Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Skillet

• Yukon Gold potatoes: cubed for perfect crispiness in the air fryer and buttery flavor
• Olive oil: to coat potatoes so seasonings stick and help them brown beautifully use a good extra virgin for best taste
• Garlic powder: for savory depth across the potatoes
• Smoked paprika: brings a rich smoky note opt for Spanish if you can for deeper color
• Kosher salt: brightens flavors using a coarse grain lets you control saltiness
• Black pepper: freshly ground gives the dish a little bite grind just before using for best aroma
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: cut to even sizes for juicy quick-cooking pieces aim for plump firm breasts
• Ranch seasoning: boosts flavor with herbs and a hint of tang a little goes a long way so use a good quality brand
• Onion powder: pairs with garlic powder to round out the chicken seasoning and add savoriness
• Unsalted butter: melts in the skillet to brown the chicken and adds richness go for high quality for best flavor
• Fresh garlic: adds that essential punch and aromatic warmth mince right before using for intensity
• Barbecue sauce: choose your favorite brand or homemade for tangy sticky coating on the chicken
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: delivers gooey melt and mild creaminess shred your own from a block if you can for better melt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes:

Cut Yukon Gold potatoes into half-inch cubes then toss them thoroughly in olive oil garlic powder smoked paprika salt and pepper the oil ensures the spices cling to every surface for optimal flavor

Air Fry the Potatoes:

Arrange the seasoned cubes in a single layer inside the air fryer basket Cook at four hundred degrees Fahrenheit shaking two or three times as they cook for twenty to twenty five minutes until each cube is golden crisp on the outside and tender within

Brown the Chicken:

While potatoes are cooking heat a large oven safe skillet over medium high add unsalted butter and allow it to melt Sauté the chicken cubes with salt pepper ranch seasoning and onion powder Stir occasionally until chicken is brown and fully cooked about six to eight minutes

Add Garlic and BBQ Sauce:

Lower the heat to medium low Stir in the minced garlic for one minute until the aroma blooms then pour in barbecue sauce Stir well until every piece of chicken is coated in the glossy sauce

Combine Potatoes and Chicken:

Add the crisped potatoes from the air fryer into the skillet with the chicken Gently fold to combine so each potato gets a little sauce

Melt the Cheese:

Scatter shredded mozzarella evenly over the top Either cover the skillet on the stove for two to three minutes for a gentle melt or slip under a broiler for a minute or two to get the cheese bubbling and just golden brown

Serve and Enjoy:

Spoon the cheesy BBQ chicken and potatoes straight from the skillet Optional drizzle with extra barbecue sauce Hot cheesy and ready for the table

Pin

This combination of smoky paprika and sweet barbecue sauce is my favorite part—the balance is spot on Every time I pull the hot skillet from the oven my kids race to the table and beg for the corners where the cheese turns crispy and brown It always reminds me of sharing comfort food at my grandma’s house as a child

Storage Tips

Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to three days The best way to keep potatoes crispy is reheating in the air fryer or in a hot oven for about five to ten minutes Microwaving works in a pinch but will soften the potato edges

Ingredient Substitutions

Chicken thighs can be swapped in for a juicier more flavorful meat If you love a sweeter spin sweet potatoes swap in beautifully Any melty cheese will work well so try cheddar pepper jack or Colby Jack for a twist on the flavor profile

Serving Suggestions

This skillet makes a full meal on its own but is especially satisfying alongside a crisp green salad with vinaigrette Fresh steamed corn or even a side of broccoli make bright colorful plates for serving family style

Pin

No Air Fryer No Problem

Roast potatoes on a large baking sheet in a hot oven around four twenty five degrees Fahrenheit flipping with a spatula halfway through This method keeps the potatoes crunchy and delicious if you need to cook for a crowd or do not own an air fryer

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I keep the potatoes extra crispy?

Cut potatoes into uniform cubes and avoid overcrowding your air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed, and shake the basket multiple times for even crisping.

→ Can I substitute chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs offer a richer flavor and remain tender after sautéing and saucing.

→ What cheese can I use besides mozzarella?

Cheddar, Colby Jack, or pepper jack all melt well and add their own character to the skillet topping.

→ How should I reheat leftovers?

For best texture, reheat in the air fryer or in a 375°F oven until the potatoes regain crispness and the cheese melts again.

→ Can I make this without an air fryer?

Bake potatoes in a single layer at 425°F, turning halfway, until golden and crisp, then proceed as directed in the skillet.

→ Are there serving suggestions for this meal?

This dish pairs nicely with simple salads, steamed broccoli, or corn on the cob for a balanced plate.