Air Fryer Korean Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

Name: Air Fryer Korean Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 3 tablespoons honey; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Experience the savory taste of this Air Fryer Korean Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs recipe that combines tender chicken thighs with a luscious soy-garlic marinade. Perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, this dish is a quick and easy way to bring the bold and fragrant flavors of Korean cuisine to your dinner table. Serve these delicious thighs with steamed rice or veggies for a complete meal that will impress your family and friends.

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2025-11-16T10:37:38.414Z

The Perfect Marinade

A great marinade is essential for bringing out the rich flavors of chicken thighs. In this recipe, the combination of soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and sesame oil creates a well-balanced taste that is both savory and slightly sweet. The acidity from the soy sauce helps tenderize the meat, ensuring that each bite is juicy and flavorful. Don't rush this step; allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes will enhance the dish significantly.

The garlic in the marinade adds an aromatic depth that complements the other ingredients beautifully. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, the optional red pepper flakes can be adjusted to your spice preference. This marinade not only works well with chicken thighs but can also be used for other proteins, making it a versatile addition to your cooking repertoire.

Air Frying for Perfect Crispiness

Air frying is a game changer in the kitchen, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying without sacrificing flavor. The hot air circulation in the air fryer creates a perfectly crispy exterior while locking in moisture inside, making it an ideal cooking method for chicken thighs. In this recipe, preheating the air fryer ensures that the chicken sears beautifully right from the start, resulting in a delightful crunch that your family will love.

Another benefit of air frying is the reduced cooking time compared to conventional methods. With this technique, you can have a deliciously crispy meal on the table in about 20 minutes. This makes the recipe perfect for busy weeknights when you need to whip up something quick yet satisfying.

Serving Suggestions

Once your Air Fryer Korean Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs are ready, serving them with steamed rice is a classic choice that complements the bold flavors wonderfully. The rice helps absorb the savory sauce, making each bite even more satisfying. For a light and fresh side, consider pairing the dish with sautéed or steamed vegetables like bok choy or broccoli. This adds nutrition to your meal while balancing the richness of the chicken.

You might also think about creating a Korean-inspired feast! Serve these chicken thighs alongside kimchi, pickled vegetables, or a refreshing cucumber salad. With these additional sides, you'll create a well-rounded meal that showcases the essence of Korean cuisine, impressing your guests and family alike.

Ingredients

Chicken Marinade

4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
1/4 cup soy sauce
3 tablespoons honey
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)

Mix all the marinade ingredients and marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, sesame oil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.

Marinate the Chicken

Add chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade. Ensure the chicken is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10 minutes. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Serve

Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with rice or veggies.

Serve hot and enjoy your meal!

Tips for Success

To ensure your chicken thighs turn out perfectly, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. This allows hot air to circulate around each piece, ensuring even cooking and crispiness. If you're cooking a large batch, consider working in batches to maintain the quality of the dish.

Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. Once it reaches 165°F (75°C), you can be confident it's safe to eat. Let your chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking; this helps retain the juices and enhances the flavor.

Storage and Reheating

If you have any leftovers, store your marinated chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain that crispy texture, or use an oven to bring back some crunch.

Freezing is an option as well. Prepare the marinade, coat the chicken, and place it in a freezer-safe bag. This allows you to marinate while thawing, providing convenience for meal prep. Just remember to adjust your cooking time based on the thickness of the chicken thighs when reheating.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with the marinade! Adding ginger or lemon zest can provide an extra layer of flavor that enhances the dish. You can also try substituting the honey with maple syrup or brown sugar for a different sweetness profile, making the flavors more diverse.

For a higher protein meal, consider adding vegetables to the air fryer basket alongside the chicken. Carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini can grill beautifully and absorb some of that delicious marinade flavor, resulting in a satisfying one-pan meal that’s quick and nutritious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bone-in chicken thighs?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time as they may take longer to cook through.

→ Can I substitute the soy sauce?

Yes, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a lower sodium alternative.