Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
crispy air fryer honey garlic chicken thighs - featured image

Crispy Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs


  • Author: Harper
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A quick and easy 20-minute dinner featuring boneless, skinless chicken thighs coated in cornstarch for extra crispiness, tossed in a sticky, sweet, and savory honey garlic sauce. Perfect for weeknights and family-friendly.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • Generous crack of black pepper
  • 68 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 2 stalks green onions, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • Lime wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels. Place in a bowl and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Toss to coat.
  2. Sprinkle cornstarch over the chicken and toss again until each piece is lightly coated in a fine, powdery layer.
  3. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the basket with oil.
  4. Arrange chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching. Cook for 6 minutes.
  5. Flip the chicken and cook for another 6-9 minutes, or until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. While chicken cooks, combine minced garlic, grated ginger, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, water, and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan over medium heat.
  7. Whisk constantly and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens slightly and becomes glossy.
  8. Remove sauce from heat and stir in sesame oil.
  9. Transfer cooked chicken to a large bowl. Pour warm sauce over chicken and toss gently to coat evenly.
  10. Serve immediately on a platter, garnished with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Pair with steamed rice or vegetables.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure crispiness; cook in batches if necessary. Pat chicken dry thoroughly before coating. The sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Do not microwave leftovers as it makes the chicken soggy; reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispness.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: Asian Fusion

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 22
  • Sodium: 650
  • Fat: 18
  • Saturated Fat: 4
  • Carbohydrates: 28
  • Fiber: 1
  • Protein: 30

Keywords: air fryer chicken, honey garlic chicken, crispy chicken thighs, quick dinner, weeknight meals, gluten-free option, family friendly