Air Fryer Korean Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the delightful fusion of sweet and savory with these Air Fryer Korean Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs. Marinated in a rich soy garlic sauce, these juicy chicken thighs are cooked to crispy perfection in your air fryer, making them a quick and convenient meal option for busy weeknights. Serve them with steamed rice and vegetables for a wholesome and satisfying dinner that will impress your family and friends!

Created by

Chelsea Payne

Last updated on 2025-12-01T11:16:25.046Z

This dish is inspired by traditional Korean flavors, combining soy sauce and garlic to create a savory marinade that enhances the natural taste of the chicken thighs.

A Taste of Korea at Home

Korean cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors and comforting dishes, and these Air Fryer Korean Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs embody that spirit perfectly. The harmonious blend of soy sauce, honey, and garlic creates a deliciously sticky marinade that captures the essence of Korean barbecue. This recipe not only brings you the taste of Korea but also allows you to whip up a satisfying meal in the comfort of your own kitchen.

By utilizing an air fryer, you can achieve that coveted crispy skin without the hassle of deep frying. The intense heat circulates around the chicken, ensuring an even cook while locking in the juicy tenderness of the thighs. This method not only saves time but also reduces the amount of oil needed, making this dish a healthier alternative to traditional frying.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you are preparing a casual family dinner or hosting a gathering with friends, these Air Fryer Korean Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs are versatile enough to suit any occasion. Easily adjustable for larger groups, this recipe can be doubled or even tripled, making it an ideal choice for parties. Pair these chicken thighs with simple sides like steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad to create a complete meal that will impress every palate.

Moreover, the marinating process is so simple that it can be done ahead of time, leaving you more time to enjoy your guests. As the flavors deepen, the chicken becomes even more delicious, ensuring that your meal will be memorable. When food is delightful and preparation is a breeze, everyone wins!

Tips for the Best Results

To achieve optimal flavor and texture with your Air Fryer Korean Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs, consider investing time in the marinating phase. While a minimum of 30 minutes is recommended, allowing the chicken to marinate for one to two hours enhances the flavor significantly. If time allows, consider marinating overnight for a truly spectacular taste. Remember to always let the chicken rest after cooking; this allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender meat.

Additionally, while air fryers are all quite similar, some models may vary in terms of cooking time and temperature. It’s always best to monitor the chicken's internal temperature using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the safe steaming level of 165°F (74°C). This will guarantee the juiciness and safety of your dish, allowing you to serve it with confidence.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons minced garlic
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon ground ginger

For the Chicken

4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Sesame seeds, for garnish
Chopped green onions, for garnish

Mix all the marinade ingredients well before combining them with the chicken.

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, sesame oil, and ground ginger. Mix until well blended.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a ziplock bag or a shallow dish, and pour the marinade over the chicken. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for better flavor.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Remove chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Season with salt and black pepper. Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side up, and cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer, garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve hot with rice and vegetables.

Enjoy your meal!

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Air Fryer Korean Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs, you’re in luck! These chicken thighs make excellent leftovers and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain that delicious crunch. Alternatively, you can also enjoy them cold in salads or sandwiches for a quick, tasty lunch.

For longer storage options, these chicken thighs can be frozen. After cooking, allow them to cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat, and you'll have a quick meal that still delivers on flavor!

Customizing Your Recipe

This recipe for Air Fryer Korean Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs is incredibly adaptable to suit your taste preferences. If you're looking to spice things up, consider adding a tablespoon of gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the marinade for some heat. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices, such as a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of lime juice for an added zing.

For those who prefer a less sweet marinade, simply reduce the amount of honey or replace it with a sugar substitute. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility, allowing you to put your spin on a classic dish while still retaining the essence of Korean flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time as chicken breasts may cook faster than thighs.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.