Craving a delicious, healthy, and surprisingly quick dinner? Look no further! This teriyaki chicken air fryer recipe delivers all that and more. Forget complicated cooking methods and lengthy prep times; this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a dinner party. With its perfectly glazed, tender chicken and vibrant flavors, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. It's one of those easy recipes that everyone will love, whether you're a seasoned chef or just starting your homemade cooking journey.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Sesame seeds for garnish, green onions for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken (Optional but Recommended):
In a medium bowl, whisk together the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor. This step is key for tender and flavorful chicken – it allows the marinade to penetrate the meat.
Step 2: Air Fry the Chicken:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren't overcrowded. Overcrowding will lead to uneven cooking. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized and slightly sticky. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired. Serve this delicious teriyaki chicken with rice, quinoa, steamed vegetables, or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal. This makes a fantastic quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Teriyaki Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket: This ensures even cooking and prevents steaming instead of crisping. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer: This guarantees the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust the cooking time: Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model and the thickness of the chicken pieces.
- For extra crispy chicken: Increase the air fryer temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last few minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Spicy Teriyaki: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Pineapple Teriyaki: Add 1/4 cup of diced pineapple to the marinade for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Vegetable Teriyaki: Add your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli florets, bell peppers, or onions, to the air fryer basket during the last 5-7 minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size. However, a general estimate for a 4-serving recipe would be approximately:
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 5-10g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This teriyaki chicken air fryer recipe provides a healthy and delicious meal option. It’s one of the best recipes for those looking for quick and easy dinner ideas that are also packed with flavor and nutrients. Enjoy!