If you’re craving a savory and hearty meal that’s packed with flavor and easy to make, Air Fryer Hunter’s Chicken is the answer! This dish, inspired by the classic British “hunter’s chicken,” combines juicy chicken breasts with crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a rich barbecue sauce. Cooking it in the air fryer makes everything come together in less time with less mess, while still delivering that crispy, golden crust and tender, juicy chicken inside.
Hunter’s Chicken is known for its bold, savory flavors, and using the air fryer to cook it not only cuts down on the cooking time but also gives the chicken a deliciously crispy exterior while keeping it moist and tender on the inside. It’s an ideal dish for a quick weeknight dinner or when you have guests over. The combination of smoky bacon, melty cheese, and tangy BBQ sauce makes it a comforting and crowd-pleasing meal.
Air Fryer Hunter’s Chicken Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of bacon (thin-cut works best)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (use your favorite kind)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if using). Drizzle the chicken with olive oil or spray with cooking spray to help with browning.
- Wrap the Chicken with Bacon:
- Take each seasoned chicken breast and wrap two slices of bacon around it. You can secure the bacon with toothpicks if needed, but the bacon should stay in place once it’s air-fried. This bacon will help create a crispy, savory coating while also adding a smoky flavor to the chicken.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Place the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). You may need to flip the chicken halfway through cooking to ensure it cooks evenly on both sides.
- Add BBQ Sauce and Cheese:
- Once the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy, brush each chicken breast generously with BBQ sauce. Then, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each piece of chicken.
- Final Air Fry:
- Place the chicken back in the air fryer and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the BBQ sauce has caramelized slightly.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Remove the chicken from the air fryer, let it rest for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions:
- Sides: Pair with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or mashed cauliflower for a complete low-carb meal.
- Rice: Serve over a bed of brown rice or quinoa if you’re craving something more substantial.
- Extra Sauce: Serve with additional BBQ sauce or a creamy dipping sauce for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 4 servings):
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 43g
- Total Carbs: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Net Carbs: 8g
- Sugar: 6g
- WW SmartPoints: 6 (per serving)
This Air Fryer Hunter’s Chicken is a must-try for anyone looking for a flavor-packed meal that’s easy to prepare, satisfying, and delicious. The bacon adds a smoky, crispy texture, while the BBQ sauce and melted cheese provide that comforting richness we all crave. Plus, with the air fryer doing most of the work, it’s a quick and hassle-free way to enjoy this hearty dish any day of the week. Whether you’re cooking for one or a whole family, this meal is sure to impress!
