There’s something magical about the combination of sticky sweetness and a hint of heat. These Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs capture that magic in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution or an impressive dish to serve at your next gathering, this recipe hits the mark. With a perfectly balanced glaze, crispy skin, and tender meat, these chicken thighs are a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors.
PrintSticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer
🌟🍗 Level up your dinner game with these Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs! 🌶️✨ Juicy, golden-brown chicken thighs cooked to perfection in the air fryer and smothered in a glossy, sweet chili glaze. A mouthwatering combo of crispy, spicy, and sweet that’s ready in no time! 💥🍴
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- Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
For the Chicken Thighs:
- 6 bone-in chicken thighs: Skin-on for extra crispiness and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil: Helps create a crispy skin and locks in flavor.
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper: Adds a tangy citrusy kick.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory profile.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon pepper: For a subtle heat and depth.
For the Sticky Glaze:
- ½ cup sweet chili sauce: The star ingredient that brings sweetness and spice.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds umami and depth to the glaze.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Elevates the flavor with a hint of richness.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Brings nutty, aromatic notes to the glaze.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Thighs
- Preheat your air fryer or oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture ensures a crispy skin.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
- In a small bowl, mix together:
- Avocado oil
- Lemon pepper
- Garlic powder
- Salt
- Pepper
- Rub the seasoning mix evenly over the chicken thighs, making sure to coat both sides thoroughly.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Air Fryer Method
- Place the chicken skin-side down in the air fryer basket.
- Cook at 375°F for 15 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 10 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Oven Method
- Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Roast chicken skin-side down at 400°F for 20 minutes, then flip and roast for an additional 10 minutes until crispy.
Step 4: Prepare the Sticky Glaze
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the glaze:
- In a large bowl, whisk together:
- Sweet chili sauce
- Soy sauce
- Oyster sauce
- Sesame oil
Step 5: Apply the Sticky Glaze
- During the last few minutes of cooking, baste the chicken thighs generously with the sticky glaze.
- For extra caramelization, repeat the basting process 3-4 times.
Step 6: Optional Broiling for Extra Crispiness
- For an extra-crispy finish, turn on the broiler during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
- Keep a close eye on the chicken to prevent burning.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the chicken thighs rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Pair them with jasmine rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Flavor: The glaze is a harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, savory, and nutty flavors. The sweet chili sauce provides a mild heat that’s perfectly balanced by the umami-rich soy and oyster sauces.
- Texture: The chicken skin is delightfully crispy, while the meat inside remains tender and juicy. The sticky glaze adds a luscious, caramelized coating that’s hard to resist.
- Aroma: As the chicken cooks, your kitchen will fill with the tantalizing aroma of sesame oil and sweet chili sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
The best part? You can cook them in an air fryer or oven, making them incredibly versatile and convenient. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to prepare this irresistible dish, from the carefully chosen ingredients to pro-level tips for perfect results.
Why This Recipe is a Winner
1. Quick and Easy to Prepare
In under 30 minutes, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal without breaking a sweat. The air fryer speeds up cooking time while delivering beautifully crispy results.
2. Irresistible Flavors
The sticky glaze, made with sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, and oyster sauce, creates an explosion of flavors. The sweetness and spice are perfectly balanced, with a savory undertone that keeps you coming back for more.
3. Versatile Cooking Methods
Whether you prefer the efficiency of an air fryer or the traditional oven, this recipe adapts seamlessly. Both methods ensure the chicken is juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside.
4. Family-Friendly
The mild heat of the sweet chili sauce makes this dish appealing to kids and adults alike. You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your family’s preferences.
5. Perfect for Any Occasion
From casual weeknight dinners to special occasions, these chicken thighs are versatile enough to suit any setting. Pair them with a side of jasmine rice or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Ingredients
To make these Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs, you’ll need a mix of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Here’s what to gather:
For the Chicken Thighs:
- 6 bone-in chicken thighs: Skin-on for extra crispiness and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil: Helps create a crispy skin and locks in flavor.
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper: Adds a tangy citrusy kick.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory profile.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon pepper: For a subtle heat and depth.
For the Sticky Glaze:
- ½ cup sweet chili sauce: The star ingredient that brings sweetness and spice.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds umami and depth to the glaze.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Elevates the flavor with a hint of richness.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Brings nutty, aromatic notes to the glaze.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to create perfectly caramelized and juicy Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs every time.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Thighs
- Preheat your air fryer or oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture ensures a crispy skin.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
- In a small bowl, mix together:
- Avocado oil
- Lemon pepper
- Garlic powder
- Salt
- Pepper
- Rub the seasoning mix evenly over the chicken thighs, making sure to coat both sides thoroughly.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Air Fryer Method
- Place the chicken skin-side down in the air fryer basket.
- Cook at 375°F for 15 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 10 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Oven Method
- Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Roast chicken skin-side down at 400°F for 20 minutes, then flip and roast for an additional 10 minutes until crispy.
Step 4: Prepare the Sticky Glaze
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the glaze:
- In a large bowl, whisk together:
- Sweet chili sauce
- Soy sauce
- Oyster sauce
- Sesame oil
Step 5: Apply the Sticky Glaze
- During the last few minutes of cooking, baste the chicken thighs generously with the sticky glaze.
- For extra caramelization, repeat the basting process 3-4 times.
Step 6: Optional Broiling for Extra Crispiness
- For an extra-crispy finish, turn on the broiler during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
- Keep a close eye on the chicken to prevent burning.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the chicken thighs rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Pair them with jasmine rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Flavor Profile and Experience
These Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs offer a culinary experience that engages all the senses:
- Flavor: The glaze is a harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, savory, and nutty flavors. The sweet chili sauce provides a mild heat that’s perfectly balanced by the umami-rich soy and oyster sauces.
- Texture: The chicken skin is delightfully crispy, while the meat inside remains tender and juicy. The sticky glaze adds a luscious, caramelized coating that’s hard to resist.
- Aroma: As the chicken cooks, your kitchen will fill with the tantalizing aroma of sesame oil and sweet chili sauce.
Tips for Success
1. Choose the Right Chicken
- Opt for bone-in, skin-on thighs for maximum flavor and juiciness.
2. Master the Glaze
- Use high-quality sweet chili sauce for the best results.
- Adjust the sweetness and spice to suit your taste by adding a touch of honey or a pinch of chili flakes.
3. Cook to Perfection
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Avoid overcooking, as this can dry out the meat.
4. Enhance the Presentation
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a restaurant-quality finish.
- Serve on a platter with steamed jasmine rice or fresh veggies for a vibrant presentation.
Variations
1. Make it Spicier
- Add sriracha or chili flakes to the glaze for a fiery kick.
2. Try a Different Protein
- Substitute chicken thighs with drumsticks, wings, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
3. Experiment with Sides
- Pair with garlic butter noodles, coconut rice, or a crunchy Asian slaw for a unique twist.
Why You’ll Love It
These Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs are more than just a recipe; they’re an experience. From the crackle of the crispy skin to the bold, sticky glaze, every bite is a journey of flavors and textures. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish promises satisfaction with every mouthful.
Don’t just take my word for it—grab your ingredients, fire up your air fryer or oven, and treat yourself to this irresistible meal today!