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Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs Recipe


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4 from 5 reviews

  • Author: Lea
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Description

Deliciously crispy Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs cooked quickly in the air fryer and coated in a flavorful sweet chili glaze. Ready in just 25 minutes, this recipe combines the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and sticky textures for an irresistible meal.


Ingredients

Chicken

  • 8 bone-in chicken thighs (boneless optional)
  • 1 tbsp avocado oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp pepper

Sticky Glaze

  • ½ cup sweet chili sauce
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil


Instructions

  1. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking and a crispy skin.
  2. Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly with a paper towel to help the skin get crispy during cooking.
  3. Season: Rub the chicken thighs with avocado oil, and season evenly with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Initial Air Fry: Place chicken skin side down in the air fryer basket and cook at 375°F for 15 minutes.
  5. Make Sticky Glaze: In a small bowl, combine sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, and oyster sauce, stirring until well mixed.
  6. Baste Chicken: Remove the chicken briefly and baste it several times with the sticky glaze while continuing to air fry, ensuring a caramelized coating. Repeat basting at least 3 times.
  7. Continue Cooking: Air fry the chicken for an additional 10 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  8. Broil for Crispiness: For a perfectly crispy and caramelized finish, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes while watching carefully to prevent burning.
  9. Rest: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
  10. Serve: Serve the sticky sweet chili chicken thighs over jasmine rice or with your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Use bone-in chicken thighs for juicier results; boneless can be substituted but may cook faster.
  • Patting the chicken dry is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
  • Basting multiple times helps build a rich, sticky glaze.
  • Monitor broiling closely to avoid burning the glaze.
  • Adjust cooking times based on the size of the chicken thighs and your air fryer model.
  • Serve with steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried vegetables to balance the meal.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: Asian