why make this recipe
Teriyaki Chicken in the air fryer is a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious meal with less oil and fewer calories. The air fryer gives the chicken a crispy outer layer while keeping it juicy on the inside. This recipe also allows you to customize the flavors to your liking, whether you choose to make your teriyaki sauce from scratch or use a store-bought version.
how to make Teriyaki Chicken in Air Fryer
Ingredients :
- 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken thighs (or 450 gm. or use chicken breast cubes)
- 2 tbsp. cornstarch
- ½ cup Teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp. rice wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp. honey (or maple syrup)
- 1 tsp. garlic (crushed)
- 1 tsp. ginger (crushed)
- 1 tsp. pepper (optional)
- 1 tsp. sesame oil
- 1 tsp. sesame seeds
Directions :
- You can prepare teriyaki sauce by mixing soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, ginger, garlic, and pepper. Check the recipe in the notes for details. Alternatively, you can use store-bought Teriyaki sauce. I have tried both methods and they yield tasty results.
- Set aside half the sauce. Marinate the boneless skinless chicken cubes in the remaining marinade (about 2 tbsp.) for 30 minutes.
- After marinating, add 2 tbsp. of cornstarch to the chicken thighs and mix well. The cornstarch will help create a lovely coating on the chicken.
- Preheat the air fryer at 390°F (200°C) for 5 minutes. Brush the air fryer basket with oil.
- Arrange the marinated chicken cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 390°F (200°C) for 7 minutes until one side is slightly browned.
- Take the reserved teriyaki sauce and brush it all over the chicken cubes. Flip the cubes and brush sauce on this side as well.
- Close the air fryer basket and air fry at 390°F (200°C) for another 7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. The chicken should be glossy from the teriyaki glaze and have a nice coating. Check the doneness with a meat thermometer; it should read above 165°F.
- If desired, you can brush with more teriyaki sauce or serve some on the side for dipping.
- Remove the delicious air fryer teriyaki chicken from the fryer and garnish with toasted sesame seeds. Enjoy!
how to serve Teriyaki Chicken in Air Fryer
Serve the teriyaki chicken with steamed rice or a fresh salad. You can also add some stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. For a fun twist, serve it in wraps or over noodles.
how to store Teriyaki Chicken in Air Fryer
To store leftovers, let the teriyaki chicken cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will last for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave before serving again.
tips to make Teriyaki Chicken in Air Fryer
- Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for better flavor.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed.
- For extra crunch, you can increase the cooking time by a minute or two, keeping an eye on the chicken to avoid drying it out.
variation
If you like, you can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to the air fryer along with the chicken. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure everything cooks evenly.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast can be used instead of thighs. Just adjust the cooking time as breasts may cook faster.
2. Can I skip cornstarch?
While cornstarch helps create a crispy coating, you can skip it if you prefer a lighter version.
3. How do I know if the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should be above 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
Teriyaki Chicken in Air Fryer
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs (or use chicken breast cubes)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- ½ cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp rice wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
- 1 tsp garlic (crushed)
- 1 tsp ginger (crushed)
- 1 tsp pepper (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation
- Prepare teriyaki sauce by mixing soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, ginger, garlic, and pepper. Optionally, use store-bought teriyaki sauce.
- Set aside half the sauce and marinate the chicken in the remaining sauce for 30 minutes.
- After marinating, add cornstarch to the chicken and mix well.
- Preheat the air fryer at 390°F (200°C) for 5 minutes, brushing the basket with oil.
Cooking
- Arrange the marinated chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket and air fry for 7 minutes.
- Brush reserved teriyaki sauce on one side of the chicken, flip, and brush the other side.
- Close the air fryer and cook for another 7 minutes until cooked through (internal temperature above 165°F).
- Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and serve.