Enjoy this delicious and flavorful dish for dinner that’s easy to make, quick and great for meal prep! If you’re in search of an crisp, juicy and delicious dish this air Fryer Bacon wrapped chicken thighs recipe is a ideal fit. No matter if you’re following the keto, low-carb or Whole30-style diet or simply need some quick and easy dinner option for your weeknights This recipe is bursting with protein-rich deliciousness and a delightfully crisp texture.
Introduction
It’s hard to beat the combo of crisp bacon and succulent chicken tenders. This simple air-fryer dish isn’t just quick to cook, but is an excellent dinner prep option for the week. With the smallest amount of ingredient list and the best flavor this Bacon-wrapped chicken tenders make a great recipe to include in your healthy meal rotation. Additionally, having the air-fryer ensures that you enjoy the irresistible crispiness without deep-frying and making it an ideal healthy alternative to traditional methods of frying.
If you’re looking for an keto-friendly recipe for dinner or for a meal prep recipe that is high in protein or simply an innovative method to enjoy thighs of chicken This homemade air-fried chicken will surely satisfy.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken Thighs
To prepare this simple air fryer chicken meal you’ll need:
- 4 bones-free, skinless chicken thighs
- 8 bacon slices (thin-cut to give the best crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Irritating paprika
- Half teaspoon powder of onion
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dry thyme (optional for an extra flavor)
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor:
- half teaspoon cayenne (for spice)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (for an a little sweet and balanced savoury taste)
How to Make Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken Thighs – Step by Step
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Adjust the temperature of up your air fryer at 350degF (190degC) and let it heat up for 3 to 5 minutes. This will ensure that the bacon is crispy while it cooks uniformly.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
- in a bowl make a mixture of the garlic powder with the smoked paprika onion powder and salt along with the black pepper.
- rub the olive oil on the chicken thighs Then add the spice mix over the entire surface.
Step3: Wrap the Chicken in Bacon
- Take two bacon pieces for each thigh then wrap the bacon around your chicken ensuring that the ends are tied under.
Step4: Air Fry the Chicken
- Lay your bacon-wrapped chicken wings in the form of a one stack in the basket of an air fryer.
- Cook for 15 to 18 minutes Flipping the chicken halfway through cooking, until the bacon becomes crisp as well as the chicken is cooked to at an inner temperature of 160degF (75degC).
Step5: Rest and Serve
- Let the chicken sit at least five minutes before serving to seal into the liquids.
Helpful Tips for Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken Thighs
- Cut bacon thinly to achieve the most crisp and delicious results.
- Do not overload the basket of your air fryer–cook in small batches if you need to.
- Utilize a food thermometer to make sure the chicken is cooked thoroughly and not drying out.
- To add more crispness For extra crispiness, air cook for another 2 to 3 minutes at 400 degF (200degC).
Cooking Tips for the Best Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
- The chicken should be marinated for 30 minutes prior to wrapping to add flavor.
- Try different seasonings like Cajun spice, lemon pepper, or BBQ rub.
- Brush using the syrup of maple or honey within the final 5 minutes to create the caramelized look.
Serving Suggestions for Bacon Wrapped Chicken Thighs
Serve these tender wings of chicken with:
- Vegetables that are roasted (broccoli or carrots and Brussels sprouts)
- Mashed sweet potatoes or cauliflower
- A fresh garden salad
- Garlic Butter asparagus
- Cauliflower rice as keto-friendly meals
Nutritional Information
Serving:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 24g
- Sodium: 600mg
This recipe will be Keto-friendly and gluten-free and packed with protein which makes it an ideal option as a healthy meal preparation..
Storage and Leftovers for Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze Cover the cooked legs in foil, then keep them frozen until three months or more.
- Reheat Utilize an Air fryer set at 350degF (175degC) during 5 mins to ensure crispness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Bacon Wrapped Chicken Thighs
1. Can I substitute chicken breasts for thighs?
Yes! Set the cooking time at 12-15 mins for breasts of boneless chicken.
2. Do I have to cook this recipe using the oven?
Yes! Bake at 400 degrees F (200degC) at 25 to 30 minutes and flipping it halfway through.
3. What’s the best kind of bacon?
Thin-cut bacon cooks best in the air fryer but bacon that is thick may require an extra couple of extra minutes to cook.
4. Can I prep meals for this recipe?
Absolutely! Cover the meat with bacon prior to cooking and keep it in the refrigerator up to at least 24 hours prior to making the dish.
Related Recipes for Air Fryer Lovers
If you loved the Bacon-wrapped Chicken Thigh Recipe take a look at the following air fryer meal ideas:
- Cheesy Beef and Potato Casserole – Easy Dinner Recipe
- Cheesy Beef and Noodles Skillet – Easy Family Dinner
- Scallion Chicken Recipe – Easy & Delicious Dinner IdeaPrint
Easy Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken Thighs
Description
Welcome to a flavor-packed dinner recipe that’s quick, easy, and perfect for meal prep! If you’re looking for a crispy, juicy, and savory dish, this Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken Thighs recipe is the perfect fit. Whether you’re following a low-carb, keto, or Whole30 diet, or just need a weeknight dinner idea, this recipe is packed with high-protein goodness and a deliciously crispy texture.
Ingredients
Scale- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 8 slices of bacon (thin-cut for best crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional, for extra flavor)
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor:
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (for a spicy kick)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (for a slightly sweet and savory balance)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for 3-5 minutes. This ensures the bacon gets crispy and the chicken cooks evenly.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
- In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the olive oil over the chicken thighs, then sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly on all sides.
Step 3: Wrap the Chicken in Bacon
- Take two slices of bacon per thigh and wrap them around the chicken, making sure the ends are tucked underneath.
Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken
- Place the bacon-wrapped chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in the juices.
Notes
- Use thin-cut bacon for the crispiest results.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—cook in batches if needed.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked without drying out.
- For extra crispiness, air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes at 400°F (200°C).