This air fryer teriyaki chicken is quick and easy to make, requiring just 5 minutes of preparation and under 20 minutes of cooking. It’s perfect for a hassle-free weeknight dinner that’s both delicious and healthy.
Cooking teriyaki chicken in the air fryer gives it a flavorful grilled taste without needing an actual grill. The air fryer caramelizes the sauce beautifully, coating the chicken perfectly. Once you try this recipe, it might just become a staple in your dinner routine.
Why Make This Recipe?
- Teriyaki chicken is easier and tastier in the air fryer.
- Honey replaces sugar, making the sauce healthier.
- Ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
- Leftovers reheat well for a quick and flavorful lunch.
Ingredients
- Chicken Thigh: 1 lb boneless, skinless (or skin-on if preferred)
- Sea Salt: ½ teaspoon
- Black Pepper: To taste
- Teriyaki Sauce:
- Soy Sauce: 4 tablespoons
- Mirin: 4 tablespoons
- Rice Cooking Wine (or Japanese Sake): 2 tablespoons
- Honey: 2½ tablespoons
- Garlic: 1 clove, smashed
- Optional Toppings:
- Toasted Sesame Seeds
- Teriyaki Sauce:
Lemon Wedge
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken:
- Place chicken thighs bottom side up. Make small cuts in thicker areas to help them cook evenly and prevent shrinking.
- Sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Let rest for 10 minutes or refrigerate until ready to cook.
- Make Teriyaki Sauce:
- Combine all sauce ingredients in a small saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer for 3 minutes until thickened (bubbles should form).
- Set aside half the sauce for serving and use the rest for brushing.
- Cook Chicken in Air Fryer:
- Place chicken bottom side up on the air fryer rack. Brush with teriyaki sauce.
- Cook at 350°F (180°C) for 8 minutes.
- Flip, brush with more sauce, and increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C). Cook for 6 minutes, brushing again halfway through.
- Finish and Serve:
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds, cut into strips, drizzle with sauce, and serve with rice.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor, if desired.
Tips
- Use high-quality chicken (organic or free-range) for better flavor and texture.
- Make teriyaki sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Let refrigerated, seasoned chicken sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before cooking.
- Air fryer models may vary; adjust cooking times and temperatures as needed.
Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken
This quick and easy air fryer teriyaki chicken is a healthy and flavorful dish ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknights, it’s a versatile meal that pairs well with rice, salads, or sandwiches.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 17 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Cuisine: Asian
Servings: 4
Calories: 222 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thigh
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- Black pepper, to taste
Teriyaki Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce
- 4 tablespoons mirin
- 2 tablespoons rice cooking wine (or Japanese sake)
- 2½ tablespoons honey
- 1 clove garlic, smashed
Optional Toppings:
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Lemon wedge
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Cut thicker parts of the chicken thighs for even cooking. Season with salt and pepper; let rest for 10 minutes.
- Make Sauce: Boil sauce ingredients in a saucepan for 3 minutes until thick. Save half for serving.
- Cook Chicken: Brush chicken with sauce and air fry at 350°F (180°C) for 8 minutes. Flip, brush again, and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 6 minutes.
- Serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds, drizzle with sauce, and serve with rice or your favorite sides.
Notes
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- Pre-make the sauce for convenience.
- Adjust air fryer settings based on your model and chicken thickness.
- Leftovers reheat well and make a great lunch option.
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