Description
These succulent air fryer teriyaki chicken thighs deliver a perfect balance of savory and sweet with a sticky, caramelized glaze. By using an air fryer, you achieve irresistibly crispy edges while keeping the meat incredibly juicy and tender. This homemade version is completely alcohol-free and free of preservatives, making it a healthy and quick weeknight dinner that the whole family will love. Enjoy the authentic umami depth of a classic Japanese-inspired favorite with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
2 to 2.5 pounds chicken thighs
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup honey
1/2 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1/4 cup water
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon water (for slurry)
Sliced green onions for garnish
Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, 1/4 cup water, minced garlic, and ginger.
Bring sauce to a simmer over medium heat, then whisk in the cornstarch and 1 teaspoon water slurry until thickened.
Pat the chicken thighs dry and arrange them in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Air fry at 380°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Brush the prepared teriyaki glaze generously over the chicken during the last 3-5 minutes of cooking.
Remove from the air fryer and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
Use bone-in, skin-on thighs for maximum crispiness or boneless, skinless for a lower-fat option. Ensure the sauce has fully thickened before applying to avoid a runny coating. Always use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Chicken Dinner
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Japanese-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thigh
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 110mg