Description
These air fryer sticky maple chicken thighs are sweet, savory, and perfectly caramelized with a glossy maple soy glaze. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, they make an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Zest of 1/2 lemon
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 tbsp maple syrup
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1/2 tsp chilli flakes, optional
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water (30 ml)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs, lemon zest, 1 tbsp soy sauce, and 1 tbsp maple syrup. Toss until evenly coated and marinate for 30 minutes if time allows.
- Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly crisped.
- Meanwhile, melt the butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in 4 tbsp maple syrup, 3 tbsp soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chilli flakes. Simmer for 3–4 minutes.
- Mix the cornstarch with the water to form a slurry, then stir it into the glaze. Cook for 1–2 minutes until thickened and glossy.
- Add the cooked chicken thighs to the glaze and toss until evenly coated. Serve hot with rice and vegetables if desired.
Notes
- For extra caramelization, air fry the chicken for an additional 2–3 minutes before glazing.
- Serve with steamed rice, broccoli, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reduce the chilli flakes or omit them entirely for a milder flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fry
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 24 g
- Sodium: 1180 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 42 g
- Cholesterol: 165 mg
