- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). This ensures the chicken starts cooking immediately and gets a nice, crispy exterior.
- Season the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and promotes a crispy texture.
- In a bowl, toss the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and olive oil until evenly coated.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for about 10 minutes, then flip the chicken over and cook for another 10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Cooking times may vary based on the size of the chicken pieces and the type of air fryer.
- Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- While the chicken is cooking, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, ginger, and apple cider vinegar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- If using the cornstarch slurry, add it to the saucepan and stir continuously until the sauce thickens slightly, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce:
- Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a bowl. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken, tossing to ensure each piece is well coated.
- Serve:
- Serve the honey garlic chicken hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions or parsley if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Perfect Honey Garlic Air Fryer Chicken:
- Flipping is Key: Flipping the chicken halfway through cooking ensures it cooks evenly and gets crispy on all sides.
- Sauce Consistency: Adjust the thickness of the honey garlic sauce to your liking by adding more or less cornstarch slurry.
- Resting Time: Let the cooked chicken rest for a few minutes before tossing it in the sauce. This helps the chicken retain its juices, making it more tender and flavorful.
Enjoy your Honey Garlic Air Fryer Chicken, a dish that promises a delightful mix of flavors and textures, all made with the convenience of your air fryer!