Crispy Air Fryer BBQ Tofu
Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. No complicated ingredients, no long marinating required.
Ingredients
1 block (14–16 oz) firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp cornstarch
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional but delicious)
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ cup BBQ sauce (plus more for serving)
Instructions
Preheat air fryer to 380°F.
Press tofu for at least 10–15 minutes to remove excess moisture. I place the tofu on a plate, cover it with wax paper and then place a cast iron skillet on top.
Cut into cubes, rectangles, or “nuggets”—your choice.
In a bowl, gently toss tofu with:
Olive oil
Cornstarch
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Smoked paprika
Salt + pepper
Cornstarch helps create a crisp, golden coating. Don’t skip it!
Arrange tofu in a single layer (no stacking).
Cook 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and slightly crispy.
Transfer hot tofu to a bowl and toss with BBQ sauce. I use Stubb’s.
Return to air fryer for 3–4 additional minutes to caramelize.
Serving Ideas
Over rice bowls with steamed veggies
In wraps with coleslaw
On a salad
As a high-protein snack
In a sandwich on toasted bread
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Regina is a writer, homeschooling mom, and owner of a soul food catering business. A contributor to several publications, including Tracie Miles' Living Unbroken book study, she is also an advocate for young adults with developmental disabilities and serves on the Compel Pro volunteer leadership team. Living in Ohio with her family, she designs Squarespace websites for fellow creatives and spends her free time cheering her sons from the sidelines or sipping tea while chatting with women about God’s goodness.
