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Crispy Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

crispy air fryer honey garlic chicken thighs - featured image

A quick and easy air fryer recipe for crispy, juicy chicken thighs glazed with a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or dinner parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds / 700 grams)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons honey (use good-quality, runny honey like raw or wildflower)
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes if using. Set aside.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (205°C) and let it run empty for 5 minutes.
  4. Brush the chicken skin lightly with olive oil. Place the thighs skin-side down in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook for 10 minutes.
  5. Flip the chicken thighs skin-side up using tongs. Brush the tops generously with the honey garlic glaze. Cook for an additional 10 minutes at the same temperature.
  6. Brush the chicken once more with the glaze and cook for 3-5 more minutes. Watch the glaze to avoid burning; chicken skin should be golden brown and crispy, and internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  7. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to lock in juices. Spoon any extra glaze from the air fryer basket over the chicken before serving.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry before seasoning is key for crispy skin. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow hot air circulation. Brush the glaze halfway and near the end of cooking to prevent burning. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. To reheat leftovers, use the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken, honey garlic chicken, crispy chicken thighs, easy dinner, quick chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, healthy chicken