Air Fryer Honey Sesame Chicken with crispy texture and savory sauce

Air Fryer Honey Sesame Chicken

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Air Fryer Honey Sesame Chicken is a quick and delicious meal that brings a taste of Asian cuisine to your kitchen. The air fryer helps to cook the chicken evenly while making it crispy without needing much oil. This dish is not only full of flavor but is also healthier than traditional fried chicken. Perfect for busy weeknights or a fun family dinner, this recipe is easy to make and sure to please everyone at the table.

How to Make Air Fryer Honey Sesame Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tsp sesame oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions, chopped

Directions:

  1. Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and cornstarch until smooth.
  3. Add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring it’s well-coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  5. Place the marinated chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through for even crispiness.
  6. Once cooked, toss the chicken with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

How to Serve Air Fryer Honey Sesame Chicken

Serve Air Fryer Honey Sesame Chicken over cooked rice or with steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also enjoy it in a wrap or on top of a salad. Garnish with extra sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a beautiful presentation.

How to Store Air Fryer Honey Sesame Chicken

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in the air fryer for a few minutes until heated through to preserve its crispiness.

Tips to Make Air Fryer Honey Sesame Chicken

  • Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for better flavor; you can marinate it longer if you have more time.
  • Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
  • Customize the marinade by adding your favorite vegetables or spices.

Variation

If you want a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes to the marinade. You can also substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option or tofu for a vegetarian version.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before marinating for the best results.

What can I serve with this dish?
You can serve it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. Steamed broccoli or stir-fried vegetables complement it well too.

Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to marinate the chicken.