Looking for a fast, healthy, and absolutely delicious meal? Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken ticks all the boxes. This dish features tender, juicy chicken paired with a sticky, sweet, and savory teriyaki glaze. Even better, it’s ready in a fraction of the time compared to traditional cooking methods. Thanks to the air fryer, you’ll achieve perfectly cooked chicken with minimal oil while still enjoying all the caramelized goodness of teriyaki sauce.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prep, or just craving a flavorful bite, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Pair it with rice, noodles, or vegetables for a complete meal bursting with bold flavors.
Why Make Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken?
1. Quick Cooking Time
The air fryer makes this recipe fast, cooking chicken to perfection in less than 20 minutes.
2. Healthier Option
Enjoy the irresistible flavors of teriyaki chicken without the extra oil or calories from frying.
3. Versatility
Adjust the sauce’s sweetness, spice, or saltiness to suit your taste.
4. Family-Friendly
Both kids and adults love this dish, making it perfect for any occasion.
What You’ll Need
This recipe serves four and uses everyday ingredients for both the chicken and the sauce.
Ingredients for the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs – Perfectly juicy and flavorful, ideal for air frying.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps the chicken cook evenly and stay moist.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the chicken’s natural flavor.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a touch of mild spice.
Ingredients for the Teriyaki Sauce:
- ¼ cup soy sauce – Forms the base of the sauce.
- ¼ cup water – Adjusts the sauce’s consistency.
- 3 tablespoons honey (or brown sugar) – Sweetens the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar – Adds tanginess and balance.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil – Infuses the sauce with a nutty, rich flavor.
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Brings aromatic depth.
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger – Provides a subtle, spicy warmth.
How to Make Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken
Master this simple recipe in just a few steps, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish on your table in no time.
Preparing the Chicken: Start With Proper Seasoning
First, pat the chicken thighs dry using paper towels. This step ensures a crisp exterior during cooking. Then, rub the chicken with olive oil, salt, and black pepper to coat evenly.
Cooking the Chicken: Let the Air Fryer Work Its Magic
Set your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and allow it to preheat for 3–5 minutes. Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Cook for 10 minutes, flip the chicken over, and continue cooking for another 7–8 minutes. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Making the Teriyaki Sauce: Sweet, Savory, and Sticky
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the teriyaki sauce. Start by combining soy sauce, water, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a small saucepan. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir occasionally as the ingredients blend together.
To thicken the sauce, create a cornstarch slurry by mixing two teaspoons of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water. Slowly pour the slurry into the saucepan while stirring continuously. Allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Combining the Chicken and Sauce: A Flavorful Finish
Once the chicken has finished cooking, remove it from the air fryer and slice it into bite-sized pieces. Toss the pieces in the warm teriyaki sauce until fully coated. For extra flavor, drizzle any remaining sauce over the top when serving.
Adding the Final Touch: Garnishes and Presentation
Transfer the sauced chicken to a serving plate. Sprinkle sesame seeds and freshly chopped green onions on top for a burst of flavor and a visually appealing finish.
Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat to ensure even cooking and a crispy texture.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to verify that the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures it’s cooked through without being overdone.
- Customize the Sauce: Prefer spicier flavors? Add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the teriyaki sauce.
- Cut Uniform Pieces: For consistent cooking, slice chicken into evenly sized pieces before coating it in sauce.
- Make the Sauce Ahead: Preparing the teriyaki sauce in advance saves time on busy days.
Variations for Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken
Spicy Teriyaki Chicken
Add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the teriyaki glaze for a spicy kick.
Teriyaki Chicken Bowls
Serve the sauced chicken over steamed jasmine rice or quinoa with roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken
Stir in pineapple chunks to the sauce for a tropical flavor twist.
Gluten-Free Teriyaki Chicken
Swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos to create a gluten-free version of this dish.
Low-Carb Teriyaki Chicken
Replace honey with a sugar-free sweetener like monk fruit or stevia to lower the carb content.
What to Serve With Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken
Pair this flavorful chicken with simple sides to complete your meal:
- Steamed White or Brown Rice: A classic pairing that absorbs the teriyaki sauce beautifully.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: Broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas add color and nutrition.
- Noodles: Cooked soba or rice noodles tossed in a bit of sesame oil make a great addition.
- Cauliflower Rice: A lighter, low-carb alternative to traditional rice.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side dish to balance the sweetness of the teriyaki glaze.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Storing Leftovers
Place the chicken in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Reheating the Chicken
For best results, reheat the chicken in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes. Alternatively, use the microwave for 1–2 minutes.
Freezing for Later
Store cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per serving:
- Calories: 260
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
FAQs About Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes, chicken breasts work well! Just cut them into smaller pieces to ensure they cook evenly in the air fryer.
Q: Do I need to marinate the chicken beforehand?
A: Marinating is optional, as the teriyaki sauce provides plenty of flavor after cooking.
Q: How long does the sauce last in the fridge?
A: You can store the teriyaki sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Q: What if I don’t have an air fryer?
A: You can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes or until fully cooked.
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?
A: Absolutely. Prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then toss them together just before serving.
Conclusion: A Quick and Flavorful Dinner
Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken is the perfect combination of convenience and flavor. With tender chicken and a sticky teriyaki glaze, it’s a dish your family will love. Serve it with rice, noodles, or vegetables for a complete meal that’s ready in no time.
Ready to give it a try? Grab your air fryer and prepare this bold, delicious recipe tonight—it’s guaranteed to impress!
