If you crave a speedy yet totally satisfying takeout-style dinner, this Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken is a total game-changer! Juicy chicken bites caramelized in sticky-sweet teriyaki sauce, all done in a fraction of the time you’d spend waiting for delivery—what’s not to love?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Weeknight Wonder: This Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken is ready in less than an hour—perfect for those busy evenings where flavor is non-negotiable.
- Sticky-Savory Goodness: The air fryer makes the teriyaki glaze irresistibly sticky and caramelized, without any fuss or mess.
- Takeout Made Healthier: Using lean chicken and less oil, you’ll satisfy that takeout craving with better-for-you ingredients.
- Family Favorite: The sweet and savory flavors appeal to all ages, and you can easily adjust the toppings for extra flair.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how a handful of simple staples can unlock such crave-worthy flavor. Each ingredient plays a starring role, from the tender chicken to that irresistibly glossy teriyaki sauce.
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs or chicken breast: Thighs add juicy richness, while breasts make it a leaner option—pick what you love!
- Teriyaki sauce: Go for your favorite bottled variety, or make your own for extra bragging rights; this is what makes those savory-sweet flavors pop.
- Chopped scallions (optional): A sprinkle on top brings freshness, color, and a lovely gentle bite.
- Sesame seeds (optional): For the finishing touch and that classic Asian-inspired crunch.
Variations
What I adore about this Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken recipe is how easy it is to customize! You can switch things up based on your preferences, dietary needs, or simply what’s in your fridge.
- Swap the Protein: Try it with diced tofu or shrimp for a delicious twist that works for different diets.
- Add Vegetables: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for an all-in-one meal bursting with color.
- Low-Sodium Sauce: Use a reduced-sodium teriyaki if you’re watching your salt intake—it’s just as flavorful!
- Spicy Kick: Drizzle with sriracha or sprinkle on red pepper flakes if you like things a little fiery.
How to Make Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken
Step 1: Prep and Cut the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken dry (so it gets extra golden and not watery in the air fryer). Cut it into 1–1.5-inch cubes; bite-sized pieces ensure every bit gets coated in sauce and cooks quickly.
Step 2: Marinade for Magic
Pop those chicken cubes into a bowl and pour in the teriyaki sauce. Give everything a good toss—your hands work best! Cover and let the flavors meld for at least 30 minutes (up to 1 hour in the fridge is even better). This soak makes each morsel incredibly tender and flavorful.
Step 3: Air Fry for Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F and give the basket a quick spray with non-aerosol cooking spray. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer (work in batches if you need to), and cook for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway, until the chicken is caramelized and registers 165°F inside. The sizzle in the air fryer makes that sauce extra glossy!
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Once the chicken is done, pile it onto your favorite plate or bowl. Shower with chopped scallions and sesame seeds for a little crunch and pop of green. Now comes the best part—dig in while it’s piping hot!
Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken
- Cut Even Cubes: Slicing the chicken into uniformly sized pieces ensures everything cooks at the same speed, so you don’t end up with undercooked or dry bites.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: To get that lovely caramelized glaze, arrange the chicken in a single layer and cook in batches if needed—crowding traps steam and softens the edges.
- Sauce Selection: Don’t be afraid to splurge on a high-quality teriyaki sauce or whisk up your own for next-level depth—taste is everything here!
- Marinate Longer for Deeper Flavor: If you have time, let the chicken marinate the full hour (or even overnight!) so the sauce really soaks in.
How to Serve Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken
Garnishes
Don’t skip those scallions and sesame seeds—they’re the secret to making this Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken look and taste like it came straight from your favorite Japanese spot. A quick sprinkle at the end adds a burst of color, gentle oniony crunch, and toasty nuttiness that make every bite pop.
Side Dishes
This chicken is a total chameleon, snuggling up beautifully to fluffy steamed rice, brown rice, or jasmine rice for a simple meal. For a lighter plate, serve it over sautéed greens, zoodles, or a crisp Asian-inspired slaw. Stir-fried veggies or a quick cucumber salad round things out with crunch and zing.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling playful, skewer the cooked pieces on sticks for a fun party appetizer or tuck them into lettuce wraps for a light, finger-friendly bite. For dinner parties, arrange them over rice in colorful bowls with rainbow veggies and a drizzle of extra sauce for a gorgeous DIY teriyaki bowl experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken stores wonderfully! Pop it in an airtight container in the fridge, and you’ll have quick lunches or snackable protein ready for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen a bit as it sits—hello, meal prep magic.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze cooked teriyaki chicken for future cravings. Let it cool completely, then seal in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using, and it’ll be just as tantalizing as day one.
Reheating
To reheat, the air fryer or the oven is your best friend—just a few minutes at 350°F will re-crisp the edges and revive that saucy glaze. If you’re in a hurry, a quick zap in the microwave works too, though the chicken will be softer than when freshly made.
FAQs
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Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken?
Absolutely! Chicken breast works wonderfully—just watch the cooking time and check for doneness early, since breast tends to cook a bit faster and can dry out if overcooked in the air fryer.
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What’s the best store-bought teriyaki sauce to use?
Look for a teriyaki sauce that’s thick, glossy, and balances sweet and savory. Brands like Kikkoman and Soy Vay are always reliable, but feel free to experiment and find your personal favorite.
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Do I need to flip or shake the chicken during air frying?
Yes—a quick shake or turn halfway through cooking ensures every piece of Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken develops that gorgeous, caramelized coating all over, not just on one side.
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Can I make Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken ahead for meal prepping?
Definitely! Prep several batches and store in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches, tasty rice bowls, or protein-packed salads all week long.
Final Thoughts
I hope you feel inspired to give this Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken a spot in your weeknight rotation—it’s genuinely one of those recipes that brings both comfort and excitement to the table. So break out your air fryer, grab your favorite teriyaki sauce, and let the deliciousness begin!
Print
Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Air Frying
- Method: Air Frying
Description
This Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken recipe is a quick and flavorful dish that can be easily prepared for a delicious meal. Tender chicken pieces marinated in teriyaki sauce and air fried to perfection, garnished with scallions and sesame seeds.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1–1.25 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or chicken breast
- 2/3 cup teriyaki sauce
- Chopped scallions – optional for garnish
- Sesame seeds – optional for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken dry, cut into cubes, and place in a bowl.
- Coat the chicken: Pour teriyaki sauce over chicken, toss to coat, and marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Cook: Preheat air fryer to 400°F, spray basket with cooking spray, add chicken in a single layer, and cook for 12-15 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Serve: Garnish cooked chicken with scallions and sesame seeds before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approximately 300 kcal
- Sugar: Varies based on teriyaki sauce
- Sodium: Varies based on teriyaki sauce
- Fat: Varies based on chicken cut
- Saturated Fat: Varies based on chicken cut
- Unsaturated Fat: Varies based on chicken cut
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: Varies based on teriyaki sauce
- Fiber: Varies based on ingredients
- Protein: Varies based on chicken cut
- Cholesterol: Varies based on chicken cut
