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Teriyaki Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe

Life is wild with three teens and dinner is always a circus. These air fryer chicken thighs save me. They are crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and taste like fried chicken but no giant mess. You can use air fry chicken legs bone in or drumlets or even thighs. It is one of the best airfryer meals we make on repeat.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 4 to 6 chicken thighs skinless
  • 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce store-bought or homemade
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce for extra depth
  • 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar optional if you like it sweeter
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp ground ginger
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil or any neutral oil
  • Sesame seeds & chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions
 

Step 1: Marinate Like a Boss

  • In a bowl or zip-top bag, mix the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, ginger, and sesame oil. Toss the chicken thighs in and let them marinate for at least 20 minutes (or overnight if you actually remembered to plan ahead).

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

  • Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). It helps crisp up the outside while keeping the inside juicy.

Step 3: Air Fry Time

  • Lay the chicken thighs in a single layer. Cook for 8 minutes, flip, then cook another 7-8 minutes. Use a meat thermometer if you have one – the internal temp should hit 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Glaze It Up

  • Once cooked, brush or drizzle extra teriyaki sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle sesame seeds and green onions for the “I am basically a chef” finish.

Notes

Tips

  • Do not crowd the basket. Air needs space to move so the chicken gets crispy.
  • Pat the skin dry before seasoning. Helps with crunch.
  • Use a thermometer if you have one. Chicken safe at 165 degree inside.
  • Reheat leftovers in air fryer for 3 to 4 minutes to make them crispy again.

Variations

  • Swap spices for taco seasoning or lemon pepper. Kids love different flavors each week.
  • Make easy air fryer fried chicken thighs by coating with panko crumbs before cooking.
  • Try air fryer chicken drumlets air fryer style for snack nights.
  • Add honey and soy sauce for a sweet sticky glaze after cooking.