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Air Fryer BBQ Pork Belly

Air Fryer BBQ Pork Belly - Crispy, Saucy, and Ready Fast

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Pre-heat 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Pork belly: 1.5–2 pounds, skinless, cut into 1-inch cubes or strips
  • Olive oil: 1 tablespoon, to help the rub stick
  • Brown sugar: 1 tablespoon
  • Smoked paprika: 2 teaspoons
  • Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Onion powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Ground black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Kosher salt: 1 to 1.5 teaspoons (adjust to taste and the saltiness of your BBQ sauce)
  • Cayenne or chili powder: 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon (optional, for heat)
  • BBQ sauce: 1/2 cup, your favorite style (sweet, spicy, or smoky)
  • Apple cider vinegar: 1 tablespoon, to brighten the glaze
  • Honey or maple syrup: 1 tablespoon, for extra gloss
  • Optional garnish: Sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or chopped parsley
  • Cooking spray: To lightly oil the air fryer basket

Instructions
 

  • Prep the pork belly: Pat the pork belly dry with paper towels. Drier pieces crisp better. Cut into even 1-inch cubes or strips so they cook at the same rate.
  • Season: In a bowl, toss the pork with olive oil. In a separate small bowl, mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, salt, and cayenne (if using). Sprinkle the rub over the pork and toss until fully coated.
  • Preheat the air fryer: Set to 400°F (200°C) and let it run for 3–5 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  • Arrange and cook: Place pork belly in a single layer in the basket, leaving a little space between pieces. Cook for 10 minutes at 400°F.
  • Shake and continue: Open the basket, shake or flip the pieces, and cook for another 7–10 minutes. You’re looking for golden-brown edges and rendered fat. Total time is usually 17–20 minutes, depending on piece size and your air fryer.
  • Make the glaze: While the pork cooks, warm the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and honey in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until glossy and slightly thickened, 2–3 minutes. Turn off the heat.
  • Glaze and crisp: When the pork is mostly crispy, transfer it to a bowl and toss with half the glaze. Return the pork to the basket and air fry 2–3 more minutes to set the sauce and caramelize the edges.
  • Finish and serve: Toss with the remaining glaze. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or parsley if you like. Serve hot.
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