Looking for a flavorful and easy dinner recipe? These Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs are the ultimate combination of sweet, spicy, and crispy! Made in an air fryer or oven, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. With a rich, caramelized glaze and juicy, tender chicken, you won’t need takeout ever again!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Simple steps make this a hassle-free dinner recipe.
- Versatile Cooking: Choose between an air fryer or oven.
- Deliciously Crispy: Achieve a perfectly caramelized glaze.
- Restaurant-Quality: Save money while enjoying homemade goodness.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 6 bone-in chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
For the Sticky Glaze:
- ½ cup sweet chili sauce
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your oven or air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel for extra crispiness.
2. Season the Chicken
- In a small bowl, mix avocado oil, lemon pepper, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken thighs evenly with the seasoning mix.
3. Cook the Chicken
- Air Fryer: Place chicken skin-side down and cook at 375°F for 15 minutes.
- Oven: Line a baking tray with parchment paper and roast skin-side down at 400°F for 20 minutes. Flip and roast for another 10 minutes.
4. Prepare the Sticky Sauce
- In a large bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil.
5. Glaze the Chicken
- Baste the chicken generously with the sticky sauce during cooking, at least 4 times, for a caramelized finish.
- Continue cooking until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional)
- For an extra crispy finish, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end.
7. Serve & Enjoy!
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Pair with jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Substitutions & Variations
- Oil: Use olive or vegetable oil instead of avocado oil.
- Lemon Pepper: Substitute with lemon zest and black pepper.
- Garlic Powder: Swap with fresh minced garlic.
- Soy Sauce: Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: Make your own using honey, red pepper flakes, and garlic.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Refrigeration: Store cooled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Wrap in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 weeks.
Reheating:
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
- Air Fryer: Reheat for 3-5 minutes at 350°F to regain crispiness.
Top Tips for Perfect Sweet Chili Chicken
✔ Crispy Skin: Always pat the chicken dry before seasoning. ✔ Caramelization: Broil for 2 extra minutes for a sticky, crispy finish. ✔ Even Glazing: Baste the chicken multiple times for the best flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long should I marinate the chicken?
A: This recipe doesn’t require marination, but you can marinate for 1-2 hours for deeper flavor.
Q: What’s the recommended internal temperature for chicken thighs?
A: Chicken thighs should be cooked to 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Q: How can I achieve an ultra-crispy finish?
A: Broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
This Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs recipe is the perfect dinner recipe that’s easy, delicious, and packed with flavor. Whether you air fry or roast, the sticky, spicy, and crispy combination will leave you craving more. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a restaurant-style meal at home!