Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer
Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer are the perfect dish for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night at home. This recipe combines the satisfying crunch of air-fried chicken with a rich, tangy glaze that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why Make This Recipe
Creating Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in your air fryer not only yields a delicious result but also keeps the cooking process quick and hassle-free. Air frying this dish allows you to enjoy crispy skin without the excess fat and calories from traditional frying methods. With only a handful of ingredients, it’s an easy recipe that even novice cooks can master. Plus, the burst of flavor from the sweet chili sauce combined with soy, oyster, and sesame notes will elevate your meal to a whole new level.
How to Make Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs
Making Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in the air fryer is a straightforward process. Below are the ingredients you’ll need and the step-by-step directions to get perfectly cooked, flavorful chicken thighs.
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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 soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
Directions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel to ensure a crispy chicken skin.
- Season the chicken thighs with avocado oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Air fry the chicken skin side down at 375 degrees for 15 minutes.
- Sticky Glaze: In a separate small bowl, mix together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, and oyster sauce.
- 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.
- Add an extra 10 minutes of cooking time to the chicken or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- 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.
- Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Serve your Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs over a bed of jasmine rice or with your favorite vegetable side dishes.
Pro Tips for Success Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs
- Drying the Chicken: Be sure to pat your chicken thighs completely dry before seasoning. This will help achieve that crispy texture we all love.
- Basting: Don’t skip the basting step! The more you baste your chicken with the sticky glaze during cooking, the more flavor it will absorb, leading to a deliciously caramelized finish.
- Cook in Batches: If you have a small air fryer, you might need to cook the chicken in batches. Don’t overcrowd the basket; this ensures even cooking and crispiness.
- Temperature Check: Always check the internal temperature of chicken to ensure it’s cooked through. An accurate meat thermometer will give you confidence in your cooking.
- Let it Rest: Allow your chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking to lock in the juices and enhance its flavor.
Flavor Variations Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili peppers to the glaze for an extra spicy version.
- Citrus Twist: Incorporate some freshly squeezed lime or lemon juice into the marinade for a fresh, zesty flavor.
- Hoisin Delight: Swap out the oyster sauce for hoisin sauce to give a uniquely sweet and savory profile to your chicken.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions to the glaze for added freshness and a burst of color.
- Garlic Lovers: Increase the garlic powder to 2 teaspoons if you want a more pronounced garlic flavor.
Serving Suggestions Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs
Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs pair beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some great serving suggestions:
- Jasmine Rice: The subtle flavor and fluffy texture of jasmine rice complement the rich sauce perfectly.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: Consider serving with a mix of stir-fried bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas tossed in sesame oil for a colorful, healthy addition.
- Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the chicken while providing a refreshing contrast.
- Noodles: Serve the chicken over rice noodles or udon, drizzled with the same sweet chili sauce for a complete meal.
- Garlic Bread: Enjoy with slices of garlic bread for a comforting twist on dinner.
Storage and Freezing Instructions Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: If you want to freeze the chicken, cool it completely first, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken in the air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also use a microwave, but this may result in softer skin.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|————-|————–|
| Calories | 290 |
| Protein | 22g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Fat | 19g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sodium | 840mg |
FAQ About Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?
Yes, you can certainly use boneless chicken thighs. Keep in mind that boneless thighs will cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly. Start checking for doneness around the 12-minute mark.
Can I make this recipe without the air fryer?
Absolutely! If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the chicken thighs in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 35-40 minutes, basting occasionally in the sticky glaze. Just ensure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
If you wish to avoid using oyster sauce, you can substitute it with mushroom sauce for a similar umami flavor, or you can simply increase the amount of soy sauce used in the recipe.
How spicy is the sweet chili sauce?
The sweetness of the sweet chili sauce typically balances out its heat, making it mild to moderately spicy. However, different brands vary, so if you prefer less heat, look for milder varieties, or feel free to make your own at home using fewer spicy ingredients.
Is sesame oil necessary?
While sesame oil adds a distinct flavor and aroma, you can substitute it with grapeseed oil or omit it entirely if you’re looking for a lighter option. However, using sesame oil will enhance the Asian flavor profile of the dish.
Final Thoughts
Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer are not only scrumptious but also an easy and healthy way to enjoy a flavor-packed meal. This recipe is designed for busy nights when you want something that feels indulgent without all the fuss. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to create a delicious dish that your family and friends will love. Happy cooking!
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Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer are crispy, flavorful, and coated in a rich, tangy glaze perfect for any occasion.
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 soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel.
- Season the chicken thighs with avocado oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Air fry the chicken skin side down at 375 degrees for 15 minutes.
- Mix sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, and oyster sauce in a bowl.
- Baste the chicken with the sticky sauce while roasting.
- Add an extra 10 minutes of cooking time until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- For a crispy finish, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Ensure chicken is patted completely dry for maximum crispiness. Baste frequently for enhanced flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 840mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 114mg
