess Fat:** Trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs to prevent splattering in the air fryer.

### Step 2: Mix the Seasonings

1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a small mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

### Step 3: Season the Chicken Thighs

1. **Apply Seasoning:** Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs. Gently rub the seasoning into the chicken to ensure it is well coated.

### Step 4: Wrap with Bacon

1. **Wrap Each Thigh:** Wrap each chicken thigh with one or two slices of bacon, depending on the size of the thigh and the bacon slices. Ensure the bacon is wrapped securely around the chicken.
2. **Secure with Toothpicks (Optional):** If desired, secure the bacon with toothpicks to prevent it from unwrapping during cooking. This is especially helpful if using thicker bacon.

### Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer (If Necessary)

1. **Preheat:** If your air fryer requires preheating, preheat it to 375°F (190°C). This helps ensure even cooking and crispy bacon.

### Step 6: Air Fry the Chicken Thighs

1. **Arrange Chicken:** Place the bacon-wrapped chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure proper air circulation.
2. **Cook:** Air fry for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

### Step 7: Add BBQ Sauce (Optional)

1. **Brush with Sauce:** During the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the bacon-wrapped chicken thighs with your favorite BBQ sauce, if desired. This adds a sweet and tangy flavor.

### Step 8: Serve

1. **Rest:** Let the chicken thighs rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
2. **Serve:** Serve the air fryer bacon wrapped chicken thighs immediately. They are delicious on their own or paired with your favorite sides.

## Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken Thighs

* **Use Thin-Cut Bacon:** Thin-cut bacon cooks more evenly and becomes crispier than thick-cut bacon in the air fryer.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Basket:** Overcrowding the air fryer basket can prevent the chicken and bacon from cooking properly. Cook in batches if necessary.
* **Check the Internal Temperature:** Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
* **Adjust Cooking Time:** Cooking times may vary depending on the air fryer and the size of the chicken thighs. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
* **Line the Air Fryer Basket (Optional):** Lining the air fryer basket with parchment paper can make cleanup even easier.
* **Add a Touch of Sweetness:** The brown sugar in the seasoning mixture adds a touch of sweetness that complements the savory bacon and chicken. You can also add a drizzle of maple syrup or honey during the last few minutes of cooking for extra sweetness.
* **Experiment with Seasonings:** Feel free to experiment with different seasonings to customize the flavor of the chicken thighs. Some other great options include chili powder, cumin, smoked salt, and Italian seasoning.
* **Use Different Types of Bacon:** Try using different types of bacon, such as maple bacon or peppered bacon, to add unique flavors to the chicken thighs.
* **Add Vegetables to the Air Fryer:** You can add vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, green beans, or bell peppers, to the air fryer basket along with the chicken thighs for a complete meal.
* **Make a Glaze:** Instead of using BBQ sauce, you can make a simple glaze by combining ingredients like honey, soy sauce, and ginger. Brush the glaze over the chicken thighs during the last few minutes of cooking for a sweet and savory flavor.
* **Marinate the Chicken:** Marinating the chicken thighs before wrapping them in bacon can add even more flavor and moisture. Use a marinade of your choice, such as a lemon herb marinade or a teriyaki marinade.

## Serving Suggestions

These air fryer bacon wrapped chicken thighs are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides.

* **Mashed Potatoes:** Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing for chicken and bacon.
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or sweet potatoes, make a healthy and delicious side dish.
* **Salad:** A fresh salad, such as a Caesar salad or a garden salad, provides a light and refreshing contrast to the rich chicken and bacon.
* **Rice:** Serve the chicken thighs over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a hearty meal.
* **Corn on the Cob:** Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a perfect summer side dish.
* **Coleslaw:** Creamy coleslaw adds a tangy and crunchy element to the meal.
* **Green Beans:** Sautéed or steamed green beans are a simple and healthy side dish.
* **Mac and Cheese:** Mac and cheese is a comforting and indulgent side dish that complements the chicken and bacon perfectly.

## Variations

* **Spicy:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning mixture for a spicy kick.
* **Sweet and Savory:** Brush the chicken thighs with a mixture of honey and soy sauce during the last few minutes of cooking for a sweet and savory flavor.
* **Italian:** Season the chicken thighs with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese before wrapping them in bacon.
* **BBQ:** Use your favorite BBQ rub to season the chicken thighs before wrapping them in bacon, and brush them with BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.
* **Stuffed:** Cut a pocket into each chicken thigh and stuff it with cheese, herbs, or vegetables before wrapping it in bacon.
* **Chicken Breast:** You can also use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs for this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken breasts tend to cook faster and can become dry if overcooked.
* **Turkey Bacon:** For a healthier option, use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon. Keep in mind that turkey bacon may not get as crispy as regular bacon.

## Make Ahead Instructions

You can prepare the bacon-wrapped chicken thighs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook them.

1. **Prepare:** Prepare the chicken thighs as instructed in the recipe, including seasoning and wrapping them in bacon.
2. **Store:** Place the prepared chicken thighs in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
3. **Cook:** When you are ready to cook the chicken thighs, remove them from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before air frying. This will help them cook more evenly.

## Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerate:** Store leftover air fryer bacon wrapped chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheat:** Reheat the chicken thighs in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but they may not be as crispy.
* **Freeze:** Freeze leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

(Per serving, based on one chicken thigh):

* Calories: 350-450
* Protein: 30-40g
* Fat: 20-30g
* Carbohydrates: 5-10g

*Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.*

## Conclusion

Air fryer bacon wrapped chicken thighs are a delicious and easy meal that is perfect for any occasion. With crispy bacon and juicy chicken, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

## Recipe Card

**Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken Thighs**

**Prep Time:** 10 minutes
**Cook Time:** 20 minutes
**Total Time:** 30 minutes

**Yield:** 4 servings

### Ingredients:

* 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
* 8 slices of thin-cut bacon
* 2 tablespoons brown sugar
* 1 teaspoon paprika
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1 teaspoon onion powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: BBQ sauce for brushing

### Instructions:

1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and trim any excess fat.
2. In a small mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs and rub it in gently.
4. Wrap each chicken thigh with 1-2 slices of bacon, securing with toothpicks if desired.
5. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) if necessary.
6. Place the bacon-wrapped chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
7. Air fry for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
8. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush with BBQ sauce if desired.
9. Let the chicken thighs rest for a few minutes before serving.
10. Serve immediately and enjoy!

**Notes:**

* Use thin-cut bacon for the best results.
* Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket.
* Adjust cooking time as needed, depending on your air fryer and the size of the chicken thighs.

Enjoy your delicious air fryer bacon wrapped chicken thighs! This recipe is incredibly versatile and allows for many variations to suit your taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for entertaining, this recipe is sure to impress. Remember to adjust the cooking time and seasonings to your liking, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different sauces and toppings. Happy cooking!