The Ultimate Guide to Juicy Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken (with Homemade Sauce!)

Prepare to elevate your weeknight dinner game! This Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken recipe is so incredibly delicious and easy, it’s bound to become a new family favorite. Forget about greasy takeout; you’re about to create a dish that’s not only healthier but bursts with fresh, authentic flavors. The secret? Perfectly cooked, tender chicken thighs in your air fryer, generously coated in a rich, sweet, and savory homemade teriyaki sauce that you’ll whip up from scratch.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the incredible depth of flavor achieved with minimal effort. You’ll master the art of making your very own teriyaki sauce, far superior to anything you’d buy in a bottle. Once you experience the rich, glossy texture and balanced taste of homemade, there’s no turning back! This sauce perfectly complements the tender, juicy chicken cooked to perfection in your air fryer, resulting in a meal that tastes like it took hours, but actually comes together in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

• Unbeatable Flavor: The homemade teriyaki sauce is a game-changer, offering a perfectly balanced blend of sweet, savory, and umami notes that cling beautifully to the chicken.
• Quick & Easy: Thanks to the air fryer, this dish cooks remarkably fast, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Prep and cook time combined is approximately 30 minutes.
• Healthier Alternative: Air frying uses significantly less oil than traditional frying, and making your own sauce allows you to control the ingredients, reducing preservatives and excess sodium often found in store-bought versions.
• Juicy & Tender Chicken: The air fryer excels at cooking chicken to a succulent tenderness with a slightly caramelized exterior, locking in all the delicious juices.
• Versatile Meal: Pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, from simple rice to roasted vegetables, making it easy to create a complete and satisfying meal.
• Great for Meal Prep: Cook a larger batch and enjoy delicious leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

If you’re looking for more quick and delicious air fryer chicken recipes, don’t miss our Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken for another fantastic freezer-to-table option. For another twist on teriyaki, check out Air Fryer Teriyaki Pork Chops. And if you’re eager to explore more air fryer chicken possibilities, dive into our curated list of the top 50 air fryer chicken recipes.

Essential Ingredients for Your Teriyaki Feast

For the Air Fryer Chicken

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: We recommend thighs for their natural juiciness and flavor, which holds up wonderfully to air frying. Cut into bite-sized pieces for quicker cooking and better sauce absorption.
• Ground Black Pepper: A simple seasoning to enhance the chicken’s natural taste before it meets the teriyaki sauce.
• Green Onions (scallions) & Toasted Sesame Seeds: These are for garnish, adding a fresh burst of flavor and a lovely visual appeal to the finished dish.

Homemade Teriyaki Sauce Ingredients

• Soy Sauce: The foundation of our teriyaki, providing that essential umami and savory depth. Use low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
• Brown Sugar & Honey: A combination that offers a balanced sweetness and helps create that desirable glossy, sticky glaze.
• Ground Ginger: Adds a warm, slightly spicy aromatic note crucial for authentic teriyaki flavor. Freshly grated ginger can also be used for an even more vibrant taste.
• Minced Garlic: Another aromatic powerhouse, essential for a robust sauce. Fresh garlic is always best!
• Water: Used to thin the sauce to the right consistency.
• Cornstarch: Our thickening agent. When mixed with a bit of water (creating a slurry), it ensures your sauce is perfectly rich and coats the chicken beautifully.

How to Make the Perfect Homemade Teriyaki Sauce

Creating your own teriyaki sauce is surprisingly simple and incredibly rewarding. It allows you to control the sweetness and saltiness to your exact preference.

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the water, brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and ground ginger.
2. Initial Heating: Place the saucepan over low to medium heat. Stir frequently until the brown sugar and honey are completely dissolved. Do not boil vigorously yet.
3. Prepare Cornstarch Slurry: In a small separate bowl, combine the cornstarch with 1/4 cup of cold water. Whisk until the cornstarch is completely dissolved and no lumps remain. This slurry is essential for thickening the sauce smoothly.
4. Thicken the Sauce: Gradually add the cornstarch mixture to the simmering sauce in the saucepan, stirring continuously.
5. Achieve Desired Consistency: Increase the heat slightly to medium, stirring constantly. The sauce will begin to thicken as it heats. Continue to cook and stir until it reaches your desired level of thickness. If it becomes too thick, you can add a little extra water, one tablespoon at a time, until it’s perfect.
6. Remove and Set Aside: Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat. The sauce will continue to thicken slightly as it cools. Set it aside, ready for your air-fried chicken.

How to Make the Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken

Now that your incredible homemade teriyaki sauce is ready, let’s get that chicken perfectly cooked in the air fryer!

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into uniform, bite-sized pieces, roughly 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking and makes them easier to eat. Season generously with ground black pepper.

   
   

2. First Air Fry: Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs in a single layer in the basket of your air fryer. It’s crucial not to overcrowd the basket, as this allows for proper air circulation and crispy results. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 13-15 minutes. Halfway through cooking (around 7-8 minutes), shake the basket to ensure even cooking.

   
   

3. Toss with Sauce: Once the initial air frying is complete, carefully remove the cooked chicken thighs from the air fryer basket and transfer them to a medium-sized mixing bowl.
4. Coat Evenly: Pour the homemade teriyaki sauce over the chicken pieces. Toss gently with tongs or a spoon until every piece of chicken is thoroughly and evenly coated in the luscious sauce.

   
   

5. Final Air Fry for Glaze: Return the sauced chicken back to the air fryer basket, again in a single layer if possible. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for an additional 2 minutes. This final step allows the sauce to caramelize slightly and create a beautiful, sticky glaze. Always ensure the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer for food safety.

   
   

6. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the glazed teriyaki chicken to a serving platter. Garnish generously with freshly chopped green onion tops and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately with your favorite rice and a side of steamed or roasted vegetables for a complete, satisfying meal.

   
   

Tips for Perfecting Your Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken

• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For crispy, evenly cooked chicken, ensure pieces are in a single layer with some space between them. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Pat Chicken Dry: Before seasoning, pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a better sear and crispier texture.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: If your sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time until desired consistency. If too thin, mix a tiny bit more cornstarch with cold water and stir it in, then heat briefly.
• Check Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Marinating for Deeper Flavor: For an even more intense teriyaki flavor, you can marinate the chicken in a portion of the homemade sauce for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator, before the first air frying step. Reserve some sauce for tossing later.

Variations & Customizations

This Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for various adaptations to suit your taste and pantry.

• Use Chicken Breasts: If you prefer white meat, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used instead of thighs. Cut them into similar bite-sized pieces. Note that chicken breasts tend to cook faster and can dry out more easily, so keep a close eye on them and reduce cooking time slightly if needed, always checking with a meat thermometer.
• Add Vegetables: To make it a one-pan (or one-basket) meal, add quick-cooking vegetables like broccoli florets, sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or chopped carrots during the last 5-7 minutes of the initial air frying cycle, or after you’ve tossed the chicken in sauce for the final 2-minute air fry. This allows them to cook to tender-crisp perfection and soak up some of that delicious teriyaki flavor.
• Spice It Up: For those who love a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while it’s simmering, or drizzle a little Sriracha over the finished dish.
• Citrus Boost: A squeeze of fresh orange or lime juice, or a sprinkle of zest, can brighten the flavors of the teriyaki sauce. Add it towards the end of sauce preparation.
• Gluten-Free Option: Simply swap out regular soy sauce for Tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative to make this recipe gluten-friendly.

How to Serve

This easy air fryer chicken recipe is fantastic on its own, but truly shines when paired with complementary sides to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious ideas:

• Rice: The classic pairing! Serve over a bed of fluffy white rice, nutritious brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Fried rice also makes an excellent, flavorful companion.
• Noodles: Toss with lo mein or ramen noodles for a more hearty, noodle-bowl style meal.
• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, asparagus, or a medley of stir-fried vegetables (like bell peppers, onions, and carrots) complement the teriyaki chicken beautifully.
• Simple Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich teriyaki.
• Asian-Inspired Slaw: A crunchy cabbage slaw with a sesame-ginger dressing adds texture and tang.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken makes for excellent leftovers, perfect for meal prepping a few days in advance.

• Storage: Allow the cooked air fryer teriyaki chicken to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days for the best flavor and quality.
• Reheating in the Air Fryer: For the best results, reheat your leftovers in the air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a single layer and air fry for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy again. This method helps maintain the chicken’s texture and prevents it from getting soggy.
• Reheating in the Microwave: If you’re short on time, you can microwave the chicken. Place it on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway, until warmed through. Be mindful not to overheat, as this can dry out the chicken.
• Freezing: Cooked teriyaki chicken can also be frozen for longer storage. Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. It can be stored for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I add any toppings to this easy teriyaki chicken?

Absolutely! Toppings not only enhance the visual appeal but also add extra layers of flavor and texture. Beyond the recommended green onions and toasted sesame seeds, consider adding fresh chives for a mild oniony zest, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat, or even a drizzle of sriracha for a bolder kick. For a fun family dinner, set out a few topping options in small bowls and let everyone customize their own plate!

Can I meal prep this weeknight dinner?

This recipe is fantastic for meal prepping! You can prepare the chicken ahead of time by cutting it into bite-sized pieces and seasoning it. The sweet and sticky homemade teriyaki sauce can also be made a few days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When it’s time to cook, you’ll have most of the prep work already done, making dinner even quicker!

What kind of air fryer is best for this recipe?

Any air fryer model will work well for this recipe, whether it’s a basket-style or oven-style. The key is to ensure you cook the chicken in a single layer to allow for proper air circulation, which helps the chicken cook evenly and get that nice crispy texture. If you have a smaller air fryer, you might need to cook in multiple batches.

Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?

While we highly recommend making the homemade teriyaki sauce for its superior flavor and control over ingredients, you can certainly use a good quality store-bought teriyaki sauce in a pinch. Just be aware that the flavor profile might vary, and some store-bought sauces can be higher in sugar and sodium. Adjust quantities to your taste.

How do I know if my chicken is fully cooked?

The safest way to ensure your chicken is fully cooked is to use an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken piece; it should read 165°F (74°C). The chicken pieces should also appear opaque throughout with no pinkness in the center.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes to Try

If you’ve fallen in love with the convenience and delicious results of air frying, here are more fantastic chicken recipes to add to your repertoire:

• Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs
• Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Breast
• Air Fryer Yogurt Marinated Chicken
• Air Fryer Oatmeal Crusted Chicken
• Air Fryer Flamin’ Hot Cheetos Chicken

Recipe Card: Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 15 mins

Total Time: 30 mins

Ingredients

• 5 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• Green onions and toasted sesame seeds, for garnish

Homemade Teriyaki Sauce Ingredients

• ⅓ cup soy sauce
• 5 Tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 Tablespoon honey
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 Tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 cup water
• 2 Tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with ¼ cup cold water to make a slurry)

Equipment

• 1 Air Fryer
• Medium saucepan
• Small bowl for cornstarch slurry

Instructions

How to make Teriyaki Sauce:

1. Combine 1 cup water, brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and ginger in a medium saucepan. Heat over low to medium heat, stirring often, until sugar dissolves.
2. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the ¼ cup cold water by whisking until completely dissolved to create a slurry.
3. Add the cornstarch slurry to the saucepan, stirring continuously.
4. Increase the heat to medium and heat the sauce until it reaches your desired level of thickness, stirring constantly. Add additional water if needed for thinning the sauce.
5. Remove from heat and set aside.

How to Make Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken:

1. Cut the chicken thighs into small bite-sized pieces. Top with ground black pepper. Add the chicken thighs to the basket of the air fryer in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd.
2. Air fry the chicken thighs at 375°F (190°C) for 13-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
3. Remove the cooked chicken thighs from the air fryer basket and add them to a medium-sized bowl.
4. Mix the homemade teriyaki sauce into the chicken thighs until they are completely covered.
5. Add the sauced chicken back to the air fryer basket in a single layer and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to glaze. Ensure the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).
6. Garnish with green onion tops and sesame seeds, and serve immediately with rice and a side of vegetables.

Notes

• It’s important to let the air fryer teriyaki chicken thighs cool down completely before storing any leftovers in an airtight container. Consume leftovers within 3-4 days for the best flavor.
• Use chicken breasts – If you don’t want to use chicken thighs, chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces could also work for this recipe. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly, and chicken breasts tend to dry out more easily if overcooked.

Nutrition (Approximate per serving, for 4 servings)

• Calories: 291 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0.03g
• Cholesterol: 134mg
• Sodium: 1214mg
• Potassium: 434mg
• Fiber: 0.4g
• Sugar: 24g
• Vitamin A: 36 IU
• Vitamin C: 1mg
• Calcium: 40mg
• Iron: 2mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

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