Name: Easy Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken Thighs
Ingredients: 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); ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (for a spicy kick); 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (for a slightly sweet and savory balance)

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).