Air fryer chicken teriyaki is a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together. This method delivers perfectly crispy chicken with a glossy, sweet and savory teriyaki glaze, all without the mess of deep frying. Let's dive into everything you need to know to make this amazing dish.
What Makes Air Fryer Chicken Teriyaki So Great?
The beauty of air fryer chicken teriyaki lies in its simplicity and efficiency. The air fryer creates a wonderfully crisp exterior on the chicken while keeping the inside juicy and tender. This is a significant advantage over pan-frying or baking, where achieving both crispy skin and moist meat can be challenging. Furthermore, the air fryer requires minimal oil, making it a healthier alternative to deep frying. Finally, cleanup is a breeze!
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Teriyaki: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade – see recipe below!)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for extra thickness)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with sesame oil, garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Marinate (Optional): For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoned oil for at least 30 minutes, or even up to overnight in the refrigerator.
- Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they're not overcrowded. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
- Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the teriyaki sauce and cornstarch (if using). Brush the glaze generously over the cooked chicken.
- Finish Cooking: Return the chicken to the air fryer and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the glaze is sticky and caramelized.
- Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds, if desired, and serve immediately over rice, quinoa, or noodles.
Homemade Teriyaki Sauce Recipe
If you prefer a homemade teriyaki sauce, here's a simple recipe:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons mirin
- 1 tablespoon sake (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened.
How Long Does It Take to Cook Chicken Teriyaki in an Air Fryer?
The cooking time for air fryer chicken teriyaki depends on the thickness of your chicken pieces and your air fryer model. Generally, it takes around 10-15 minutes, including the time for glazing. Always ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) to guarantee it's cooked through.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for Air Fryer Chicken Teriyaki?
While it's best to use thawed chicken for optimal results, you can use frozen chicken. However, you'll need to increase the cooking time by approximately 5-7 minutes, and it’s crucial to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
What Temperature Should I Air Fry Chicken Teriyaki?
The ideal temperature for air frying chicken teriyaki is 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures the chicken cooks evenly and achieves that desirable crispy exterior.
Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Teriyaki
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket: Overcrowding will prevent proper air circulation, resulting in unevenly cooked chicken. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Flip the chicken halfway through: This ensures even browning and cooking on both sides.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most reliable way to ensure your chicken is cooked through to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Adjust cooking time as needed: Cooking times can vary depending on the size and thickness of your chicken pieces and your air fryer model.
Enjoy your delicious and easy air fryer chicken teriyaki! Remember to adjust seasoning to your preference.
