Why Make This Recipe
Honey Garlic Air Fryer Chicken is a fantastic dish that brings sweetness and savory flavors together in a healthy way. Using an air fryer means you can enjoy crispy and juicy chicken without deep-frying, making it a great choice for those looking for a lighter meal. It’s simple to prepare and can be marinated beforehand, saving you time on busy days. Perfect for family dinners or a quick lunch, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
How to Make Honey Garlic Air Fryer Chicken
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds chicken thighs boneless, skinless
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup water
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon corn starch
Directions:
- In a large bowl, add chicken thighs, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Marinate for 10 minutes up to overnight.
- Preheat air fryer to 425°F for a few minutes. Add chicken thighs in a single layer, do not overcrowd, and cook in batches as needed. Air fry for 11 to 14 minutes until browned and cooked through. The internal temperature should be 165°F or higher.
- While the chicken is cooking, combine soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, water, and cornstarch in a cup or bowl and set it aside.
- In a medium shallow pan on medium heat, add butter and let it melt. Then, add the sauce and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until it thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Once the chicken is done, pour the sauce over the chicken and coat it evenly. Save a little sauce for dipping later. Serve the chicken with fluffy white rice, veggies, and any other sides you like.
How to Serve Honey Garlic Air Fryer Chicken
Serve Honey Garlic Air Fryer Chicken hot, topped with the delicious sauce. A side of fluffy white rice or quinoa complements the flavors perfectly. You can also add steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans for a balanced meal. If you made extra sauce, it’s great for dipping!
How to Store Honey Garlic Air Fryer Chicken
To store Honey Garlic Air Fryer Chicken, let it cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it; just be sure to use a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the air fryer or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Honey Garlic Air Fryer Chicken
- Marinate the chicken for longer to enhance the flavor. Overnight is best.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature for safety.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey to the sauce according to your taste.
- For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the sauce.
Variation
You can easily switch up the recipe by using chicken breasts instead of thighs, or you can try adding some chopped green onions or sesame seeds as a garnish for an extra crunch. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free soy sauce.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking to ensure even cooking.
2. What can I serve with Honey Garlic Air Fryer Chicken?
It pairs well with rice, noodles, or a simple salad. Steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans make great side dishes too.
3. Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts or drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time as needed. Breasts will cook faster, while drumsticks may require a bit more time.
Honey Garlic Air Fryer Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, add chicken thighs, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Marinate for 10 minutes up to overnight.
- Add chicken thighs in a single layer, do not overcrowd, and cook in batches as needed. Air fry for 11 to 14 minutes until browned and cooked through. The internal temperature should be 165°F or higher.
- While the chicken is cooking, combine soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, water, and cornstarch in a cup or bowl and set it aside.
- In a medium shallow pan on medium heat, add butter and let it melt. Then, add the sauce and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until it thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Once the chicken is done, pour the sauce over the chicken and coat it evenly. Save a little sauce for dipping later. Serve the chicken with fluffy white rice, veggies, and any other sides you like.