Sugar Daddy Thighs (Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs)

Sugar Daddy Thighs are Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs that are sweet, spicy, and barbecue-glazed, made in the air fryer. An easy, flavor-packed main dish for busy weeknights or summer cookouts

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You’ll Love This Recipe Because…

• It’s wildly flavorful — spicy, sweet, and smoky in all the right ways.
• It comes together in minutes with a quick marinade and air fryer magic.
• The Sugar Daddy Seasoning is chef’s kiss — a little goes a long way.
• It’s perfect for weeknights, dinner parties, or meal prep.

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What Are Sugar Daddy Thighs?

Y’all. These juicy, sticky-sweet BBQ chicken thighs have sugar, spice, and everything nice going on — thanks to the iconic Sugar Daddy Seasoning collab between @TPain and @Spicewalla. We’re talking paprika, brown sugar, cayenne, and more.

Marinated with olive oil and Worcestershire sauce, air-fried to crispy perfection, and brushed with a homemade honey-barbecue glaze, these thighs are as extra as the name suggests.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken Thighs:

• 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp Sugar Daddy Seasoning
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

For the Honey BBQ Glaze:

• 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite!)
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp Sugar Daddy Seasoning

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Instructions

1. Marinate the Thighs
In a large zip-top bag, combine chicken thighs, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, and Sugar Daddy Seasoning. Massage everything together so the chicken gets fully coated. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

2. Preheat & Air Fry
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Add thighs to the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 14–16 minutes, flipping halfway, until internal temp reaches 165°F.

3. Make the Glaze
While the chicken cooks, stir together barbecue sauce, honey, and a little more Sugar Daddy seasoning in a small bowl.

4. Brush & Finish
During the last 2–3 minutes of cooking, brush the glaze onto the chicken. You can also give it another brush right before serving for that sticky-saucy finish.

5. Serve Hot!
Sprinkle with extra seasoning or chopped herbs and dig in. These are unreal.

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Tips & Tricks

• Can’t find Sugar Daddy Seasoning? Mix paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, cayenne, and salt for a quick DIY version. Or, use my favorite seasoning blend, Smokehouse Maple and if you want it spicy, add some red pepper flakes!
• Try this glaze on wings, drumsticks, or even grilled tofu!
• Serve with cornbread, slaw, or grilled corn for the ultimate Southern-style meal.

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What to Serve With Sugar Daddy Thighs

• Jiffy Corn Pudding
• Old Fashioned Macaroni and Cheese
• Tomato Firecracker Salad
• Homemade Peach Iced Tea

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Tools & Equipment

• Air Fryer
• Zip-top bags or reusable silicone bags
• Basting brush
• Instant-read thermometer

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FAQ

Can I bake these instead of air frying?
Yes! Bake at 400°F for 25–30 minutes or until internal temp reaches 165°F. I’ve got a post on crispy baked chicken thighs in the oven that you might find helpful!

Can I use bone-in thighs?
Absolutely — just increase the cooking time by about 5–7 minutes.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Marinate ahead and store in the fridge up to 24 hours. Air fry fresh and glaze before serving.

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If you’re a fan of spicy-sweet Southern flavors, this one’s a must-try. Don’t forget to tag me when you make these — I love seeing your Sugar Daddy creations!

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