Quick & Easy Air Fryer Hunter’s Chicken (Ready in Under 25 Minutes!)
This recipe for Hunter’s Chicken is a delicious and fast dinner that’s perfect for busy nights. With crispy bacon, juicy chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and melty cheese, it’s the ultimate comfort meal—all cooked in the air fryer!
Ingredients (Serves 2):
- 2 chicken breasts (1 per person)
- 4 bacon rashers (1–2 per chicken breast)
- 6 tbsp BBQ sauce
- 50g grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, or parmesan)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket at 190°C/375°F.
- Air fry for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Note: If you have a smaller air fryer, you may need to cook the chicken in batches.
2. Wrap in Bacon:
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the air fryer.
- Wrap 1–2 bacon rashers around each chicken breast.
- Secure the bacon with a cocktail stick if needed, to hold it in place.
3. Finish Cooking:
- Return the wrapped chicken back into the air fryer.
- Air fry for another 10 minutes, turning the chicken halfway through for an even cook.
4. Add BBQ & Cheese:
- Brush each chicken breast evenly with BBQ sauce.
- Sprinkle with grated cheese of your choice.
- Air fry for an additional 2–3 minutes, just until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
5. Serve Safely:
- Carefully remove the cocktail sticks.
- Check that the chicken is fully cooked using a knife or meat thermometer (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
- Serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or crispy fries.
Tips for Success:
- Air Fryer Models Vary: Air fryer temperatures and cooking times can vary depending on the brand/model. Keep an eye on your chicken to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
- Use Thick-Cut Bacon: Thick-cut bacon works best to maintain texture after air frying, but regular bacon will work too.
- Cheese Variations: Try different cheese blends like mozzarella for a gooey texture or cheddar for a sharper taste.
- Add Veggies: If you like, you can add vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the air fryer basket during the last few minutes of cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q/A)
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes! Chicken thighs will work just fine. Adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs may take a bit longer to cook than breasts. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F/75°C.
Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the chicken, wrap it in bacon, and store it in the fridge for up to 1 day before air frying. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly when you’re ready to eat.
Q3: What if I don’t have BBQ sauce?
A: You can use any sauce you like, such as buffalo sauce, honey mustard, or even a tangy tomato sauce. It will still be delicious!
Q4: Can I make this recipe for more than two people?
A: Yes! Just scale up the recipe by adding more chicken breasts, bacon, BBQ sauce, and cheese. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
Q5: How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
A: The best way is to use a meat thermometer. The chicken is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Alternatively, you can slice the chicken to make sure it’s no longer pink inside.
Q6: Can I add vegetables while cooking the chicken?
A: Absolutely! You can toss in some vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a complete meal.
Q7: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply place it back in the air fryer for a few minutes until hot and the cheese is melted.
Enjoy Your Juicy & Cheesy Air Fryer Hunter’s Chicken!
This quick and easy Hunter’s Chicken is perfect for a busy weeknight or when you’re craving something hearty and delicious. With minimal prep time and a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in no time!