Air Fryer Glazed Chicken Thighs

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs thrive in the air fryer, self-basting with their own fat for maximum tenderness. A rich honey-garlic glaze applied in the final minutes creates a caramelized, glossy crust without burning.

Ingredients

• 4 Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken Thighs (approx. 1.5 to 2 lbs)
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil (or avocado oil)
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tsp Onion Powder
• 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
• ½ tsp Black Pepper
• ½ tsp Kosher Salt
• ½ tsp Baking Powder
• 3 tbsp Honey
• 2 tbsp Low-Sodium Soy Sauce
• 1 tbsp Fresh Garlic, minced (about 3 cloves)
• 1 tsp Fresh Ginger, grated
• 1 tsp Apple Cider Vinegar
• ½ tsp Sriracha (optional)
• 1 tsp Sesame Oil
• 1 tbsp Toasted Sesame Seeds
• 2 Green Onions, thinly sliced

Instructions

1. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry using paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and baking powder.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken, then coat thoroughly with the dry rub, making sure to get underneath the skin.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3–5 minutes.
5. Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down in a single layer inside the basket, leaving space between each piece.
6. Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 12 minutes.
7. While the chicken is cooking, combine the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, ginger, apple cider vinegar, sriracha, and sesame oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened (or microwave for 45 seconds).
8. Flip the chicken thighs skin-side up and brush a generous layer of glaze over the tops of each piece.
9. Increase the air fryer temperature to 400°F (204°C).
10. Cook for an additional 6–8 minutes, applying a second layer of glaze around the 4-minute mark.
11. Check doneness with an instant-read meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C), though 175°F–180°F (80°C–82°C) is recommended for tenderness.
12. Transfer the chicken thighs to a wire rack or platter and let them rest for 5 minutes.
13. Drizzle with remaining glaze, then sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and fresh sliced green onions.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the basket to ensure proper air circulation and crispiness. Apply glaze only during the last 6–8 minutes to prevent burning. Baking powder helps draw out moisture for shatteringly crisp skin.