Description
Crispy, juicy, and packed with sweet-savory flavor, these Air Fryer Korean Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs are a must-try! They’re air-fried to golden perfection, then coated in a sticky soy garlic glaze that delivers bold taste in every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, this recipe brings Korean-inspired flavors right into your kitchen—without deep frying.
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Ingredients
For the Chicken Thighs:
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6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (trimmed)
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1 tbsp vegetable oil
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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1 tsp paprika
For the Korean Soy Garlic Sauce:
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⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
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2 tbsp honey
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1 tbsp brown sugar
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1 tbsp rice vinegar
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1 tbsp sesame oil
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp grated fresh ginger
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1 tsp cornstarch
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1 tbsp water
For Garnish & Serving:
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1 tsp sesame seeds
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2 green onions, thinly sliced
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Steamed white rice or jasmine rice
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Kimchi or pickled vegetables (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken Thighs
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Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel.
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In a bowl, toss chicken with oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
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Rub the seasoning all over, making sure to get under the skin for more flavor.
Step 2: Preheat and Cook in the Air Fryer
4. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3–5 minutes.
5. Place chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
6. Air fry for 10 minutes, then flip and cook another 8–10 minutes until internal temperature reaches 175°F and the skin is crispy.
Step 3: Make the Soy Garlic Sauce
7. While the chicken cooks, add soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger to a small saucepan.
8. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
9. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water into a slurry.
10. Add the slurry to the saucepan and stir until the sauce thickens (about 1–2 minutes).
11. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Toss Chicken in Sauce
12. Once the chicken is done, let it rest for 2–3 minutes.
13. Toss the crispy thighs in the soy garlic sauce until evenly coated.
14. Alternatively, brush the sauce on top if you prefer to keep the skin extra crisp.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
15. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
16. Serve hot with steamed rice and optional kimchi or pickled vegetables on the side.
Notes
- Dry the Chicken – Removing moisture from the skin helps achieve that crispiness.
- Don’t Overcrowd – Give the thighs space in the air fryer for even cooking.
- Check Temperature – Use a meat thermometer to ensure juicy, safe-to-eat chicken.
- Thicker Sauce – Add a touch more cornstarch if you want an extra sticky glaze.
- Customize – Want it spicy? Add 1 tsp gochujang or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: Korean