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Teriyaki chicken is a beloved dish that boasts flavors of sweet, savory, and umami, making it a staple in various cuisines, particularly in Japanese cooking. Its popularity has transcended borders, becoming a favored meal in households around the world. The combination of tender, juicy chicken coated in a glossy teriyaki sauce makes it an irresistible option for family dinners, meal prep, and even special occasions. However, traditional methods of preparing teriyaki chicken can be time-consuming and often involve frying, which can add excess calories and fat.

Best Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken

Discover the mouthwatering flavors of savory air fryer teriyaki chicken with this quick and easy recipe. Perfectly marinated chicken thighs are cooked to tender perfection using minimal oil in the air fryer, making it a healthier option for family dinners or meal prep. With its sweet, savory glaze and juicy texture, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s simple to customize for various dietary needs, making it a versatile favorite for any occasion.
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Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)

1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce

1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

2 tablespoons sesame oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated or minced

1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for a thicker sauce)

2 green onions, finely chopped (for garnish)

Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prep the Chicken: Begin by trimming away any excess fat from the chicken thighs. Cut the meat into bite-sized chunks to ensure even cooking throughout.

    Make the Marinade: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined. If you desire a richer, thicker sauce, incorporate the cornstarch and mix thoroughly until fully dissolved.

      Marinate the Chicken: Place the chopped chicken pieces into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the prepared teriyaki marinade over the chicken, ensuring that every piece is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for a more intense flavor infusion).

        Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C), allowing it to heat for approximately 5 minutes.

          Cook the Chicken: After marinating, remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess sauce drip off. Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the chicken in batches. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to promote even browning until the chicken is fully cooked and has achieved a beautiful golden exterior.

            Prepare Extra Sauce (Optional): If you wish for additional sauce, take the leftover marinade (making sure it hasn’t been in contact with raw chicken) and transfer it to a small saucepan. Heat it over medium heat until it reaches a boil, then let it simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

              Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, carefully transfer it to a serving plate. If desired, drizzle with the prepared thickened teriyaki sauce and garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for extra flavor and crunch.

                Enjoy: Serve your savory teriyaki chicken alongside steamed rice and vibrant vegetables, or place it atop a fresh salad for a light and refreshing meal!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 min | 50 min | Serves 4