Sticky sweet chili chicken thighs cooked in an air fryer

Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in the air fryer are a delicious and easy meal option. They combine the flavors of sweet chili sauce and soy sauce, creating a tasty glaze that sticks to the chicken. Plus, cooking in the air fryer gives you crispy skin without needing a lot of oil. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a fun gathering with friends.

How to Make Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer

Ingredients :

  • 8 bone-in chicken thighs
  • 1 tbsp avocado oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp pepper
  • ½ cup sweet chili sauce
  • 3 tbsp of soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil

Directions :

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel to ensure a crispy chicken skin.
  3. Season the chicken thighs with avocado oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Air fry the chicken skin side down at 375 degrees for 15 minutes.
  5. Sticky Glaze: In a separate small bowl, mix together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, and oyster sauce.
  6. Baste the chicken a few times with the sticky sauce while roasting or air frying. You want the chicken to be caramelized. I basted the chicken at least 3 times to get a nice coat of the glaze.
  7. Add more 10 minutes of cooking time to the chicken or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  8. For an extra crispy finish, broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning and ensure that the chicken skin becomes beautifully caramelized.
  9. Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
  10. Serve your Sticky Sweet Chilli Chicken Thighs over a bed of jasmine rice or with your favorite vegetable side dishes.

How to Serve Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs

Serve Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs on a plate and drizzle extra sauce on top for added flavor. Pair them with steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried vegetables to complete the meal. You can also garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a nice touch.

How to Store Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs

To store leftover chicken thighs, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips to Make Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs

  • Make sure to pat the chicken dry; this helps to get the skin crispy.
  • Adjust the amount of sweet chili sauce to suit your taste. If you like it sweeter, add more sauce.
  • Basting during cooking adds flavor and helps achieve a nice glaze.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through.

Variation

You can easily make a variation of this recipe by using chicken drumsticks or breasts instead of thighs. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as they may require different cooking times.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs! They may cook faster, so check for doneness a little early.

2. What can I substitute for sweet chili sauce?
You can use a mix of honey and hot sauce as a substitute for sweet chili sauce.

3. Is it necessary to marinate the chicken before cooking?
Marination is not required, but letting the chicken sit in the seasoning for at least 30 minutes can enhance the flavor.