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Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken

A quick and healthy recipe for flavorful teriyaki chicken cooked in an air fryer, perfect for busy families.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 16 minutes
Total Time 36 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Japanese
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the chicken
  • 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (approx. 1 pound) The base of this protein-packed meal.
For the marinade
  • ½ cup soy sauce Adds saltiness and depth of flavor.
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar Offers sweetness to balance the saltiness.
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar Helps enhance the flavors and tenderize the chicken.
  • 1 clove garlic, minced Adds an incredible aroma and taste.
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil Provides a nutty richness.
  • ¼ teaspoon ground ginger A hint of warmth complements the other flavors.
  • ¼ cup water Used to thicken the sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch A vital thickener for that perfect glossy sauce.
For garnish
  • Sesame seeds and chopped green onions Elevates the dish visually and with extra flavor.

Method
 

Prepare the Chicken
  1. Cut the chicken breasts into 2-inch pieces.
Make the Marinade
  1. In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar (or apple cider), minced garlic, sesame oil, and ground ginger.
  2. Reserve ¼ cup of this sauce for later.
Marinate the Chicken
  1. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken pieces in a large bowl.
  2. Cover and refrigerate for 20 minutes.
Cook the Chicken in the Air Fryer
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
  2. Add the marinated chicken pieces to the basket, ensuring they’re spaced evenly.
  3. Cook for 8 minutes.
Flip and Continue Cooking
  1. After the first 8 minutes, open the basket and flip the chicken pieces.
  2. Close the basket and cook for an additional 8 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Thicken the Sauce
  1. In a small saucepan, combine the reserved ¼ cup marinade.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together water and cornstarch to create a slurry.
  3. Add this to the saucepan and whisk over medium heat until thickened.
Baste and Serve
  1. Baste the cooked chicken with the thickened teriyaki sauce.
  2. Serve over rice and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Notes

Marinating overnight can enhance the flavor even more. Always check on the chicken a few minutes before the cooking time is up to ensure it doesn’t overcook. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.