Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs (Air Fryer) (2026 Viral Recipe). This recipe has gone viral for a reason: it’s quick, easy, and incredibly delicious.

Below you will find the step-by-step instructions to make this amazing dish at home.
Looking for the best Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs (Air Fryer) recipe? You are in the right place!
Introduction
Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this mouthwatering recipe for Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs cooked to perfection in an air fryer! As the sweet and savory aroma of honey garlic wafts through your kitchen, you’ll be transported to a world of culinary bliss. This simple yet impressive dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create juicy, flavorful chicken thighs that will impress even the pickiest eaters. And the best part? Your air fryer does all the hard work, ensuring a crispy exterior and tender interior without the need for deep-frying.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get started on this sweet and savory adventure!
Ingredients
- 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
To make these heavenly honey garlic chicken thighs, follow these easy steps:
1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and minced garlic until well combined.
3. Rinse the chicken thighs under cold water, pat them dry with paper towels, and place them in a single layer on a plate or tray.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken thighs, then sprinkle salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Brush the honey-garlic mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken thigh, making sure they’re well coated.
6. Load the chicken thighs into your air fryer basket in a single layer (you may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer).
7. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You may need to flip the chicken halfway through cooking, but check on it frequently to ensure even browning.
8. Remove the cooked chicken from the air fryer and garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
9. Serve hot, with your favorite sides or as a standalone main course.

Pro Tips for Success
To take your honey garlic chicken thighs to the next level, keep these pro tips in mind:
* For extra crispy skin, pat the chicken dry with paper towels before cooking and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
* Adjust the amount of honey and garlic to suit your taste preferences. Some people may prefer a stronger or sweeter flavor profile.
* Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket – cook the chicken in batches if necessary – to ensure even cooking and browning.
* Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as paprika or cumin, to add unique flavors to the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: While you can use chicken breasts, they may not retain the same level of juiciness and flavor as bone-in, skin-on thighs. If you do choose to use breasts, cook them for 8-10 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Q: What if I don’t have an air fryer? Can I cook these chicken thighs in the oven?
A: Yes! You can achieve similar results by baking the chicken thighs in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Keep an eye on them to ensure even cooking and browning.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While it’s best to cook the chicken thighs immediately before serving, you can prepare the honey-garlic mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply brush it over the chicken just before cooking.
There you have it – a mouthwatering recipe for Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs cooked to perfection in an air fryer! With its sweet and savory flavors, crispy exterior, and tender interior, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. So go ahead, get cooking, and indulge in the delightful world of honey garlic chicken thighs!
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💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Air Frying
- Space is Key: Don’t overcrowd the basket for max crispiness. 🌬️
- Preheat: A preheated air fryer gives better results. 🔥
- Shake: Flip halfway for even browning. 🔄
💡 Master Your Air Fryer: Pro Tips
- Airflow: Don’t crowd the basket. 🌬️
- Preheat: 3-5 mins for best results. 🔥
- Shake: Flip halfway for even browning. 🔄
Why You Should Use an Air Fryer for This Recipe
Using an air fryer is a game-changer for this recipe. Unlike traditional frying, it uses up to 95% less oil, making your meal significantly healthier without sacrificing that delicious crunch. Plus, it is faster than a conventional oven and doesn’t heat up your entire kitchen.
Pro Tips for Perfection
- Don’t Overcrowd: Always cook in a single layer to ensure the hot air circulates evenly.
- Preheat: Taking 3 minutes to preheat your air fryer ensures the food starts cooking immediately for a crispier texture.
- Shake It: Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning on all sides.
How to Store and Reheat
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until they are crispy again. Do not use a microwave, as it will make them soggy.
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