Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer

Name: Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 8 bone-in chicken thighs; 1 tbsp avocado oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp pepper; ½ cup sweet chili sauce; 3 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp sesame oil

Published: February 15, 2026

by Aileen Reed

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With only 5 minutes of prep, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet chili sauce and soy sauce creates a rich, mouthwatering glaze that everyone will love.
Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you choose to air fry or bake, this recipe delivers tasty results every time.
Perfectly Crispy Skin: Air frying ensures that the chicken skin becomes wonderfully crispy while keeping the meat juicy.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this flavorful dish, making it ideal for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To get started with these Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Air fryer
Mixing bowl
Measuring spoons
Basting brush
Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

Air fryer: Provides a healthier way to achieve crispy chicken without deep frying.
Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining sauces and seasonings before applying them to the chicken.
Meat thermometer: Ensures that your chicken is cooked to the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), preventing any food safety issues.

Ingredients

To make these Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer, gather the following ingredients:

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

How to Make Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the chicken thighs.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Thighs

Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
Season the chicken thighs with avocado oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is evenly coated.

Step 3: Start Air Frying

Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin side down in the air fryer basket.
Cook at 375°F for 15 minutes to start sealing in those delicious flavors.

Step 4: Make the Sticky Glaze

In a separate small bowl:
* Combine the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, and oyster sauce. Mix well until fully integrated.

Step 5: Baste While Cooking

During the last part of cooking:
* Baste the chicken with your sticky glaze several times. This helps create a nice caramelized layer on top.

Step 6: Finish Cooking the Chicken

After basting:
* Continue cooking for an additional 10 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 7: Crisp Up the Skin

For an extra crispy finish:
* Broil your chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Once done:
* Remove from heat and let your chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serve these Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs over jasmine rice or alongside your favorite vegetables for an irresistible meal!

How to Serve Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer

Serving your Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs can elevate the meal experience. Here are some delicious ideas to complement this flavorful dish.

Over Jasmine Rice

A classic pairing that soaks up the sweet and spicy sauce, jasmine rice provides a fragrant base for the chicken.

With Steamed Broccoli

This vibrant green vegetable adds color and nutrition to your plate, balancing the richness of the chicken.

On a Bed of Mixed Greens

Create a fresh salad with mixed greens like spinach or arugula. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

As a Sandwich

Shred leftover chicken and serve it in a soft bun with crunchy slaw for a delightful twist on traditional sandwiches.

With Cilantro Lime Quinoa

The zesty flavors of cilantro and lime in quinoa will enhance the sticky sweetness of the chicken, making for a well-rounded meal.

How to Perfect Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer

Achieving perfection with Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs is simple with these helpful tips.

Dry the Chicken: Patting the thighs dry before seasoning helps achieve crispy skin.
Use High-Quality Sauce: Opt for a high-quality sweet chili sauce to enhance flavor and thickness of the glaze.
Baste Frequently: Basting during cooking ensures every bite is coated with delicious sauce for maximum flavor.
Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety and tenderness.
Let It Rest: Allowing the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving allows juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.

Best Side Dishes for Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer

Pairing side dishes with Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic pair wonderfully with the sweet glaze.
Roasted Vegetables: A colorful mix of roasted bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini adds texture and flavor.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with vinegar dressing complements the richness of the chicken.
Fried Rice: Add leftover rice stir-fried with vegetables for an easy, satisfying side that echoes Asian flavors.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that balances out the sticky chicken.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and crunch, making them an ideal match for your dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your results significantly. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Skipping the drying step – Not patting the chicken thighs dry can lead to soggy skin. Always use a paper towel to ensure crispiness.
Overcrowding the air fryer – Placing too many chicken thighs at once can prevent even cooking. Make sure there’s space for air to circulate around each piece.
Neglecting temperature checks – Failing to check the internal temperature can result in undercooked chicken. Always aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Ignoring sauce application – Not basting your chicken with the sticky glaze can lead to less flavor and caramelization. Remember to baste several times during cooking.
Not letting it rest – Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can release juices. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to retain moisture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container.
They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer

Place cooled chicken thighs in a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer

Oven – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave – Use medium power, heating in short intervals until hot. This may not keep the skin crispy.
Stovetop – Heat in a skillet on medium-low heat, covering with a lid, and turn occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to serve Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer?

Serving these thighs over jasmine rice enhances their flavor and complements their sticky sauce beautifully.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?

Yes, you can use boneless thighs; however, adjust cooking time as they typically cook faster than bone-in pieces.

How do I make Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.

Can I add vegetables while air frying?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli alongside the chicken will create a nice one-pan meal.

How spicy are these Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs?

The spice level depends on the sweet chili sauce used; most store-bought versions are mildly spicy but feel free to adjust based on your preference!

Final Thoughts

Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly delicious and versatile. You can customize them by adding different spices or serving them with various sides such as steamed vegetables or fried rice. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful meal that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner!

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