Sweet Chili Glazed Chicken Thighs - Air Fryer Recipe

Introduction

Can juicy chicken thighs really be crispy, sticky-sweet, and guilt-free—all in under 30 minutes? Absolutely. Meet your new favorite weeknight dinner: Sweet Chili Glazed Chicken Thighs – Air Fryer Recipe.

This bold and flavorful dish delivers restaurant-quality results at home using simple pantry staples and an air fryer. Sweet chili sauce, with its balanced tang and mild heat, caramelizes into a glossy glaze while the air fryer crisps the skin to perfection—no deep frying required.

Whether you’re new to air frying or a seasoned pro, this dish is an effortless game-changer packed with flavor, texture, and protein.

Ingredients List

Main Ingredients:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Sweet Chili Glaze:

1/3 cup sweet chili sauce
1 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium)
1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional for extra stickiness)
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Substitutions:

Boneless thighs: Reduce cook time by 3–5 minutes.
No sweet chili sauce? Use a mix of sriracha + honey + vinegar.
Add-ons: Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, or cilantro.

Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 18–22 minutes
Total Time: 28–32 minutes

➡️ That’s 35% faster than oven-baked versions—and with extra crispiness!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and prep

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels for maximum crisp. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Step 2: Air fry the chicken

Place thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket. Cook for 12 minutes. Flip, then cook an additional 8–10 minutes or until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown.

Step 3: Make the glaze

While the chicken cooks, mix sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, vinegar/lime juice, honey, and pepper flakes in a small saucepan. Simmer over low heat for 2–3 minutes until thickened slightly.

Step 4: Glaze and finish

Brush the cooked chicken thighs generously with the glaze. Return to the air fryer for 2 minutes to caramelize. Optional: Brush again before serving for a double glaze layer.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 thigh with glaze)

Calories: ~310
Protein: 22g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 440mg

💡 Sweet chili sauce adds carbs—use low-sugar versions for keto-friendly swaps.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Skinless thighs or chicken breasts for leaner options.
Air-fry without oil to cut down fat.
Low-sugar sweet chili sauce or sugar-free sriracha blend for low-carb versions.
Gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for gluten-sensitive diets.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over jasmine rice, cauliflower rice, or stir-fried veggies.
Add a crisp cucumber salad with rice vinegar for a refreshing contrast.
Turn leftovers into wraps or lettuce cups with shredded carrots and extra glaze.
Pair with roasted broccoli or sesame noodles for a complete Asian-inspired meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowding the air fryer basket: Leads to steaming, not crisping.
Skipping the glaze simmer: It helps the sauce cling better and adds depth.
Using wet chicken skin: Always pat dry for max crisp.
Underseasoning: The chicken base needs bold seasoning before glazing.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5–6 minutes to retain crispness.
Freeze for up to 2 months—thaw overnight, then air fry to reheat.
Meal prep tip: Glaze can be made ahead and stored separately for up to a week.

Conclusion

These Sweet Chili Glazed Chicken Thighs – Air Fryer Recipe are everything: crispy, juicy, sticky, and bursting with flavor in every bite. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend cravings—with none of the deep-fry guilt.

🔥 Try it today, and let us know your twist in the comments below! Subscribe for more easy air fryer meals.