Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken
Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken is a deliciously simple way to get tender, juicy chicken coated in a sweet and tangy teriyaki glaze. The air fryer helps the chicken develop a…
Tip: save now, cook later.Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken is a deliciously simple way to get tender, juicy chicken coated in a sweet and tangy teriyaki glaze. The air fryer helps the chicken develop a nice, slightly crispy outside while keeping the inside perfectly moist. It’s a great mix of flavors with that classic soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger combo that everyone loves.
I really enjoy making this when I want a quick, tasty dinner without turning on the stove for too long. The air fryer cuts down cooking time and makes clean up a breeze, which I always appreciate after a busy day. Plus, I love brushing on a little extra teriyaki sauce right at the end so it caramelizes just a bit—it adds such a nice touch.
My favorite way to serve this is over steamed rice with a side of stir-fried veggies or a fresh green salad. It’s one of those easy meals that feels a little special, and I find everyone asking for seconds. Honestly, it’s become a go-to recipe for me whenever I crave something tasty but fuss-free.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken thighs: I love using boneless, skinless thighs for their juicy texture and flavor. If you prefer leaner meat, chicken breasts work too, but they can dry out faster.
Soy sauce: Low sodium is best to control saltiness. If you need gluten-free, tamari is a perfect substitute.
Honey & brown sugar: Both bring sweetness and balance the soy. You can swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar for a different taste.
Rice vinegar: It adds acidity and brightens the sauce. If you don’t have rice vinegar, apple cider vinegar is a good alternative, but use a little less to avoid overpowering.
Garlic & ginger: Fresh is ideal for aroma and zing. Ground versions work in a pinch but use less to prevent harshness.
How Do I Get the Teriyaki Glaze Just Right?
Making a perfect teriyaki glaze is key to this dish. You want it thick enough to coat the chicken without being overly sticky.
- Simmer the soy, honey, vinegar, sugar, garlic, and ginger gently—don’t rush this part. It lets the flavors meld and the sauce reduce slightly.
- Mix cornstarch with cold water until smooth, then whisk it slowly into the hot sauce to avoid lumps.
- Stir continuously as it thickens; this usually takes 2-3 minutes.
- Once thickened, remove from heat and cool before marinating the chicken—this prevents cooking the chicken too early.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – the star here! It cooks chicken quickly and crisps the outside without extra oil.
- Small saucepan – perfect for simmering and thickening the teriyaki sauce.
- Mixing bowl or zip-top bag – easy for marinating the chicken evenly in the sauce.
- Basting brush – helps you coat the chicken with extra glaze during cooking for more flavor.
- Tongs – handy for turning chicken pieces safely in the air fryer without tearing the meat.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken thighs for salmon fillets or firm tofu to make a pescatarian or vegetarian version—both soak up the teriyaki beautifully.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce if you like a spicy kick.
- Mix in steamed broccoli or snap peas as a fresh, crunchy side right in the air fryer basket after cooking the chicken.
- Top with chopped peanuts or cashews for a nutty crunch that pairs well with the sweet glaze.
Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- Lemon wedges (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation and cooking together take about 30 minutes, including marinating time (minimum 15 minutes). The air fryer cooks the chicken quickly in just 15-17 minutes, making this a fast and tasty meal option.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade and Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it starts to simmer. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
2. Make the Teriyaki Glaze
Mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl until smooth. Slowly whisk this slurry into the simmering sauce. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens into a glaze. Remove from heat and allow it to cool.
3. Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken chunks into a large bowl or zip-top bag. Pour half of the cooled teriyaki glaze over the chicken and toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 1 hour for more flavor.
4. Preheat and Prepare the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 5 minutes. Lightly brush or spray the air fryer basket with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
5. Cook the Chicken
Arrange the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding. Air fry the chicken for 10 minutes.
6. Flip and Glaze the Chicken
Carefully flip the chicken pieces using tongs. Brush the chicken with the remaining teriyaki glaze. Air fry for an additional 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and nicely caramelized around the edges.
7. Serve and Garnish
Transfer the chicken to a serving plate. Spoon any leftover glaze over the top. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Add lemon wedges on the side if you like a bright citrus touch.
8. Optional Serving Suggestion
Serve your Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken over steamed white rice with a side of steamed or stir-fried vegetables to complete the meal.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs, but be sure to thaw them completely in the fridge overnight before marinating and cooking. This helps ensure even cooking and better flavor absorption.
Can I Substitute Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well but tend to cook faster and can dry out, so reduce the air frying time slightly and keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or microwave to keep the texture nice and juicy.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! Marinate the chicken ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours for deeper flavor. You can also prepare the teriyaki sauce in advance and simply heat and use when ready to cook.
