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Crispy Honey Garlic Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

crispy honey garlic air fryer chicken thighs - featured image

Quick and easy air fryer chicken thighs with perfectly crispy skin and a sticky honey garlic glaze. Ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds / 700g)
  • 3 tablespoons honey (raw or wildflower recommended)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper, freshly cracked
  • 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp up. Season both sides with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. (About 5 minutes)
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, and apple cider vinegar. Toss the chicken thighs in this mixture to coat evenly. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for better flavor.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
  4. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook for 12 minutes.
  5. Flip the chicken thighs and cook for another 10-12 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden.
  6. While the chicken cooks, combine honey and red pepper flakes (if using) in a small bowl to make the glaze.
  7. Brush the honey garlic glaze generously over each piece of chicken. Return to the air fryer for an additional 2-3 minutes at 400°F (200°C) to caramelize the glaze.
  8. Remove the chicken and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep the juices locked in and the skin crispy.

Notes

Pat chicken skin dry before cooking to ensure crispiness. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow even air circulation. Flip chicken halfway through cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Brush honey garlic glaze on during the last 2-3 minutes to avoid burning. Cook in batches if air fryer basket is small. Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer at 350°F for 5 minutes to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

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