Step 1: Preparing the Chicken Thighs

Preheat your oven or air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for rendering the fat beneath the chicken skin, creating a crispy exterior.

Tip: Patting the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel is essential. Removing excess moisture ensures that the skin crisps up beautifully during cooking.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a small bowl, mix the avocado oil, lemon pepper, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture generously over the chicken thighs, ensuring even coverage for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Cooking the Chicken

• Air Fryer Method: Place the chicken thighs skin side down in the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F for 15 minutes.
• Oven Method: Line a baking tray with parchment paper and arrange the chicken thighs skin side down. Roast at 400°F for 20 minutes, then flip and roast for an additional 10 minutes until the skin is crispy.

Pro Tip: For both methods, flipping the chicken halfway through cooking helps to achieve even browning.

Step 4: Making the Sticky Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the glaze. In a large bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. The sauce should be well combined, creating a rich, sticky base that will coat the chicken.

Step 5: Applying the Glaze

Baste the chicken thighs with the sticky glaze several times during the final stages of cooking. If using the air fryer, apply the glaze after 15 minutes and continue basting every few minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For the oven, start basting after the initial 20 minutes, then continue every 5 minutes as you roast for another 10 minutes.

Note: Frequent basting helps build layers of flavor and ensures that the sauce caramelizes properly.

Step 6: Broiling for Extra Crispiness (Optional)

For an added touch of crispiness, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Watch closely to prevent burning, as the sugar content in the glaze can darken quickly. The result should be a beautifully caramelized chicken with a sticky, glossy finish.

Step 7: Resting and Serving

Once the chicken is fully cooked and caramelized, remove it from the air fryer or oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy.

Serving Suggestion: These Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs are perfect over a bed of jasmine rice, which soaks up the flavorful glaze, or alongside roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.