This crispy Asian air fryer sesame chicken is a wonderful addition to any family dinner. It’s simple, quick, and packed with rich flavors everyone will enjoy. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in no time, making it a go-to recipe for Melissa and families everywhere.
Why You Will Love This Asian Air Fryer Sesame Chicken
This recipe is not only quick, but it’s also incredibly tasty. With minimal prep and easy-to-find ingredients, you can whip it up without any fuss. The air fryer gives the chicken a delightful crispiness while keeping it tender inside. Plus, it’s a meal that even the kids will love.
How to Make Asian Air Fryer Sesame Chicken
Creating this dish is as easy as mixing a few ingredients together and letting the air fryer do its job. The process is straightforward, making it perfect for beginner cooks who want to impress their families. You’ll savor this flavorful meal in just 20 minutes!
What You Need
- chicken thighs
- soy sauce
- sesame oil
- honey
- garlic (minced)
- ginger (grated)
- sesame seeds
- green onions (for garnish)
Step-by-Step
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
- Add the chicken thighs to the mixture and marinate for at least 10 minutes.
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
- Place marinated chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re not overcrowded.
- Cook for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.
- Remove from the air fryer, sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions, and serve with the remaining sauce.
How to Serve Asian Air Fryer Sesame Chicken
This dish is fantastic on its own, but you can easily serve it over a bed of rice or noodles. Pair it with steamed broccoli or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. It’s a great option for family gatherings or a simple weekday dinner.
How to Store Asian Air Fryer Sesame Chicken
To store any leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for 3 to 4 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. For reheating, warm it in the air fryer for a few minutes until heated through.
Recipe Tips
- Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 10 minutes to maximize flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket for the best crispiness.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of honey for sweetness based on your preference.
- You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a lighter version.
- Keep an eye on the chicken in the air fryer to prevent overcooking.
Variations & Swaps
- For a spicy kick, add some chili paste to the marinade.
- Swap the chicken for tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Use maple syrup in place of honey for a different sweetness.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a few hours in advance or overnight in the fridge. Then you can cook it just before serving for a fresh-tasting dish.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container. It’s best to eat it within two months for optimal taste.
How do I reheat the leftovers?
The air fryer is perfect for reheating to maintain that crispy texture. Just place the chicken in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes until heated through.
Can I substitute soy sauce?
Yes! You can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a lower-sodium alternative.
What sides go well with this chicken?
Try serving it with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a simple cucumber salad for a nice crunch.
Asian Air Fryer Sesame Chicken
Ingredients
For the chicken marinade
- 1 pound chicken thighs Boneless and skinless recommended
- 1/4 cup soy sauce Can substitute with tamari for gluten-free option
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil Adds a rich flavor
- 2 tablespoons honey Adjust for sweetness preference
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon ginger (grated) Fresh ginger recommended
For serving
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds For garnish
- 2 stalks green onions Sliced for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
- Add the chicken thighs to the mixture and marinate for at least 10 minutes.
Cooking
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
- Place marinated chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re not overcrowded.
- Cook for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.
- Remove from the air fryer, sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions, and serve with the remaining sauce.
