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Sticky, Juicy, 15-Minute Magic

Print Recipe
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts; thighs stay juicier
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil avocado, canola, or light olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper just a pinch for seasoning
Homemade Teriyaki Sauce
  • 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
  • 3 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons mirin or 1 tbsp rice vinegar + 1 tsp extra honey as sub
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated or 1/2 tsp ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch for slurry
Optional Garnishes
  • Sliced green onions
  • Toasted sesame seeds
  • Lime wedges not traditional, but brightens everything

Method
 

  1. In a small saucepan, whisk soy sauce, honey, mirin, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and water. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
  2. Stir cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water to make a slurry. Whisk into the simmering sauce and cook 1–2 minutes until glossy and thick enough to coat a spoon. Remove from heat.
  3. Pat chicken dry. Trim excess fat. Cut into 1.5-inch pieces for faster, even cooking (or leave whole thighs if you prefer). Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  4. Toss chicken with 3 tablespoons of the teriyaki sauce and 1 tablespoon oil. Let sit 10–15 minutes while your air fryer preheats. Reserve the rest of the sauce for glazing.
  5. 380°F (193°C) for 3–5 minutes. A warm basket gives that caramelized edge you want.
  6. Arrange chicken in a single layer with space between pieces. No pile-ups. Work in batches if needed.
  7. Cook at 380°F for 7 minutes. Shake the basket or flip pieces halfway through.
  8. Brush chicken with more teriyaki sauce. Air fry 3–5 more minutes until internal temp hits 165°F (74°C) and edges look slightly charred and sticky.
  9. Toss cooked chicken with additional warm teriyaki sauce in a bowl to coat every piece. Don't be shy—this is the money shot.
  10. Sprinkle sesame seeds and green onions. Serve over rice, noodles, or steamed veggies. Squeeze a little lime if you like zing.