Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer Recipe

If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that delivers on both flavor and ease, you absolutely have to try these Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer. This dish strikes the perfect balance of juicy, golden-skinned chicken and a glossy, caramelized coating that’s a little sweet, a little spicy, and totally irresistible. The air fryer works its magic to crisp up every bite, while the homemade sticky glaze soaks in, saturating each thigh with savory, bold flavors. Whether you’re a meal-prep aficionado or want to impress at your next family dinner, this recipe will have everyone reaching for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer is delightfully simple but purposeful. Every addition, from aromatic garlic powder to glossy sweet chili sauce, brings its own punch to the table, ensuring vibrant color, crisp skin, and irresistible taste in every bite.

• Chicken Thighs (8 bone-in): Go for bone-in and skin-on chicken thighs for maximum juiciness and the best crispy texture.
• Avocado Oil (1 tbsp): Helps the seasoning coat the chicken evenly and encourages perfect browning in the air fryer.
• Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Adds savory depth and fragrance that infuses into every bite.
• Salt (½ tsp): Essential for building flavor right from the start; don’t skip it!
• Pepper (½ tsp): Brings a gentle kick and balances the sweetness of the glaze.
• Sweet Chili Sauce (½ cup): The heart of your sticky glaze, lending the perfect sweet heat.
• Soy Sauce (3 tbsp): Adds umami richness and balances the sauce’s sweetness.
• Oyster Sauce (1 tbsp): Deepens the savory profile for true takeout-worthy results.
• Sesame Oil (1 tbsp): A finishing note of nuttiness and aroma that makes the glaze shine.

How to Make Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Kick things off by preheating your air fryer (or oven) to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel; this key move ensures that glorious crispy skin you crave. Dry skin means better browning and maximum crunch!

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Whisk together the avocado oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Then, rub this flavorful blend all over the chicken thighs. Take a moment to make sure every nook and cranny is coated—this is the foundation for incredible flavor in your Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer.

Step 3: Air Fry or Roast

Place the seasoned thighs skin side down in the air fryer basket. Set your air fryer for 15 minutes at 375°F, letting that hot air work its magic. If you’re using the oven, line a baking tray with parchment paper, roast at 400°F skin side down for 20 minutes, then flip for another 10 minutes until the skin is golden and crisp.

Step 4: Prepare the Sticky Sweet Chili Sauce

While the chicken cooks, grab a large bowl and whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, and oyster sauce. The scent alone is a promise of the sticky, savory finish to come—don’t be afraid to taste and adjust if you want even more heat or sweetness!

Step 5: Baste with Sticky Glaze

It’s time for the real fun. Generously baste the chicken with your sticky glaze, making sure every piece gets a glossy, flavorful coat. Repeat this step two or three times throughout cooking to build up layers of flavor. Add another 10 minutes of air frying (or roasting), until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce is glossy and caramelized.

Step 6: Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional, but highly recommended)

For crispy, lacquered skin that crackles with flavor, pop your chicken under the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Watch it closely! This step is optional, but it puts the finishing touch on your Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer, turning them into a true showstopper.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Once the thighs are sticky and gloriously golden, let them rest for a few minutes to lock in those juices. Serve over a bed of jasmine rice, your favorite stir-fried veggies, or whatever you love most.

How to Serve Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes go a long way here. Scattering a handful of sliced green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds on top adds a pop of color and crunch, while a few sprigs of cilantro bring herbaceous brightness to your plate.

Side Dishes

Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer make a fantastic main dish alongside fluffy jasmine or coconut rice, but they’re equally perfect with quick stir-fried veggies like snap peas and bell peppers. For a fresh pairing, try a simple cucumber salad or crunchy Asian slaw.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling fun, shred the chicken and stuff it into lettuce wraps for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or slice it over a big grain bowl with pickled veggies for a lunch that will make you the envy of your office. You can even use leftovers as the protein in a hearty noodle bowl!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days, and the flavors only get better as they mingle in the fridge.

Freezing

If you want to freeze extra chicken, place cooled thighs in a freezer-safe bag or container. I recommend freezing without extra sauce for best texture; simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To bring your chicken back to crispy glory, pop it back in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until heated through. If you’re in a pinch, the microwave will do, but the air fryer wins for restoring that sticky, caramelized finish.

FAQs

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless thighs work well, but you’ll get less crispy skin. Reduce air frying time slightly and keep a close eye to avoid drying out the meat.

Is this recipe spicy?

The sweet chili sauce gives a gentle kick but isn’t overly hot. If you love extra spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to your glaze.

Can I double the sticky glaze?

Definitely—if you love extra sauce for drizzling over rice or dipping, feel free to double the glaze ingredients. Just make sure to baste generously for a thick, sticky coating.

Should I marinate the chicken first?

It’s not essential, but you can marinate the chicken in the seasoning blend for up to 8 hours for even deeper flavor. Even without marinating, the glaze adds plenty of punch.

What’s the best way to check if my chicken is done?

The safest way is with an instant-read thermometer; aim for 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Look for crispy skin and sticky, bubbling glaze as visual cues.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try these Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer! It’s a fuss-free meal that feels special enough for guests yet is easy enough to throw together on a busy weeknight. Let the air fryer do the heavy lifting, and savor that perfect blend of sweet, savory, and spicy in every bite. Enjoy—and let me know how it turns out!

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