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Crispy Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

crispy air fryer honey garlic chicken thighs - featured image

Juicy chicken thighs with crispy skin and a sticky, sweet-savory honey garlic glaze, made quickly and easily in the air fryer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs / 700 g)
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Salt, to lightly season chicken skin
  • Optional garnish: chopped green onions or sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper. (About 5 minutes)
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, olive oil, and chili flakes if using. Whisk until well blended. (3 minutes)
  3. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes at room temperature.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  5. Place the chicken thighs skin side down in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between pieces.
  6. Cook for 12 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
  7. Flip the chicken thighs skin side up using tongs. Brush or spoon half of the remaining glaze over the skin. Cook for another 8-10 minutes.
  8. Flip once more, glaze again, and cook for a final 2-3 minutes to get a sticky, caramelized finish.
  9. Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and juices run clear.
  10. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry before seasoning is essential for crispy skin. Apply glaze halfway and near the end of cooking to avoid burning. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket for best crispiness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness. Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to refresh crispiness.

Nutrition

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