Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken is a delicious and satisfying dish that balances sweet and savory flavors with a hint of umami. This recipe features tender chicken pieces coated in a homemade teriyaki sauce, cooked to perfection in an air fryer for a quick and healthy meal. The convenience of the air fryer ensures that the chicken retains its juiciness while developing a delectable crispy exterior, making it a go-to choice for busy weeknights or weekend meal prep.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This air fryer teriyaki chicken is not only bursting with flavor but is also incredibly easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a mouthwatering dish that fits perfectly into a balanced diet. The air fryer cuts down on excess oil, making this a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. Plus, the homemade teriyaki sauce allows you to control the sweetness and sodium levels, catering to your personal taste and dietary needs. You’ll love how simple it is to make this dish, and your family will be asking for seconds!
Tips and Tricks
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight, to enhance the flavor.
- Preheat your air fryer for a few minutes before adding the chicken for even cooking.
- To ensure the chicken cooks evenly, cut the chicken into uniform pieces.
- For an extra punch of flavor, add minced ginger or garlic to the teriyaki sauce.
- If you want a thicker sauce, simply simmer it in a saucepan after the chicken is cooked.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prep the chicken and marinate it the night before for an easy weeknight meal. Simply store the marinated chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The marinated chicken will stay fresh for up to 2 days. Cooked chicken can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a great option for meal prep.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize this recipe by swapping out the chicken for tofu or shrimp for a different protein option. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas in the air fryer for a complete meal. For a spicy kick, add a splash of sriracha to the teriyaki sauce or sprinkle chili flakes over the cooked chicken.
How to Serve
Serve your air fryer teriyaki chicken on a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa. For extra color and crunch, top it with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Pair with steamed vegetables or a simple salad on the side for a well-rounded meal. Present the dish in a vibrant bowl to enhance the visual appeal!
Pairing Suggestions
For a refreshing drink, pair your teriyaki chicken with a light, crisp sake or a fruity white wine like Riesling. If you prefer cocktails, a cucumber mojito adds a refreshing touch. Complement your meal with a side of steamed edamame or miso soup, and finish with a light dessert like green tea ice cream for a complete Asian-inspired dinner.
How to Store
Leftover air fryer teriyaki chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, place the chicken in a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through, to maintain that crispy texture.
Equipment Needed
- Air fryer: A standard air fryer is essential for this recipe, though an oven-style air fryer will work as well.
- Mixing bowl: For marinating the chicken.
- Airtight container: For storage and marinating.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh. Use a homemade teriyaki sauce that is free from honey or any animal products. For a gluten-free version, ensure you use tamari instead of soy sauce. Adjust the sweetness according to your dietary needs by using alternatives like agave or coconut sugar.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring and summer, consider adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to the teriyaki sauce for a bright flavor. In the fall, swap in seasonal vegetables like butternut squash or Brussels sprouts in the air fryer. In winter, incorporate hearty greens like kale or spinach for added nutrition.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use boneless thighs instead of breasts? Yes, boneless chicken thighs work wonderfully for this recipe and will remain juicy.
How long should I cook the chicken? Cooking time may vary based on the size of the chicken pieces. Generally, about 12-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C) should suffice.
Can I make this without an air fryer? Yes! You can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce? Absolutely, but for the best flavor and health benefits, homemade is recommended.
How To Make air fryer teriyaki chicken
Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken
Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken is a delicious and satisfying dish that balances sweet and savory flavors with a hint of umami.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger until well combined.
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and add them to the marinade. Toss to coat and let marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess. If desired, mix the leftover marinade with cornstarch in a saucepan and simmer until thickened for a sauce.
- Place the chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and drizzle with the thickened sauce if using. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
- Serve immediately with your choice of rice and vegetables.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 434Total Fat 16gSaturated Fat 3gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 11gCholesterol 138mgSodium 1895mgCarbohydrates 27gFiber 1gSugar 21gProtein 47g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Air fryer teriyaki chicken is a delightful dish that is not only quick and easy to prepare but also full of flavor and texture. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. With its versatility, you can customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen!