Sticky chicken thighs in an air fryer with crispy finish
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Emma Lawson | 
14.07.2025

Air Fryer Sticky Chicken Recipe

This air fryer sticky chicken recipe is perfect for anyone craving a delicious, quick meal. Our air fryer sticky chicken ensures rich flavours with a beautifully crispy skin finish. Whether you prefer sticky chicken thighs air fryer style or want to try air fryer honey soy chicken, this recipe caters to all. Experience the savoury delight of air fryer sweet sticky wings, made healthier without losing flavour. It’s Asian-inspired, easy to prepare and perfect for any meal.
Prep Time
10m
Cook
20m
Total Time
30m
Yield
serves 4
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Chicken
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Chicken

What You’ll Need for Air Fryer Sticky Chicken

Essential Ingredients for Sticky Chicken

  • 4 chicken thighs
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ginger, grated
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Sesame seeds

Sprinkle sesame seeds over the chicken after cooking for a nutty flavour and added texture. This goes well with the sticky soy glaze, providing a nice contrast to the sweet and umami profile of the air fryer honey soy chicken.

Use Fresh Garlic

Fresh garlic enhances the flavour of the air fryer sticky chicken, giving it a more aromatic profile. The pungent taste of fresh garlic pairs perfectly with the sweet and sticky sauce, elevating the overall dish. If you're preparing air fryer asian glazed chicken, fresh garlic is indispensable.

Steps to Cook Air Fryer Sticky Chicken

To start making air fryer sticky chicken, simply follow these steps.

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 180°C.
  2. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil to form a marinade.
  3. Add chicken and coat well; let it marinate for at least 10 minutes.
  4. Place chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  5. Cook for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through and basting with extra marinade.
  6. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 75°C before serving.

Avoid Overcooking

Ensure you don't overcook the chicken to keep it moist. Basting with extra marinade enhances the stickiness and flavour.
Honey soy chicken wings made in air fryer basket

Nutrition for Air Fryer Sticky Chicken

Calories: 320 | Protein: 25g | Carbs: 12g | Fat: 18g

Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Sticky Chicken

Serve your air fryer sticky chicken alongside a fresh salad or steamed rice. For a complete Asian-inspired meal, pair it with some air fryer teriyaki chicken or air fryer sweet sticky wings.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Sticky Chicken

This sticky chicken recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and savoury. The air fryer makes it convenient and quick, while enhancing the crispiness of the skin. It’s a versatile dish that can be tailored to your taste whether you’re after air fryer honey soy chicken or sticky chicken thighs air fryer style. Visit airfryerrecipe.co.uk for more creative twists on this classic dish and many more delicious air fryer recipes.

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Air Fryer Sticky Chicken FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

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Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you need to adjust the cook time. Ensure it's fully cooked before serving.
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How do I make the chicken extra crispy?

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Cook in a single layer and baste halfway through for an extra crispy skin.
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Can I use different cuts of chicken?

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Absolutely, feel free to use chicken breast, thighs, or wings for this air fryer sticky chicken recipe.
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What sauce goes well with this?

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A sticky soy glaze or teriyaki sauce complements it beautifully.
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