Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer

If you are searching for a dinner recipe that is bold, sticky, juicy, and incredibly easy, look no further than Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer. This dish brings together crispy chicken skin, tender meat, and a glossy sweet-savory glaze that tastes like it came straight from your favorite restaurant — all made right at home in under 30 minutes.

The air fryer has completely changed the way we cook chicken, and this recipe is a perfect example of why. With minimal prep, simple pantry ingredients, and unbeatable flavor, Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer are ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even entertaining guests when you want something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen.

In this in-depth guide, we will cover everything you need to know about making the best Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer, including expert tips, variations, substitutions, storage instructions, nutrition insights, and frequently asked questions. Whether you are new to air frying or a seasoned pro, this recipe is guaranteed to become a regular in your meal rotation.

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Why You’ll Love Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer

There are countless reasons why Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer stand out from other chicken recipes, but here are a few that make this dish truly special:

• Fast and convenient – Ready in just 25 minutes from start to finish

• Crispy skin without deep frying – The air fryer delivers restaurant-quality results

• Juicy, flavorful meat – Chicken thighs stay moist and tender

• Bold sticky glaze – Sweet chili sauce combined with savory umami flavors

• Minimal cleanup – One air fryer basket, one bowl

• Family-friendly – Sweet with optional heat, easily adjustable

If you have ever struggled with dry chicken or bland flavors, Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer will completely change your expectations.

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What Makes Air Fryer Chicken Thighs So Good?

Chicken thighs are naturally higher in fat than chicken breasts, which makes them ideal for air frying. When cooked in an air fryer, the circulating hot air renders the fat under the skin, resulting in:

• Crispy, golden skin

• Juicy, flavorful meat

• Even cooking without flipping constantly

Unlike oven baking, which can take much longer, the air fryer locks in moisture while still achieving caramelization. This is especially important when making Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer, because the glaze needs high heat to thicken and cling to the chicken without burning.

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Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer: Recipe Overview

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

• Servings: 8 chicken thighs

• Course: Air Fryer

• Cuisine: Air Fryer

• Calories: 383 per serving

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Ingredients for Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer

One of the best things about Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer is that the ingredient list is short, simple, and packed with flavor.

Chicken

• 8 bone-in chicken thighs

• 1 tablespoon avocado oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Sticky Sweet Chili Glaze

• ½ cup sweet chili sauce

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

These ingredients work together to create a glaze that is sweet, salty, savory, and slightly nutty — the perfect balance for crispy chicken thighs.

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Equipment Needed

To make Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer, you only need:

• Air fryer

• Pastry brush (for basting)

That’s it. No complicated tools or special equipment required.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures even cooking and helps the chicken skin crisp properly from the start.

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Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels.
This step is essential for achieving crispy skin. Moisture on the skin will cause steaming instead of crisping, which can prevent the glaze from sticking later.

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Step 3: Season the Chicken

Rub the chicken thighs with avocado oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. Make sure to massage the seasoning into both the skin and underside of the chicken.

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Step 4: Air Fry (First Cook)

Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket.
Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes.

This initial cook renders the fat and prepares the surface for the sticky glaze.

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Step 5: Make the Sticky Sweet Chili Glaze

While the chicken is cooking, combine the following in a small bowl:

• Sweet chili sauce

• Soy sauce

• Oyster sauce

• Sesame oil

Whisk until smooth and well combined. This glaze is what gives Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer their signature flavor.

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Step 6: Baste & Finish Cooking

Flip the chicken thighs skin-side up and baste generously with the sticky sweet chili glaze.

Return the chicken to the air fryer and cook for 10 more minutes, basting at least three times during cooking. This layering technique builds flavor and creates a glossy, caramelized finish.

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

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Step 7: Optional Extra Crisp

For extra crispy skin, broil for the final 2–3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning. This step is optional but highly recommended if you love ultra-crispy chicken.

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Step 8: Rest & Serve

Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.

Serve Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer over jasmine rice, coconut rice, or alongside roasted vegetables.

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Tips for the Best Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer

• Dry skin = crispy skin – Always pat the chicken dry

• Baste multiple times to build sticky layers of flavor

• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket

• Use a meat thermometer to prevent overcooking

• Watch closely during broiling to avoid burning the glaze

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Variations and Customizations

Make It Spicy

Add red pepper flakes, sriracha, or chili garlic sauce to the glaze.

Make It Honey Sweet

Replace half of the sweet chili sauce with honey for a deeper sweetness.

Boneless Chicken Thighs

Reduce cooking time by 3–5 minutes if using boneless thighs.

Gluten-Free Option

Use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce.

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What to Serve with Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer

• Jasmine rice or fried rice

• Steamed broccoli or green beans

• Asian-style slaw

• Roasted sweet potatoes

• Garlic noodles

These sides balance the sweetness and enhance the overall meal.

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Storage and Reheating

Storage

Store leftover Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating

Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until heated through and crispy.

Print

Nutrition Information (Approximate, Per Serving)

• Calories: 383 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 9 g

• Protein: ~27 g

• Fat: ~26 g

This dish offers a satisfying balance of protein and flavor while remaining relatively low in carbs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in the Oven?

Yes. Bake at 400°F (205°C) for 35–40 minutes, basting frequently. However, the air fryer delivers superior crispiness.

Can I use chicken breasts?

You can, but chicken thighs are recommended for juiciness and flavor.

Is sweet chili sauce very spicy?

No, it is mildly sweet with subtle heat, making it family-friendly.

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Why This Recipe Works Every Time

The success of Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer comes down to:

• High heat for crisping

• Fat-rich chicken thighs

• Layered basting technique

• Balanced sweet-savory glaze

Each element works together to create a dish that is both foolproof and crave-worthy.

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Final Thoughts

Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer are the perfect example of how simple ingredients and smart cooking techniques can produce extraordinary results. This recipe delivers everything you want in a weeknight meal: speed, flavor, crispiness, and versatility.

Whether you are cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or impressing guests, this dish never disappoints. The sticky glaze, juicy meat, and crispy skin make it unforgettable, while the air fryer keeps the process fast and mess-free.