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Crispy Honey Garlic Butter Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

crispy honey garlic butter air fryer chicken thighs - featured image
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Juicy, crispy chicken thighs cooked in the air fryer with a sweet and savory honey garlic butter glaze. Perfect for a quick, flavorful dinner with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4–6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds/900g)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (56g)
  • 3 tablespoons pure honey (60ml)
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce (15ml)
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice (15ml)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Pat dry the chicken thighs thoroughly with paper towels to ensure crispy skin (about 5 minutes).
  2. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Add red pepper flakes if using. Let rest while preparing the glaze.
  3. In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Stir in honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Whisk until combined and fragrant (2-3 minutes), being careful not to burn the garlic.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  5. Place chicken thighs skin-side down in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding. Cook for 10 minutes.
  6. Flip the chicken thighs skin-side up using tongs. Brush or spoon half of the honey garlic butter glaze over the skin. Cook for another 10-12 minutes.
  7. Brush the remaining glaze over the chicken skin and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to set the glaze and crisp the skin further.
  8. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C). If not, cook in 2-minute increments until done.
  9. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Patting the chicken skin dry is essential for crispiness. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to prevent steaming. Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness. The glaze can be prepared up to two days ahead and warmed before use. For dairy-free, substitute butter with coconut or avocado oil, though the glaze will be less rich. If glaze is too thin after cooking, simmer gently to thicken before serving. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken thighs, honey garlic chicken, crispy chicken, easy dinner, quick chicken recipe, honey garlic butter glaze

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