Print

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe with Easy Honey Garlic Glaze

crispy air fryer chicken thighs - featured image

A quick and easy air fryer chicken thighs recipe featuring crispy skin and a sticky, sweet-savory honey garlic glaze. Perfect for busy weeknights and casual entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs / 700g)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced fresh
  • 3 tablespoons honey (raw or local preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium optional)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Handful of fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  2. Rub each piece with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
  4. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket without overlapping. Cook for 10 minutes.
  5. Flip the chicken thighs so the skin side is up and cook for another 10-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crisp.
  6. While the chicken cooks, combine minced garlic, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan.
  7. Simmer the glaze over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly (about 4-5 minutes).
  8. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and brush the honey garlic glaze generously over each piece.
  9. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry is essential for crispy skin. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to prevent soggy skin. Simmer the glaze gently to avoid burning the honey. Let the chicken rest 5 minutes after cooking for juicy meat. If no air fryer is available, bake at 425°F (220°C) on a wire rack for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken thighs, crispy chicken, honey garlic glaze, quick dinner, easy chicken recipe, weeknight meal, healthy chicken