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Sweet Thai Chili Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer: A Deliciously Effortless Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and tasty dinner option, Sweet Thai Chili Chicken Thighs cooked in the air fryer should be at the top of your list. This dish combines the rich, savoury flavours of succulent chicken thighs with the vibrant sweetness and gentle heat of Thai chili sauce, resulting in a meal that’s irresistibly delicious. Plus, using an air fryer means you can indulge in crispy, juicy chicken without the need for excess oil, making it a healthier option.

Ingredients

To serve four people, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 4 tablespoons of sweet Thai chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of ginger powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh coriander/cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Preparing the Chicken

1. Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine the sweet Thai chili sauce, soy sauce, honey (if using), garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.

2. Coat the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. For maximum flavour, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes if time permits, but even a quick 10-minute soak will enhance the taste.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (about 400°F) for around 5 minutes. This ensures that the chicken will cook evenly and develop a crispy exterior.

Cooking the Chicken

1. Arrange in the Basket: Place the marinated chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. If your air fryer is smaller, you may need to cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding.

2. Cook: Air fry the chicken thighs at 200°C (400°F) for about 18-20 minutes. Flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crisping on both sides.

3. Check for Doneness: The chicken is ready when its juices run clear, and the internal temperature reaches at least 75°C (165°F). Should you find the chicken isn’t fully cooked, simply return it to the air fryer for an additional few minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Once your Sweet Thai Chili Chicken Thighs are perfectly cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This helps the juices redistribute for extra tenderness.

To serve, plate the chicken thighs and drizzle any remaining marinade over the top for added flavour. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander and serve alongside lime wedges for a zesty kick.

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or a crisp green salad, making for a delightful meal that highlights the festive flavours of Thai cuisine.

Why Choose the Air Fryer?

Beyond the delectable taste, cooking chicken thighs in an air fryer offers several benefits. The hot circulating air cooks the chicken quickly while ensuring a lovely crispness on the outside without drying out the inside. Plus, cleaning up is a breeze — most air fryer baskets are dishwasher safe!

Conclusion

Sweet Thai Chili Chicken Thighs made in the air fryer is a wonderful addition to your weekly meal roster. With minimal preparation and cooking time, you can serve up a delightful dish that’s packed with flavour and sure to impress your family or guests. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to savour the scrumptious results of this air fryer wonder!