Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken: The Ultimate Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Introduction to Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken
Are you looking for a healthy, quick, and delicious dinner option? Look no further than Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken! This recipe combines the savory flavors of teriyaki sauce with tender, juicy chicken thighs, all cooked to perfection in an air fryer. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also a great way to enjoy a taste of Japan right at home. Ideal for busy weeknights or a casual dinner with friends, this dish will surely impress!
A Personal Story Behind My Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken Journey
Growing up, my family often enjoyed takeout from our favorite Japanese restaurant, and teriyaki chicken was always a hit. As I became more interested in cooking, I wanted to recreate that beloved dish at home. When I discovered the air fryer, it opened up a whole new world of possibilities! The air fryer allows for a quick cooking process that results in crispy, flavorful chicken, making it a staple in my kitchen. Now, I can share this delicious recipe with you!
What Makes This Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken Recipe Special?
This recipe is special for several reasons. First, it uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The combination of soy sauce, mirin, and sake creates a rich, flavorful marinade that infuses the chicken with deliciousness. Plus, the air fryer cooks the chicken quickly while keeping it juicy and tender. And let’s not forget about the homemade teriyaki glaze that elevates the dish to a whole new level! You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to achieve restaurant-quality teriyaki chicken at home.
The Full Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/3 cup mirin
- 1/3 cup sake
No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option. - 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 inch ginger, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons water
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, ginger, and garlic. This flavorful marinade will give your chicken that delicious teriyaki taste. Set aside ¼ to ½ cup of this sauce in a separate container for later use.
- Add the chicken cubes to the bowl with the teriyaki sauce. Make sure all the chicken is well-coated. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or, for the best flavor, preferably overnight.
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Preheating helps achieve a nice crisp on the chicken as it cooks.
- While the air fryer is heating up, take the reserved teriyaki sauce and pour it into a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the cornstarch and water, stirring until it thickens to make a delicious teriyaki glaze. This will be brushed on the chicken for added flavor.
- Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the marinated chicken in a single layer in the basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
- Air fry the chicken for 6 minutes. After this time, flip the chicken pieces and brush them with the teriyaki glaze you prepared earlier. Continue cooking for an additional 5-6 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Once done, let the chicken cool slightly before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken
This Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken is incredibly versatile. Serve it over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal. You can also add a side of stir-fried vegetables for extra nutrition and color. For a fun twist, consider making teriyaki chicken tacos using soft tortillas, topped with fresh veggies and a drizzle of the teriyaki glaze. Don’t forget to sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top for extra flavor and garnish!
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat. Just be aware that chicken breasts may cook quicker, so check their internal temperature early.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook it.
What can I substitute for mirin?
If you don’t have mirin, you can use a mixture of rice vinegar and sugar as a substitute, or simply use additional soy sauce with a pinch of sugar.
Is this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure that the mirin is gluten-free.
Enjoy your homemade Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken – it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Recipe Stats
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 22 minutes (including marinating time)
Calories per Serving: 250
Servings: 4
Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken
Equipment
- Air fryer Essential for cooking this dish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 0.5 cup soy sauce
- 0.333 cup mirin
- 0.333 cup sake No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option.
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 0.5 inch ginger, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons water
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, ginger, and garlic. Set aside ¼ to ½ cup for later use.
- Add the chicken cubes to the bowl with the teriyaki sauce. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor.
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
- In a small saucepan, combine reserved teriyaki sauce, cornstarch, and water. Stir until thickened to make the teriyaki glaze.
- Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray. Place marinated chicken in a single layer.
- Air fry for 6 minutes, then flip and brush with teriyaki glaze. Cook for an additional 5-6 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let cool slightly before serving.