Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer

Looking for a meal that combines convenience with exceptional flavor? Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs cooked in the air fryer offer a delectable mix of sweet, spicy, and savory notes. This recipe delivers crispy, juicy chicken thighs coated in a rich, sticky chili sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or a special treat, these air-fried chicken thighs are as easy to make as they are to enjoy.

Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken Thighs:

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure they get crispy.
Rub the chicken thighs with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Make the Sticky Sweet Chili Sauce:

In a bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and minced ginger until well combined.
Marinate the Chicken:

Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the sweet chili mixture over them.

Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.

Air Fry the Chicken Thighs:

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, allowing any excess sauce to drip off.

Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Serve:

Transfer the cooked chicken thighs to a serving platter.
Drizzle with any remaining marinade (boiled for safety) or extra sweet chili sauce if desired.

Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Serve with rice, noodles, or a side of your choice.

Tips for Success:
Marinating Time: For best results, allow the chicken to marinate for a few hours. This will enhance the flavor and tenderness.

Avoid Overcrowding: Make sure to arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can prevent the chicken from crisping up properly.

Check for Doneness: Always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer offer a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors with a crispy texture that’s hard to resist. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy the convenience of air frying with the mouthwatering taste of sticky chili chicken!