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Crispy Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

crispy air fryer honey garlic chicken thighs - featured image

Crispy, sticky, and flavorful honey garlic chicken thighs cooked quickly in the air fryer with a perfect sweet and savory glaze.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 46 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds / 900 grams)
  • 1/4 cup (85g) honey
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons (45ml) soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
  • Freshly cracked black pepper
  • Pinch of salt (optional)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Honey Garlic Glaze: In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and olive oil. Set aside about 1/3 of this mixture for glazing later.
  2. Season the Chicken: Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Sprinkle with black pepper and salt if desired. Toss chicken in the larger portion of the glaze, coating well. Let sit for 10 minutes if possible.
  3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and preheat for 3-5 minutes.
  4. Air Fry the Chicken: Arrange chicken thighs skin-side down in the basket without overcrowding. Cook for 12 minutes, flip, then cook for another 10-12 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and skin is golden and crisp.
  5. Glaze and Finish: Remove chicken and brush with reserved honey garlic glaze. Return to air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 380°F (193°C) to caramelize the glaze.
  6. Rest and Serve: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute and glaze to set.

Notes

Pat chicken skin dry for best crispiness. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Double glaze the chicken for a sticky, shiny finish. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F. If using an oven, roast at 425°F (220°C) for 35-40 minutes on a wire rack, glazing twice.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken, honey garlic chicken, crispy chicken thighs, easy dinner, quick recipe, honey garlic glaze