Loving Rabbit Meat: A Lean, Healthy, High-Quality Protein

Here at our place, we love rabbit. When it comes to lean, healthy, and high-quality protein, rabbit truly fits the bill. Despite their unfair reputation as rodents, rabbits are actually lagomorphs—not rodents at all.

Living in Appalachia, there are a few things I simply won’t eat: rodents, roadkill, and turnips. 

Crispy Air-Fried Bacon-Wrapped Rabbit Recipe

Last night, I was craving some bone-in, chicken-style meat to really sink my teeth into. I briefly considered breading and frying rabbit, which is delicious—but frying is messy, and I only do it maybe twice a year. So instead, I created this simple air fryer recipe that I hope y’all will enjoy as much as we did.

Ingredients:

  • 1 whole fryer rabbit (or cut pieces)

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • Garlic powder, a sprinkle

  • Your favorite BBQ sauce (enough to brush on)

  • 1 (12 oz) pack of bacon

Instructions:

  1. Prep the Rabbit:
    If you’re using a whole rabbit like I did, I share how to easily break it down here. Trim it up to your liking and pat the pieces dry with paper towels.


  2. Season:
    Salt and pepper the pieces to taste, then sprinkle lightly with garlic powder.

  3. Add BBQ Flavor:
    Brush each piece generously with your favorite BBQ sauce.


  4. Wrap in Bacon:
    Wrap all the meaty parts of the rabbit in bacon. Don’t forget to roll up the belly flaps and top loin pieces to cover everything.

  5. Air Fry:
    Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Place the bacon-wrapped rabbit pieces in a single layer inside the basket. You may need to cook in batches—if so, store uncooked pieces in the fridge while you finish.


  6. Cook Time:
    Air fry for at least 1 hour, or until the juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

  7. Serve and Enjoy:
    Pair with your favorite sides and dig in!


If you try this recipe, let me know how it goes! Rabbit is a fantastic alternative protein that's both delicious and sustainable.

This post contains affiliate links. I do not link to anything I don't use on my own homestead and wouldn't recommend to friends and family.

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