Easy Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken
Need a fast but flavorful idea for dinner? This is the Ideal Recipe to Take Your Weeknight Dinners to the Next Level. Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken is a recipe that is Juicy within & crispy on the outside. This is the recipe to make on busy nights when all you want is something easy, yet restaurant-quality.
Whether you’re a kitchen pro or considered a novice with a little experience, this recipe makes it easy to prepare mouthwatering chicken thighs. Complemented by jasmine rice, steamed veggies, or simply on its own, this air fryer recipe will quickly become one of your go-tos.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: 10 minutes of prep time, about 20 minutes of cooking time.
- Packed with flavor: Honey garlic marinade that caramelizes and crisps up wonderfully.
- Healthy & Gluten-Free: Made with coconut aminos in lieu of soy sauce to reduce sodium levels, and it’s gluten-free!
- Minimal Cleanup: Skip the Oven? We’re relying on the air fryer, keeping it simple.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish (and why the ingredients shine):
- 7–8 Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs – Cooking with the skin-on helps create that crispy texture while locking in moisture.
- Coconut aminos (¼ cup) – A gluten-free substitute for soy sauce with lower sodium.
- Honey (¼ cup) – Adds a subtle sweetness and aids caramelization.
- Lime juice (1 ½ tbsp) – Balances the sweetness with a touch of acidity.
- Olive oil (both ½ tbsp regular + 1 ½ tbsp garlic-infused optional) – Helps coat the chicken for even cooking.
- Seasonings – Paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper for a flavorful boost.
Pro tip: Need to restock? Look for gluten-free seasonings at Olive Nation or a drizzle of Costabile’s olive oil for additional flavor (each has discount codes).
Required Equipment
- Air Fryer
- Meat Thermometer – For perfectly cooked chicken.
- Pastry Brush – Ideal for coating chicken or brushing on extra marinade.
Instructions
Prepare Chicken Thighs
- Rinse and pat dry.
- Put the thighs in a large bowl and drain off any excess water.
Marinate
- Pour all of the following into the bowl: honey, garlic or plain olive oil, coconut aminos, lime juice, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Once again, use your hands to properly coat the chicken.
- Move to a zip lock bag and marinate in the fridge for at least half an hour, or overnight for an added punch.
Preheat Air Fryer
- Set it to 400°F (200°C). With the pastry brush, spread some oil into the tray to prevent sticking.
Cook
- Carefully lay the chicken skin-side down in the air fryer basket. Allow enough space between each piece to allow for even cooking.
- Cook for 10 minutes, flip, cook for another 8 minutes.
- Check the internal temperature, 165°F when done; cook in additional 3-minute increments, turning and checking as needed.
Serve Immediately
- Serve with jasmine rice, steamed vegetables, noodles or a side salad.
Notes
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken
- Use a meat thermometer so you don’t overcook.
- For some added flavor, brush the chicken with unused marinade as you flip it.
- Don’t line your air fryer with parchment paper or foil — it prevents crisping.
How to Serve It
This adaptable recipe shines with a variety of side dishes. Try serving it with:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice
- Fried Rice with veggies
- Fresh Side Salad
- French Fries or Oven Roasted Potatoes
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container for up 4 days.
- Reheating: Microwave 2 pieces at a time on high for 1.5 to 2 minutes.
Full Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 318 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 11 g
- Protein: 21 g
- Fat: 21 g (Saturated Fat 6 g)
- Cholesterol: 124 mg
- Sodium: 485 mg
- Potassium: 273 mg
- Sugar: 9 g
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs )
1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in thighs?
Yes! Cook for about 6 minutes per side. Be sure to check the internal temp before serving.
2. What should I do if my air fryer basket is small?
No problem! Cook in batches so the chicken crisps evenly.
3. Can I use soy sauce in place of coconut aminos?
Yes, but be aware that soy sauce contains gluten unless you buy gluten-free.
4. Is this recipe spicy?
No. The paprika gives a mild smoky flavor, but you can use chili powder instead to add heat.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
Designed for simplicity and maximum flavor, this recipe is not only straightforward but adjustable. There’s something about the extra sweetness and caramelization depth that honey adds, coupled with the juicy tenderness of chicken thighs that makes this ideal for dinner or meal prep.
All Set to Make Your Dinner Awesome? Make this Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken recipe for a healthy meal your whole family will love and request again and again today!