Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken

This air fryer chicken teriyaki is a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. The juicy chicken is coated in a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze, cooked to perfection in the air fryer.

Finding quick and delicious dinner ideas makes my life so much easier, especially after a long day. That’s why I love making air fryer chicken teriyaki. It’s a recipe that has quickly become one of my go-to meals. It satisfies my cravings without spending hours in the kitchen.

This dish is a basic marinated chicken breasts in the air fryer with an added glaze. The crispy outer layer of the chicken, combined with the tangy and sweet teriyaki sauce, is an irresistible combination that my whole family loves. It’s one of those recipes that tastes like you spent a lot of time on it, even though it’s super simple and quick to prepare.

It doesn’t matter if I’m serving it over a bed of rice, paired with steamed veggies, or as a chicken wrap sandwich, it always hits the spot. The best part is that the air fryer does all the work, leaving me with more time to relax or focus on other things. If you’ve been looking for a flavorful, no-fuss dinner idea, this chicken recipe will become your new favorite!

Items Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make air fryer chicken teriyaki:

• Chicken thighs (boneless, skinless): Chicken thighs are juicy and tender, making them ideal for air frying and ensuring a flavorful, moist dish.
• Teriyaki glaze (bottled or homemade): The teriyaki glaze adds a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, enhancing the chicken’s taste without overpowering it.
• Sesame seeds (optional): Sesame seeds provide a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor, elevating the texture and presentation of the dish.

Ways To Customize

Here are some easy ways to customize this air fryer chicken teriyaki recipe:

• Add spices: Experiment with adding a pinch of garlic powder, ginger, or red pepper flakes to the teriyaki glaze for extra depth of flavor or a hint of heat.
• Switch up the protein: You can swap chicken thighs for boneless skinless chicken breasts, or even try the recipe with tofu or pork for a different twist.
• Try a different glaze: If you’re in the mood for a variation, swap out the teriyaki glaze for a honey mustard sauce, soy sauce-based marinade, or a barbecue glaze.
• Add veggies: Toss some sliced bell peppers, onions, or broccoli into the air fryer alongside the chicken for a one-pan meal that’s both tasty and nutritious.
• Make it spicy: Add a drizzle of sriracha or chili paste to the glaze for a spicy kick to balance the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce.
• Garnish differently: Instead of sesame seeds, try topping the chicken with chopped green onions, cilantro, or crushed peanuts for extra flavor and texture.

How To Make It

Preheat the air fryer at 400°F and set timer for 20 minutes.

Storage

To store air fryer chicken teriyaki, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.

When you’re ready to reheat, the best way is to warm it in the air fryer again at 350°F for about 3 to 5 minutes to maintain its crispy texture. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave, but the chicken may lose some of its crispiness. If you prefer, you can also reheat it on the stovetop in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.

Helpful Hints

Here are some helpful hints for making air fryer chicken teriyaki:

• Pat the chicken dry: Before adding the teriyaki glaze, pat the chicken dry with paper towels to help it crisp up better in the air fryer.
• Avoid overcrowding: For the best results, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Give the chicken enough space for the hot air to circulate, ensuring even cooking and crispiness.
• Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature; it should reach 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked.
• Baste halfway through: To get an even coating of the teriyaki glaze, baste the chicken halfway through cooking for extra flavor.
• Let it rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before cutting into it to lock in the juices and keep it tender.

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer chicken teriyaki pairs wonderfully with various sides to complete your meal. For a simple and classic choice, serve it over steamed white or brown rice. The fluffy rice soaks up the sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, making every bite more delicious. You could also opt for cauliflower rice if you’re looking for a low-carb alternative that still provides a satisfying base for the chicken.

If you want to add some veggies to the mix, consider pairing the chicken with roasted zucchini or steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers. The slightly crispy, savory chicken complements the natural sweetness of the vegetables, creating a balanced and healthy meal. For a more vibrant dish, toss the veggies in a little sesame oil or soy sauce before serving to tie the flavors together.

For something a bit different, try serving your teriyaki chicken in a sandwich or wrap like my Greek chicken gyros. Use pita bread or a tortilla to create a quick and easy handheld meal. Add some crunchy lettuce, thinly sliced cucumbers, and a drizzle of extra teriyaki glaze for a delicious fusion of flavors and textures. This makes for a quick lunch or dinner option, especially if you are repurposing leftovers.

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