This air fryer teriyaki chicken is sticky, sweet, and incredibly juicy. Made with a simple homemade teriyaki sauce, it cooks perfectly in the air fryer in under 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a healthier takeout-style dinner. Save this easy air fryer chicken recipe for later.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy – ready in under 25 minutes
- Family-friendly – sweet-savory flavor everyone loves
- Budget-friendly – simple pantry ingredients
- Customizable – use chicken breasts or thighs, adjust sweetness
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1½ lbs chicken breast or boneless skinless thighs
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Teriyaki Sauce
- ¼ cup soy sauce (or low-sodium)
- 3 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated (or ½ tsp ground ginger)
- 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
For Garnish (Optional)
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the sauce
In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. - Season the chicken
Pat chicken dry and lightly season with salt and pepper. - Marinate (optional but recommended)
Toss chicken with half of the teriyaki sauce. Let sit 10–30 minutes if time allows. - Preheat air fryer
Preheat to 380°F (193°C) for 3 minutes. - Air fry the chicken
Place chicken in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 10 minutes, flip, then cook another 6–8 minutes until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C). - Thicken the sauce (optional)
Simmer remaining sauce in a small pan. Add cornstarch slurry and cook until glossy and thick. - Glaze & serve
Brush chicken with thickened sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Small saucepan (optional, for thickening sauce)
Tips & Variations
- Chicken thighs = juicier results, breasts = leaner
- Swap honey for maple syrup or brown sugar
- Add chili flakes or sriracha for heat
- Avoid overcrowding — cook in batches for caramelization
Storage & Reheating
- Store in airtight container up to 4 days
- Reheat in air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over steamed rice, jasmine rice, or cauliflower rice
- Pair with broccoli, green beans, or snap peas
- Slice and use in bowls, wraps, or meal prep containers
Nutrition Facts (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 12g
(Values may vary based on ingredients used.)
Conclusion
This Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and juicy, all with minimal effort. Whether you’re meal prepping or making a quick family dinner, this recipe delivers big flavor fast.
Save, print, or share this recipe so it’s always ready when cravings hit.
FAQ
Can I freeze air fryer teriyaki chicken?
Yes Freeze cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Cook and store in the fridge, then reheat when ready.
Can I use bottled teriyaki sauce?
Yes, but homemade gives better flavor and less sugar.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make it GF.
Can I cook frozen chicken?
Yes, add 5–7 minutes and the sauce after cooking.