Introduction
Craving something crispy, juicy, sweet, and a little spicy? You’re going to love Air Fryer Honey BBQ Explosion Chicken! It’s a mouthwatering dish that’s packed with bold flavors—tender chicken, melty cheese, smoky BBQ sauce, and a touch of honey for sweetness. And the best part? You don’t need to deep fry it. Just pop it in the air fryer and let it work its magic.
This recipe is fun, easy, and perfect for dinner, parties, or game day snacks. Whether you’re cooking for your family or friends, these BBQ chicken bites will explode with flavor in every bite! Let’s get started!
Ingredients – Honey BBQ Explosion Chicken
Here’s everything you need to make Air Fryer Honey BBQ Explosion Chicken:
For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts (cut into strips or bite-size chunks)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4–6 slices of cooked bacon (chopped)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crispiness)
For the Honey BBQ Sauce:
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional for a spicy kick)
For Garnish (optional):
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Extra shredded cheese
Step by Step Process – Honey BBQ Explosion Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken into strips or chunks. Season them with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is well coated with the spices.
Step 2: Add the Explosion Filling
Take each chicken strip and make a small cut in the middle (like a pocket). Fill it with some shredded cheddar cheese and a bit of chopped bacon. Gently press it closed.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Set up three bowls:
- One with flour
- One with beaten eggs
- One with breadcrumbs
Dip each chicken piece first in flour, then egg, then roll it in breadcrumbs. Make sure it’s fully coated.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3–5 minutes. This helps the chicken get extra crispy!
Step 5: Air Fry the Chicken
Spray the air fryer basket with a little cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated chicken pieces in a single layer (don’t overcrowd). Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Step 6: Make the Honey BBQ Sauce
While the chicken is cooking, mix together BBQ sauce, honey, and hot sauce in a small bowl. Heat it in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or in a pan until warm and smooth.
Step 7: Toss in Sauce
Once the chicken is done, place it in a large bowl and pour the warm honey BBQ sauce on top. Toss gently until every piece is coated.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with extra bacon, cheese, or parsley on top if you like. Serve it hot and enjoy the explosion of flavor in every bite!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380–420 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Sugars | 9g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 720mg |
| Cholesterol | 105mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are a bit juicier and work great for this recipe too.
Q2: What kind of BBQ sauce should I use?
Any brand you love will work! Try a smoky, spicy, or hickory-flavored one for extra taste.
Q3: Can I make this without bacon?
Of course. The bacon adds crunch and flavor, but you can skip it or use turkey bacon instead.
Q4: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay good for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 4–5 minutes to bring back the crisp.
Q5: Can I freeze the chicken?
Yes! Freeze after coating (before air frying). When ready to cook, just air fry a little longer—add about 4–5 minutes to the cook time.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Honey BBQ Explosion Chicken is one of those recipes that makes everyone go “Wow!” It’s crispy on the outside, cheesy and juicy on the inside, and packed with that sweet and smoky BBQ flavor that’s hard to resist.
Plus, since it’s made in an air fryer, it’s healthier than deep frying—and less messy too! You don’t need to be a pro cook to make this dish. Just follow the simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Perfect for dinners, parties, or even as a tasty snack, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. So what are you waiting for? Grab your air fryer and get cooking!
