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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Easy Honey Garlic Glaze Recipe

crispy air fryer chicken thighs - featured image

Crispy skin, juicy meat chicken thighs cooked in an air fryer with a sticky, sweet, and savory honey garlic glaze. A quick and easy recipe perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs / 700 g)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it run empty for 5 minutes.
  3. Lightly brush or spray the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking. Place chicken thighs skin-side down in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch. Air fry for 12 minutes.
  4. Using tongs, carefully turn the thighs skin-side up. Continue cooking for another 10-12 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Internal temperature should read 165°F (74°C).
  5. While the chicken cooks, combine minced garlic, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir gently for 3-4 minutes until warm and slightly thickened but not boiling.
  6. Remove the chicken from the air fryer and transfer to a plate. Brush the honey garlic glaze generously over each piece.
  7. If desired, pop the glazed chicken back in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 2-3 minutes to caramelize the glaze. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  8. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices and let the glaze set.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before seasoning for crispier skin. Preheat air fryer for best results. Do not overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if needed. Brush glaze after cooking to prevent burning. Use tamari for gluten-free option. Reheat leftovers in air fryer to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken thighs, honey garlic chicken, crispy chicken thighs, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, honey garlic glaze