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Air Fryer Korean Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

  • Author: simplemealsbykim
  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 18–20 mins
  • Total Time: 40 mins (includes marinating)
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Air Fryer
  • Cuisine: Korean
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

Juicy and flavorful Korean-style soy garlic chicken thighs, air-fried to crispy perfection—sweet, savory, and easy to make.


Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp grated ginger
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thicker sauce)
  • 1 tbsp water
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • 2 scallions, sliced (for garnish)


Instructions

  1. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger and pepper.
  2. Pat chicken thighs dry and place in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour half the marinade over chicken; reserve the rest.
  3. Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
  4. Preheat air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.
  5. Place chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10 minutes.
  6. Flip thighs, brush with reserved marinade, and cook another 8–10 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and skin is crispy.
  7. Optional: In a small saucepan, combine remaining marinade, cornstarch, and water. Bring to a simmer until thickened, then brush over cooked chicken.
  8. Garnish with sesame seeds and scallions. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Adjust honey and sugar to taste for more or less sweetness.
  • Using skin-on thighs gives crispier results, but skinless can also be used.
  • Marinating longer enhances flavor; you can marinate overnight.
  • Check air fryer model for recommended guidance on layering—avoid overcrowding for even cooking.