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- 4 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in - 1/4 cup soy sauce - 2 tablespoons honey - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger - 1 tablespoon sesame oil - 1 teaspoon black pepper - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat) - 2 green onions, sliced for garnish - Sesame seeds for garnish For this recipe, it's important to use the right amounts. The chicken thighs provide a hearty base. The soy sauce adds saltiness and umami. Honey gives a sweet touch that balances the salt. Garlic and ginger offer bold flavors. Using sesame oil adds a nutty taste, which is key to this dish. Black pepper gives warmth, and red pepper flakes can spice it up if you like heat. - Chicken Thighs: I prefer bone-in thighs for juiciness. The skin helps keep moisture in. - Soy Sauce: Choose a good quality soy sauce. It enhances the overall taste. - Honey: Use pure honey for the best flavor. It helps caramelize the chicken. - Garlic and Ginger: Fresh garlic and ginger add depth. They make the dish aromatic and vibrant. - Sesame Oil: This adds a rich, nutty flavor. A little goes a long way. - Red Pepper Flakes: Optional but fun! They bring a kick if you enjoy spice. These ingredients work together to create a dish that is both savory and sweet, making each bite a flavorful delight. To start, grab a large mixing bowl. Add 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of honey, and 4 cloves of minced garlic. Next, add 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of black pepper and, if you like heat, add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Whisk everything together until it blends well. The mix should smell amazing! Now, take 4 chicken thighs and place them in the marinade. Use your hands or a spoon to coat each piece well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Let the chicken sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinate for up to 2 hours. This step helps the flavors soak in deep. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes. Once ready, take the chicken thighs out of the marinade. Let the excess marinade drip off. Place the thighs in the air fryer basket, skin-side up. Cook them for 20 to 25 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even cooking. Check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). When done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy your flavorful delight! To get crispy skin, start with dry chicken thighs. Pat them with paper towels before marinating. The marinade adds flavor but can make the skin wet. After marinating, let excess marinade drip off. This way, the air fryer can do its magic. Cook them skin-side up in the air fryer. This helps render the fat and crisp up the skin nicely. Marinate your chicken thighs for at least 30 minutes. This gives the flavors time to sink in. If you have more time, aim for 2 hours. Longer marinating makes the chicken even more tasty. Just don’t go over 2 hours, or the soy sauce can make the meat too salty. To check if your chicken is done, use a meat thermometer. You want the internal temp to reach 165°F (74°C). This means it’s safe to eat. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the chicken. The juices should run clear, not pink. Always let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep it juicy and tender. {{image_2}} You can change the taste of soy garlic chicken thighs by adding new flavors. Try using orange juice instead of honey for a citrus twist. You can also add a splash of rice vinegar for some tang. If you like heat, mix in more red pepper flakes or add some sriracha. For a sweeter touch, try maple syrup instead of honey. Each change gives a new taste while keeping the base recipe. While chicken thighs are great, other cuts can work too. You can use chicken breasts for a leaner option. Just remember, breasts may cook faster. Adjust the cooking time down to about 15-20 minutes. Drumsticks are another fun choice. They stay juicy and have a nice skin when air-fried. Just keep an eye on the internal temperature to ensure they are safe to eat. Air frying gives a crispy outside, but you can cook these thighs in other ways too. Baking in the oven works well if you don’t have an air fryer. Set your oven to 400°F (204°C) and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You can also grill the chicken for a smoky flavor. Just marinate as usual and cook on medium heat for about 6-8 minutes per side. Each method brings its own unique flair to this tasty dish. After cooking, let the chicken cool. Place it in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure it is sealed well to keep the flavors fresh. You can freeze leftovers for later use. Wrap each chicken thigh in plastic wrap. Then, put them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. To reheat, use your air fryer for the best results. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Heat the chicken for about 5 to 10 minutes. This helps keep the skin crispy. You can also use a microwave, but it may not be as crispy. I recommend air frying chicken thighs for 20 to 25 minutes. You should set the air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Flip the thighs halfway through cooking for even crispiness. Always check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe eating. Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. They will cook faster than bone-in thighs. Adjust the cooking time to about 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. The tender meat will soak up the soy garlic flavors well. Many sides go well with soy garlic chicken. Here are some great options: - Steamed rice - Fried rice - Roasted vegetables - Asian slaw - Garlic mashed potatoes These sides will complement the rich flavors of the chicken and make your meal more filling. This article covered how to make tasty soy garlic chicken in an air fryer. We reviewed key ingredients, the best way to marinate chicken, and cooking steps. I offered tips on achieving crispy skin and ensuring perfect doneness. You can explore different flavors and cooking methods, plus storage tips. Now you have a simple guide to make delicious chicken meals. Enjoy your cooking adventure and share your results!

Air Fryer Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

Savor the savory delight of Air Fryer Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs with this easy recipe! Juicy chicken thighs marinated in a delicious blend of soy sauce, honey, and garlic come out perfectly crispy and flavorful in the air fryer. In just 50 minutes, you can enjoy this mouthwatering dish that's sure to impress friends and family. Click to discover the full recipe and elevate your dinner tonight!
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Ingredients
  

4 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in

1/4 cup soy sauce

2 tablespoons honey

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

2 green onions, sliced for garnish

Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions
 

In a large mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Whisk until fully blended to create a marinade.

    Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).

      Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes.

        Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, allowing the excess to drip off, and place them in the air fryer basket skin-side up.

          Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).

            Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes.

              Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4