Juicy teriyaki chicken thighs cooked in the air fryer
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Emma Lawson | 
16.07.2025

Teriyaki Chicken in the Air Fryer

Indulge in the deliciousness of teriyaki chicken prepared effortlessly in the air fryer. This recipe provides you with all the flavour of traditional teriyaki chicken without the need for excessive oil, resulting in a healthier, crispy skin finish. With a homemade teriyaki sauce made from a soy sauce marinade, garlic, and ginger base, your air fryer teriyaki chicken thighs will be the star of your meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this dish is best served with steamed rice or a fresh salad.
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 Teriyaki Chicken

Essential Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp mirin
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ginger, minced
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch

Sesame Seeds

Sprinkle sesame seeds over the finished chicken for an extra layer of flavour and presentation. It adds a delicate nutty taste and a lovely crunchy texture. Toss the seeds in a dry pan for a few minutes before serving to make them even more fragrant.

Why Use Fresh Garlic and Ginger

Using fresh garlic and ginger roots for your homemade teriyaki sauce provides a depth of flavour that dried or powdered variations simply can't match. Fresh ingredients often have a zingy quality that enhances the dish, making your teriyaki sauce vibrant and aromatic. Additionally, these ingredients are excellent for promoting good health and add a fundamental layer of authenticity to your Asian cooking.

Steps to Cook Teriyaki Chicken in Air Fryer

Follow these instructions to master the perfect teriyaki chicken in your air fryer.

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F.
  2. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, mirin, sugar, garlic, and ginger to prepare the sauce.
  3. Add the chicken thighs to the sauce and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
  4. Place the marinated chicken in the air fryer basket and cook for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
  5. In a small pan, add the leftover marinade and cornstarch slurry, then simmer until thickened.
  6. Brush the thickened sauce over the chicken in the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Avoid Overcooking

Remember that smaller pieces like teriyaki chicken bites air fryer style cook faster. Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 75°C to prevent overcooking.
Close-up of teriyaki chicken with glaze browning in the air fryer

Nutrition for Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken

Calories: 220 | Protein: 24g | Carbs: 10g | Fat: 8g

Serving Teriyaki Chicken

Serve your teriyaki chicken alongside simple steamed jasmine rice and a side of sautéed broccoli. Alternatively, pair it with a fresh cucumber salad to enhance the dish's flavours and offer a refreshing contrast.

Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Making teriyaki chicken in the air fryer offers a wonderfully crisp skin and tender meat, perfect for any meal. At airfryerrecipe.co.uk, we guide you through creating delicious air fryer recipes, making your cooking experience both enjoyable and straightforward. Enjoy healthier and faster meals with this convenient kitchen tool. Explore more recipes and tips by browsing our site!

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Teriyaki Chicken FAQ

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

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Yes, boneless chicken breasts work well, keeping the cooking time similar, ensuring you achieve a juicy result.
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How do I make the homemade teriyaki sauce?

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Combine soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of cornstarch slurry for an authentic and tasty sauce.
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What temperature should I set for the air fryer?

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Set your air fryer to 380°F for the best crispy finish on the chicken.
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Can I prepare teriyaki chicken strips in the air fryer?

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Absolutely, slice the chicken into strips for quicker cooking and ensure you marinate them well beforehand.
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