This air fryer honey garlic chicken is sweet, sticky, and packed with flavor no deep frying required. Juicy chicken bites coated in a glossy honey garlic sauce make the perfect weeknight dinner or meal-prep favorite. Save this air fryer honey garlic chicken recipe for an easy, better-than-takeout meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy (ready in about 20 minutes)
- Family-friendly with adjustable sweetness
- Budget-friendly pantry ingredients
- Sticky, flavorful sauce without frying
- Customizable with spice or citrus
Ingredients
Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Chicken
- 1½ lbs (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Coating (Optional but Recommended)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Honey Garlic Sauce
- ⅓ cup honey
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
Garnish (Optional)
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped green onions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 200°C / 400°F for 3 minutes.
- Prepare the chicken – Toss chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until lightly coated.
- Air fry the chicken – Place the chicken in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and cooked through (75°C / 165°F).
- Make the sauce – In a small saucepan or bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, garlic, vinegar, and sesame oil.
- Toss and glaze – Transfer hot chicken to a bowl and toss with honey garlic sauce until evenly coated.
- Optional caramelization – Return chicken to the air fryer for 2–3 minutes to thicken and caramelize the sauce.
- Garnish and serve immediately.
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl
- Meat thermometer (optional)
Tips & Variations
- Extra sticky: Add 1 tsp cornstarch to the sauce and heat briefly
- Spicy version: Add chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce
- Soy-free: Use coconut aminos
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 180°C / 350°F for 4–5 minutes
- Avoid overcrowding for proper browning
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over steamed rice or fried rice
- Pair with roasted broccoli or green beans
- Add to lettuce wraps or bowls
- Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for presentation
Nutrition Facts
(Per serving – estimates)
- Calories: 360
- Carbs: 28 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Fat: 13 g
Conclusion
This air fryer honey garlic chicken delivers the perfect balance of sweet and savory with minimal effort. It’s faster than takeout, healthier than frying, and packed with flavor everyone loves. Save, print, or share this recipe for an easy dinner on any night of the week.
FAQ
Can I freeze air fryer honey garlic chicken?
Yes. Freeze cooked chicken without garnish for up to 2 months. Reheat and refresh with extra sauce.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Cook the chicken ahead and toss with the sauce just before serving.
Can I use chicken wings instead?
Absolutely. Adjust cooking time to ensure wings are fully cooked and crispy before glazing.
Do I need oil for this recipe?
No oil is required. The sauce provides enough moisture and shine.
Why is my sauce too thin?
Return the chicken to the air fryer for a few minutes, or thicken the sauce with cornstarch.