A savory aroma wafts through the air as the Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs sizzle in the air fryer, creating perfectly caramelized skin with each stir of the sticky glaze. This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish and is beloved for its irresistible combination of crunchy exterior and flavorful, moist chicken.
Ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish is perfect for anyone who craves bold flavors with minimal effort. You can prepare the marinade up to a day in advance for even greater convenience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The air fryer yields crispy skin without excess oil.
- A simple sticky glaze that elevates flavor effortlessly.
- Quick cooking time makes it an ideal weeknight meal.
- Perfectly juicy chicken thighs with a caramelized finish.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious dish.
For the Chicken
- 8 bone-in chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
For the Sticky Glaze
- ½ cup sweet chili sauce
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
Use low-sodium soy sauce if preferred.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Avocado oil: Olive oil
- Bone-in chicken thighs: Boneless thighs
- Sweet chili sauce: Honey or maple syrup
- Oyster sauce: Hoisin sauce
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps for a perfect meal.
Preheat the air fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Dry the chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel to ensure a crispy chicken skin.
Season the chicken
Season the chicken thighs with avocado oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Air fry the chicken
Air fry the chicken skin side down at 375 degrees for 15 minutes.
Prepare the sticky glaze
In a separate small bowl, mix together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, and oyster sauce.
Baste the chicken
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 until done
Add an additional 10 minutes of cooking time to the chicken or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Broil for crispiness
For an extra crispy finish, broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning and ensure that the chicken skin becomes beautifully caramelized.
Rest the chicken
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 4 days.
Freezer: No, chicken may become dry.
Reheat: Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Always preheat the air fryer for best texture.
- Adjust the amount of chili sauce based on your spice preference.
- Allow the chicken to rest for juiciness.
- Ensure the chicken thighs are fully dried before seasoning for a crispy finish.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with jasmine rice for a hearty meal.
- Serve alongside steamed broccoli for a nutritious balance.
- Great for casual dinners or meal prep.
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