Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken

Super flavorful Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken cooks up perfect every time! It’s tender and juicy on the inside with a tasty teriyaki sauce coating the outside. This dish is suitable for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Its standout qualities include quick preparation, minimal cleanup, and a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes.
• Flavorful & Savory: The homemade teriyaki sauce adds an irresistible flavor to the chicken, making it a hit at the dining table.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair this dish with rice, noodles, or fresh vegetables for a complete meal that fits any occasion.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with lean chicken and wholesome ingredients, this recipe is both satisfying and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

To make Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will help you achieve the best results.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Small saucepan
• Whisk

Why These Tools Matter

• Air fryer: Cooks the chicken evenly while keeping it tender and juicy without excessive oil.
• Mixing bowls: Perfect for marinating the chicken and mixing your teriyaki sauce.
• Small saucepan: Used to thicken the marinade into a delicious glaze that coats your chicken nicely.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly for your sauce.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delightful Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken:

For the Chicken

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, (about 1 pound)

For the Teriyaki Sauce

• ½ cup soy sauce
• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, or apple cider vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, (minced)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ cup water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For Garnish

• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions

How to Make Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts into 2-inch pieces. Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a small bowl, combine:
1. ½ cup soy sauce
2. ⅓ cup brown sugar
3. 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, or apple cider vinegar
4. 1 clove garlic, (minced)
5. 1 teaspoon sesame oil
6. ¼ teaspoon ground ginger

Reserve ¼ cup of this sauce and set it aside.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken pieces in the bowl. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.

Step 4: Cook in Air Fryer

Add the marinated chicken pieces to the air fryer basket in a single layer. Close the basket and cook at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 8 minutes. Open the basket, flip the chicken pieces, close it again, and cook for an additional 8 minutes or until cooked through. The safe internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 5: Thicken Sauce

Place the reserved ¼ cup marinade into a small saucepan. In another small bowl, whisk together:
1. ¼ cup water
2. 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Add this slurry to your marinade mixture in the saucepan and whisk over medium heat until it thickens.

Step 6: Serve & Garnish

Baste the cooked chicken with your thickened teriyaki sauce. Serve over rice if desired! Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an added touch of flavor and presentation. Enjoy your delightful meal!

How to Serve Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken

Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you want a simple meal or something a bit more elaborate, there are plenty of options to enhance your dining experience.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken over steamed white or brown rice for a classic pairing. The rice absorbs the flavorful teriyaki sauce beautifully.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use large lettuce leaves to create fresh wraps. Add sliced cucumbers and carrots for crunch, making it a light and healthy option.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Pair with a mix of stir-fried bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. This adds color and nutrition while complementing the chicken’s flavor.

On a Salad

• Toss diced teriyaki chicken onto a bed of mixed greens with cherry tomatoes and avocado. Drizzle with extra sauce for added flavor.

In Tacos

• Fill soft or hard taco shells with teriyaki chicken, shredded cabbage, and a drizzle of lime juice for an exciting twist on tacos.

As a Sandwich

• Layer sliced teriyaki chicken on crusty bread with coleslaw for a delicious sandwich option that’s easy to make and serve.

How to Perfect Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken

To ensure your Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Marinate Well: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 20 minutes. This enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat.
• Preheat Your Air Fryer: Preheating helps achieve an even cook. Set it to 375 degrees Fahrenheit before adding the chicken.
• Do Not Overcrowd: Place chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. This allows hot air to circulate evenly around each piece.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Check for doneness by measuring the internal temperature. It should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain juices and keeps it moist.
• Experiment with Garnishes: Elevate your dish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken

A well-rounded meal is always better with delicious side dishes. Here are some great options to accompany your Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides nutrients and complements the sweet flavors of teriyaki.
2. Fried Rice: A flavorful fried rice made with peas and carrots makes an excellent side, enhancing your meal’s Asian flair.
3. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with vegetables offers a nutritious alternative that’s also filling.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy add sweetness that pairs well with savory teriyaki chicken.
5. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar gives a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
6. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup is comforting and rounds out the meal beautifully with its umami taste.
7. Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach seasoned with garlic provides both health benefits and vibrant color on your plate.
8. Spring Rolls: Crisp spring rolls filled with veggies make for an exciting appetizer or side that balances out the main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the marinade: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can lead to less flavor. Marinate for at least 20 minutes for the best results.
• Crowding the air fryer: Overloading the basket can prevent even cooking. Ensure the chicken pieces are in a single layer for optimal air circulation.
• Ignoring temperature: Cooking at the wrong temperature can affect texture. Always preheat your air fryer to 375°F before cooking.
• Not checking doneness: Failing to check if the chicken is fully cooked can lead to unsafe meals. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
• Forgetting garnish: Skipping sesame seeds and green onions reduces visual appeal. Always garnish for a beautiful presentation.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use medium power and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken?

Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish made by marinating chicken and then cooking it in an air fryer, resulting in tender, juicy meat with a delicious teriyaki glaze.

Can I use other proteins for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or lamb, and still achieve fantastic results with this teriyaki sauce.

How can I customize my Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli during cooking for added nutrition and flavor.

Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer?

Preheating helps ensure even cooking and that your chicken gets crispy on the outside while remaining juicy inside.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free soy sauce in place of regular soy sauce for a gluten-free version of Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. This dish pairs perfectly with rice and veggies, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices!

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