Best Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken

In recent years, air fryers have skyrocketed in popularity, transforming the way home cooks approach meal preparation. These compact appliances promise crispy, delicious food with significantly less oil than traditional frying methods, making them a favorite for health-conscious individuals. The versatility of air fryers allows for a wide range of recipes—from roasted vegetables to delectable desserts—catering to various culinary tastes and dietary needs.

Discover a delicious and healthier way to prepare a classic dish with this Savory Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken recipe. This crowd-pleaser combines tender, juicy chicken with a savory-sweet homemade teriyaki sauce, all cooked in an air fryer for that perfect crispy texture without the added oil. Explore easy step-by-step instructions, discover the nutritional benefits of chicken, and get inspired with serving suggestions to elevate your dinner table. This recipe is not just quick but also a flavorful way to impress your family and friends!

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Ingredients

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)

1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)

1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

2 tbsp rice vinegar

2 tbsp sesame oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated or minced

1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thicker sauce)

2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

Prep the Chicken: Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken thighs. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix in the cornstarch and whisk until combined.

Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the teriyaki marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).

Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.

Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess sauce to drip off. Place the chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches. Cook the chicken for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden brown exterior.

Prepare Extra Sauce (Optional): While the chicken is cooking, if you’d like additional sauce, take the leftover marinade (that hasn't touched the raw chicken), and bring it to a boil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Serve: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a serving plate. Drizzle with additional teriyaki sauce if desired, and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

Enjoy: Serve your delightful teriyaki chicken with steamed rice and vegetables, or over a salad for a fresh take!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 min | 50 min | Serves 4