Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken
Why Make This Recipe
Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken is a quick and tasty meal that everyone will love. The air fryer makes the chicken crispy on the outside while keeping it juicy on the inside. Plus, it’s a healthier option compared to traditional frying methods. With just a few ingredients, you can have a flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
How to Make Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken
Ingredients:
- 1-1.25 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or chicken breast
- 2/3 cup teriyaki sauce
- Chopped scallions – optional for garnish
- Sesame seeds – optional for garnish
Directions:
- Pat the chicken dry with a clean paper towel. Cut the chicken into 1-1.5 inch cubes and add it to a medium bowl.
- Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and toss to coat it all. Cover the chicken and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 1 hour. Note: if marinating for longer than 30 minutes, then place the chicken into the refrigerator.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and spray the air fryer basket with non-aerosol cooking spray. Add the chicken to the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook it for 12-15 minutes, until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.
- Once the chicken is done cooking, remove it from the air fryer and serve immediately garnished with scallions and sesame seeds, if desired.
How to Serve Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken
Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken is great served over rice or noodles. You can also enjoy it in a wrap or salad. Adding some steamed vegetables on the side makes it a complete meal. For extra flavor, drizzle some more teriyaki sauce on top before serving.
How to Store Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken
If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool completely. Then, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it back in the air fryer or microwave until warm. You may want to add a little bit of extra sauce to keep it moist.
Tips to Make Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken
- Make sure to cut the chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary for the best results.
- Adjust the marinade time based on your taste preference; longer marinating can boost the flavor even more.
Variation
You can easily switch up this recipe by using different types of protein, like shrimp or tofu. Additionally, try adding different veggies, such as bell peppers or broccoli, into the air fryer for a mixed dish.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken breast. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as chicken breast may cook faster than thighs.
Do I need to marinate the chicken for the full hour?
No, you can marinate it for at least 30 minutes and still get good flavor. If you’re short on time, a quick marinade will still work.
Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.