A mouthwatering aroma fills the kitchen as the sticky sweet chili chicken thighs crisp up in the air fryer. This delectable recipe takes just around 30 minutes from start to finish and guarantees juicy chicken with a caramelized glaze that draws everyone to the table. The combination of sweet, savory, and umami flavors ensures each bite is a delightful experience.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend gathering with friends and family. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be made ahead of time and reheated easily, making mealtime both convenient and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy chicken skin with a tantalizing sticky glaze.
- Quick cooking time of under 30 minutes.
- Perfectly balanced flavors with a touch of sweetness.
- Ideal for a versatile meal—serve with rice or veggies.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to create the sticky goodness.
For the Chicken
- 8 bone-in chicken thighs, skin-on
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
For the Glaze
- ½ cup sweet chili sauce
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
Oyster sauce can be skip if unavailable.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Chicken thighs can be replaced with chicken drumsticks.
- Low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option.
- Honey or maple syrup can substitute sweet chili sauce.
- Can use olive oil instead of avocado oil.
How to Make It
Create these sticky sweet chili chicken thighs in just a few simple steps.
Preheat
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Pat Dry
Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel to ensure a crispy chicken skin.
Season
Season the chicken thighs with avocado oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Air Fry
Air fry the chicken skin side down at 375°F for 15 minutes.
Mix Glaze
In a separate small bowl, mix together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, and oyster sauce for the sticky glaze.
Baste
Baste the chicken a few times with the sticky sauce while roasting or air frying. You want the chicken to be caramelized. I basted the chicken at least 3 times to get a nice coat of the glaze.
Cook Further
Add 10 more minutes of cooking time to the chicken or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Broil
For an extra crispy finish, broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Rest
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
Serve
Serve your sticky sweet chili chicken thighs over a bed of jasmine rice or with your favorite vegetable side dishes.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, chicken may become dry when thawed.
Reheat: Microwave for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure the chicken is dry before seasoning for a crispier finish.
- Use high-quality sweet chili sauce for the best flavor.
- Monitor the airflow of your air fryer to achieve even cooking.
- Baste frequently for a rich, caramelized coating.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve alongside fragrant jasmine rice to soak up the glaze.
- Enjoy with steamed green vegetables for a balanced meal.
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