Easy Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken Thighs

Easy Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken Thighs are a weeknight win when you want big flavor without babysitting the stove. Juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and the air fryer doing all the heavy lifting—this one disappears fast.

Easy Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken Thighs are the kind of no-nonsense dinner that feels fancy but takes almost zero effort.

Boneless chicken thighs stay juicy on the inside while the bacon crisps up perfectly in the air fryer, giving you bold, savory flavor without turning on the oven or making a mess.

This is one of those recipes you’ll keep on repeat when you want comfort food that actually fits into a busy night.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Crispy bacon without firing up the oven—your kitchen stays cool.
• Juicy chicken thighs that don’t dry out (because nobody wants sad chicken).
• Simple ingredients you probably already have in the fridge.
• Fast cook time, so dinner happens before everyone gets hangry.
• Feels fancy enough for guests but easy enough for a random Tuesday night.

This is a great recipe that the whole family will love! If you are looking for easy meals, some of my favorite easy air fryer recipes are Air Fryer Juicy Chicken Breast, Air Fryer Chicken Thighs, Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs, or Air Fryer Chicken Legs.

Ingredients Needed

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Juicy boneless chicken thighs for easy air fryer cooking
• Lemon, quartered: Fresh lemon quarters add brightness and balance
• Fresh thyme sprigs: Fresh thyme sprigs for herby savory flavor
• Dried oregano: Dried oregano adds classic Mediterranean seasoning
• Garlic cloves: Chopped garlic cloves bring bold aromatic flavor
• Olive oil: Olive oil helps seasonings stick and cook evenly
• Salt: Salt enhances the natural flavor of chicken
• Black pepper: Black pepper adds mild heat and depth
• Bacon or prosciutto: Bacon or prosciutto wraps chicken in savory crispness
• Honey (optional): Honey adds a touch of sweet contrast

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add smoked paprika, cayenne, or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a little heat that plays nicely with the bacon.
• Garlic Butter Style: Swap olive oil for melted butter and add extra garlic for richer, more indulgent flavor.
• BBQ Twist: Brush the chicken with barbecue sauce during the last few minutes for sticky, smoky goodness.
• Honey Mustard: Mix honey with Dijon mustard and brush it on before cooking for sweet-and-tangy vibes.
• Italian-Inspired: Use Italian seasoning and wrap with prosciutto for a saltier, more delicate finish.

How To Make Easy Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken Thighs

Step One: Preheat your air fryer temperature to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) for 2-3 minutes. Dry the chicken thighs with a paper towel.

Step Two: In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Season the chicken thighs with this mixture, ensuring they are well coated. Wrap a bacon slice around each seasoned chicken thigh, securing the ends with toothpicks if needed.

Step Three: Lightly brush or spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Arrange the bacon-wrapped chicken thighs in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they do not touch each other.

Step Four:  Set cook time for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through cook time. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the bacon is crispy and browned. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly.

Easy Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken Thighs Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the basket: Give each thigh some space so the bacon crisps evenly.

• Use boneless thighs: They cook faster and stay juicy without drying out.
• Check bacon doneness: Depending on thickness, you may need to add a few extra minutes for crispiness.
• Rest before slicing: Let the chicken rest 3–5 minutes to lock in juices.
• Optional glaze: Brush with honey or BBQ sauce in the last 2–3 minutes for a sticky finish.

Storing Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store cooled chicken in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil or freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes to restore crispiness, or microwave until warmed through.

Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken Thighs Recipe Faqs

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs? Yes, but they will take longer to cook—usually 5–7 extra minutes. Always check the internal temperature to reach 165°F.

Can I make this ahead of time? You can prep the chicken and wrap it in bacon ahead, but cook right before serving for the crispiest bacon.

What if I don’t have an air fryer? Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway, until bacon is crisp and chicken is cooked through.

Can I use turkey bacon or prosciutto instead of regular bacon? Absolutely! Turkey bacon will be leaner and may need slightly less cooking time. Prosciutto gives a saltier, delicate flavor.

How do I make the bacon extra crispy? Pat the bacon-wrapped chicken dry before wrapping, don’t overcrowd the basket, and cook until the bacon edges are golden brown.

Can I add a glaze or sauce? Yes! Brush with honey, maple syrup, or barbecue sauce during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking for a sticky, flavorful finish.

How should I store leftovers? Keep cooled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.

More Air Fryer Chicken Recipes

• AIR FRYER CHICKEN FAJITA BURRITOS
• EASY AIR FRYER CHINESE CHICKEN FINGERS
• AIR FRYER CHICKEN FAJITA RICE BOWL

Don’t Forget To Pin!

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