Hey y’all, I’m Chef Josie Thompson—. I’m here to walk you through one of my absolute favorite weeknight wonders: air fryer teriyaki chicken. It’s juicy, crispy, full of bold flavor, and comes together faster than you can say “dinnertime.” If you’ve got an air fryer and a craving for something sweet, savory, and a little sticky in all the right ways—this one’s for you.
In this guide, I’m gonna show you how to make air fryer teriyaki chicken that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and smothered in a rich teriyaki glaze. I’ll walk you through the whole thing—from
Alright, apron on? Let’s get started with why this dish has become such a go-to favorite in my kitchen—and soon, I reckon, yours too.
Table of Contents
The Best Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken Recipe: Crispy, Juicy, and Irresistible
- Total Time: 26–28 minutes
- Yield: 1.5 pounds cooked chicken 1x
Description
This air fryer teriyaki chicken is a weeknight dinner hero—crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and coated in a sticky-sweet, savory glaze. It’s faster than takeout, healthier than deep-frying, and irresistibly flavorful. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding the whole family, this is one air fryer recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, if preferred)
1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for extra crispiness)
Cooking spray or oil for air fryer basket
Optional Homemade Teriyaki Sauce:
1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar or honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 teaspoons cornstarch (mixed with 1 tbsp water)
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl or zip-top bag, combine chicken with teriyaki sauce. Marinate for 30 minutes up to 4 hours (2–3 hours ideal for breasts).
Preheat Air Fryer: Set to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 3–5 minutes.
Optional Crisp Coating: Pat marinated chicken dry and lightly dust with cornstarch. Shake off excess.
Air Fry the Chicken: Lightly oil the basket. Arrange chicken in a single layer. Cook for 7–9 minutes, flip, and cook an additional 7–9 minutes. Chicken is done at 165°F internal temperature.
Glaze It Up: Brush with reserved or fresh teriyaki sauce during the last 2 minutes, or toss after cooking for a sticky finish.
Serve: Let rest 2–3 minutes before serving. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
Swap in chicken breasts for a leaner option, adjusting cook time accordingly.
Want a kick? Stir in sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Great with rice, noodles, or an Asian-style slaw.
For best results, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—cook in batches if needed.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 16–18 minutes
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 290 per serving
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 28g
Why Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken is a Game-Changer
The Air Fryer Advantage: Crispy Teriyaki Chicken Without the Fuss
Air fryers aren’t just a trend—they’re a kitchen revolution. With hot circulating air doing all the heavy lifting, you get that satisfying crunch without deep-frying. When you pair that magic with the bold, umami-rich flavors of teriyaki? You’ve got a weeknight hit that tastes like it took hours, not minutes.
Here’s why this air fryer teriyaki chicken recipe stands out:
- Healthier than takeout – You’re skipping the excess oil while still getting that golden, crispy edge.
- Quick cleanup – No greasy pans, no sticky stovetops—just a basket and maybe some parchment paper.
- Faster cook time – From marination to plate in under 30 minutes? Yes, please.
- Flavor explosion – The sauce caramelizes just enough in the air fryer to create a slightly sticky, deeply satisfying glaze.
If you’re trying to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor, this one checks all the boxes. No wonder air fryer teriyaki chicken has taken over Pinterest boards and dinner tables everywhere.
Why Teriyaki and the Air Fryer Are a Perfect Pair
There’s something magical about how teriyaki sauce reacts under high air fryer heat. Made from soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger, it thickens into a sticky-sweet glaze that clings to every crevice of the chicken.
Here’s what makes this combo a knockout:
- Sweet & savory harmony – That classic umami profile hits every taste bud.
- Crispy caramelization – The sugars in teriyaki sauce create golden edges without burning.
- Universal appeal – It’s picky-eater approved and endlessly adaptable.
Whether you’re serving it up with jasmine rice, noodles, or crunchy Asian slaw, air fryer teriyaki chicken makes every plate a crowd-pleaser.
Craving something crispier? Don’t miss our Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken Wings recipe for a finger-licking twist with extra crunch and bold flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken
Choosing the Right Chicken Cuts: Thighs vs Breasts
When it comes to air fryer teriyaki chicken, the cut you choose makes a difference in both texture and flavor. Here’s a breakdown of the best options:
| Chicken Cut | Texture | Flavor | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boneless Skinless Thighs | Juicy, tender | Rich and fatty | Traditional teriyaki chicken |
| Boneless Skinless Breasts | Lean, firm | Mild | Low-fat, quick meals |
| Chicken Tenders | Soft, kid-friendly | Mild | Quick snacks or lunchboxes |
Thighs are often preferred for their moisture retention and bold taste, especially since they don’t dry out in the air fryer. However, if you’re watching calories or want something leaner, chicken breasts will do the job with a bit more care during cooking. Want variety? Try both—adjusting cook time slightly for thickness.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought Teriyaki Sauce: What to Use
You’ve got options when it comes to saucing up your air fryer teriyaki chicken. A homemade teriyaki sauce gives you full control over ingredients—great if you’re looking to reduce sodium or skip preservatives.
Basic Homemade Teriyaki Sauce Recipe:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar or honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch (mixed with water to thicken)
- Garlic and ginger (freshly grated, optional for flavor boost)
Simmer until slightly thickened and glossy.
Store-bought sauces, like Kikkoman or Soy Vay, save time and still pack plenty of flavor. Just read the label—some are sweeter, others saltier, and a few have added spice.
No matter what sauce you choose, make sure it’s thick enough to cling to the chicken after cooking. You can always reduce it on the stove if needed.
For a simple weeknight dinner that delivers bold flavor fast, don’t miss our popular recipe for air fryer teriyaki chicken thighs.
How to Prepare Chicken for the Air Fryer
Marination Tips: How Long to Marinate in Teriyaki Sauce
If you want air fryer teriyaki chicken that bursts with flavor in every bite, marinating is where the magic begins. Teriyaki marinade infuses the chicken with sweet, savory, and umami-rich depth. But timing is key.
Ideal Marination Times:
| Chicken Cut | Minimum Time | Optimal Time | Max Safe Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thighs | 30 minutes | 4 hours | 12 hours |
| Breasts | 30 minutes | 2–3 hours | 8 hours |
Why not overnight?
Too much time in a salty or acidic marinade can break down the proteins in chicken, turning it mushy. For teriyaki, stick with 2–4 hours for best flavor and texture.
To make things even easier, throw the chicken and sauce into a zip-top bag, massage it a bit, and let it chill in the fridge. That ensures even coating and easy cleanup.
Bonus tip: reserve a little of your marinade (before it touches the raw chicken!) to brush on after cooking for a fresh glaze.
Should You Preheat the Air Fryer?
Yes—you absolutely should.
Preheating the air fryer is a small step that makes a big difference, especially when cooking air fryer teriyaki chicken. Here’s why:
- Better texture: Preheating helps crisp the outer layer instantly.
- Even cooking: A hot basket means no cold spots or soggy centers.
- Shorter cook time: You hit target temperature faster, reducing dryness.
Most air fryers preheat in 2–4 minutes. Just set your device to 375°F while you’re prepping your chicken, and you’ll be good to go.
Pro Tip: Lightly spritz your basket with oil before adding the chicken to prevent sticking and boost crispiness.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken
Exact Cooking Temperature and Timing Guide
Cooking air fryer teriyaki chicken is as simple as set, place, flip, and glaze. Here’s the foolproof way to do it:
Basic Cook Times and Temps:
| Chicken Cut | Temp | Time (Total) | Flip? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boneless Thighs | 375°F | 16–18 min | Yes | Flip halfway for even crisp |
| Boneless Breasts | 375°F | 14–16 min | Yes | Pound thick parts thinner |
| Chicken Tenders | 375°F | 10–12 min | Yes | Quick and perfect for kids |
Instructions:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F.
- Place marinated chicken pieces in a single layer in the basket (don’t overcrowd).
- Cook for 7–9 minutes, flip, then cook another 7–9 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Chicken is done when internal temp hits 165°F using a meat thermometer.
- Optional: Brush with a little extra sauce during the last 2 minutes for caramelization.
Always make sure your chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F, as recommended by the USDA guidelines.
When and How to Add the Teriyaki Sauce
There’s a bit of debate about when to add the sauce, but here’s the chef-approved method that gives the best flavor and texture for air fryer teriyaki chicken:
- Before Cooking? Only if your marinade is thick and low in sugar—otherwise, it’ll burn.
- During Cooking? Optional. Brushing lightly during the last 2 minutes can deepen flavor.
- After Cooking? Yes—this is the golden move. Toss or brush cooked chicken with fresh or reserved sauce for a glossy, sticky finish.
Bonus Tip:
Want extra thickness? Simmer your sauce for 3–5 minutes in a small pan with a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water). It’ll cling like a dream.
Pro Tips for Crispy, Flavor-Packed Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken
Use Cornstarch or Flour for Maximum Crisp
To really elevate the texture of your air fryer teriyaki chicken, lightly coating the chicken with cornstarch before cooking is a game-changer. This simple trick creates that crave-worthy crisp on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
Here’s how to do it right:
- After marinating, pat the chicken dry with a paper towel.
- Dust each piece in cornstarch or a mix of cornstarch and flour.
- Shake off the excess before placing in your air fryer basket.
This light coating reacts to the heat, helping your air fryer teriyaki chicken get that signature golden, crunchy crust without deep frying. It’s perfect for folks who love texture with their flavor.
Flip for Full Flavor and Even Cooking
If you want evenly cooked, beautifully browned chicken, don’t skip the flip. Turning your air fryer teriyaki chicken halfway through ensures even airflow and prevents soggy bottoms.
Always ensure your chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (73.9°C), as recommended by the FDA guidelines.
How to flip like a pro:
- At the halfway point (usually around 7–8 minutes), gently flip each piece.
- Use silicone tongs to protect your coating and avoid tearing the chicken.
- For extra flavor, brush on a bit more teriyaki sauce after flipping to build up that sticky, glossy finish.
This quick step locks in flavor and gives your chicken that irresistible caramelized glaze that defines great air fryer teriyaki chicken.
Variations and Add-Ons to Try
Spice It Up: Sriracha, Chili Flakes, and Sesame Garlic
Want to take your air fryer teriyaki chicken to the next level? Add some heat or aromatic depth with simple tweaks to the sauce. These spicy or savory twists work great with the base recipe and give your chicken a unique profile:
- Spicy Teriyaki Chicken: Add 1–2 teaspoons of sriracha or a dash of red pepper flakes to your teriyaki sauce for a sweet-and-spicy balance.
- Sesame Garlic Teriyaki: Add fresh grated garlic and a teaspoon of toasted sesame oil into your marinade to bring out nutty, bold flavors.
- Honey Teriyaki Glaze: Boost sweetness and stickiness by adding 1 tablespoon of honey to the sauce before glazing your air fryer teriyaki chicken.
These minor additions go a long way in creating variety while keeping your dinner quick and healthy.
Go Beyond Thighs: Wings, Drumsticks, and Tenders
Sure, boneless chicken thighs are a classic choice—but the beauty of air fryer teriyaki chicken is that it works with any cut! Here’s how to branch out:
| Cut | Cook Time (375°F) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Wings | 18–22 mins | Toss with sauce after cooking for max crisp |
| Drumsticks | 20–24 mins | Heavier cut—flip twice for even cooking |
| Chicken Tenders | 10–12 mins | Great for kids or snack-sized meals |
Just be sure to adjust your cook times and use a thermometer to hit the 165°F internal temp safely. Whether you want a family-style dinner or game-day appetizer, these cuts offer big flavor and versatility.
Side Dishes That Pair Perfectly with Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken
Rice, Noodles, and Grains That Soak Up All That Sauce
The rich, sticky glaze on air fryer teriyaki chicken deserves a base that can soak it up beautifully. Here are some tried-and-true favorites that turn your protein into a complete and satisfying dish:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Classic and aromatic, it balances the boldness of the teriyaki.
- Garlic Fried Rice: Adds another layer of flavor and soaks up any leftover sauce perfectly.
- Brown Rice or Quinoa: Nutty and healthy options that still pair well with the sweetness of the glaze.
- Ramen or Udon Noodles: Toss them in a light soy-based dressing or sesame oil for a full noodle bowl experience.
Pro Tip: Spoon extra sauce over your grains right before serving. It pulls the whole dish together.
Veggie Sides That Add Crunch and Color
Balancing the richness of air fryer teriyaki chicken with fresh vegetables is not just smart—it’s delicious. These sides add texture, color, and brightness to your plate:
- Asian Slaw: A mix of shredded cabbage, carrots, and green onions with a sesame-ginger dressing adds a zippy crunch.
- Air-Fried Broccoli: Toss in olive oil, garlic, and soy sauce—done in under 10 minutes.
- Steamed Edamame: A light, protein-rich side with a simple sea salt sprinkle.
- Pickled Cucumbers or Radish: Cut through the sweet sauce with a tangy bite.
You can also toss together a quick cucumber salad with rice vinegar and sesame seeds for something fast and refreshing.
Looking for more bold main courses? Browse our full Lunch & Dinner category for easy recipes that satisfy every craving.
Storage, Meal Prep, and Reheating Tips
How to Store Cooked Teriyaki Chicken the Right Way
When you’ve got leftover air fryer teriyaki chicken, proper storage ensures it stays fresh and flavorful for days. Here’s how to keep it tasting like it just came out of the fryer:
- Cool before storing: Let the chicken rest at room temp for 10–15 minutes before refrigerating.
- Use airtight containers: This prevents moisture loss and keeps the sauce from drying out.
- Separate sauce if possible: Store extra teriyaki glaze separately and reheat together later to refresh flavor.
Storage Life Guide:
| Storage Method | Shelf Life | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator (airtight container) | 3–4 days | Best for weekday meals |
| Freezer (wrapped tightly or vacuum sealed) | 2–3 months | Thaw overnight in fridge before reheating |
Best Way to Reheat Without Drying Out
One of the biggest concerns with reheating air fryer teriyaki chicken is losing that crispy texture. Here’s how to warm it up the right way:
Reheating Instructions:
- Air Fryer: Preheat to 350°F, cook 4–6 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Add a splash of water or extra sauce, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 60–90 seconds.
- Oven: Bake at 350°F for 10–12 minutes if reheating multiple pieces.
Pro Tip: Add a fresh brush of teriyaki glaze before reheating to refresh the flavor and shine.
Whether you’re making it ahead or saving leftovers, these steps will help you enjoy air fryer teriyaki chicken just as much the second time around.
FAQs
How do you cook teriyaki chicken in the air fryer?
Cooking air fryer teriyaki chicken is super simple. After marinating the chicken in teriyaki sauce (ideally for 2–4 hours), preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Place the chicken in a single layer in the basket, and cook for 14–18 minutes depending on the cut. Flip halfway through for even cooking. Once it’s cooked through and hits an internal temp of 165°F, brush or toss it with extra teriyaki glaze for that sticky, flavorful finish.
Can I put raw chicken in the air fryer?
Yes, absolutely. The air fryer is designed to cook raw proteins safely. Just make sure your raw chicken is seasoned or marinated before going into the fryer. When making air fryer teriyaki chicken, placing raw, marinated chicken directly into a preheated fryer is the standard method. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.
Do you add teriyaki sauce before or after cooking chicken?
Both! For best flavor and texture, marinate the chicken in teriyaki sauce before cooking. Then, once the chicken is done, toss or brush it with more fresh sauce to glaze. This gives your air fryer teriyaki chicken that classic sticky coating and deep flavor without burning the sugars in the sauce during the cooking process.
How long do you air fry teriyaki chicken Reddit?
Reddit users often recommend cooking boneless air fryer teriyaki chicken thighs at 375°F for 16–18 minutes, flipping halfway through. Some even suggest adding the glaze during the last 2 minutes for deeper caramelization. Always adjust based on your air fryer model and the thickness of your chicken.
How long should you air fry chicken at 375?
For boneless chicken thighs, cook at 375°F for about 16–18 minutes. For breasts, aim for 14–16 minutes. Always flip at the halfway point and check the internal temperature—it should reach 165°F. These times are ideal for air fryer teriyaki chicken, especially when you’re going for that juicy-meets-crispy balance.
Can you marinate chicken too long in teriyaki sauce?
Yes, you can. While teriyaki isn’t as acidic as citrus-based marinades, it’s still best to avoid over-marinating. For most cuts, 2–4 hours is plenty. More than 12 hours can lead to mushy chicken because the salt and soy sauce in teriyaki begin to break down the meat’s structure. Stick to the safe window for the best air fryer teriyaki chicken results.
Conclusion: Crispy, Sweet, and Oh-So-Satisfying
If you’ve been searching for a flavorful, fast, and foolproof dinner, air fryer teriyaki chicken is your new go-to. From the juicy marinated chicken to the sticky, savory glaze, this recipe brings big flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for the family, meal prepping for the week, or just treating yourself to a healthy version of your favorite takeout, the air fryer delivers every time.
Don’t forget—you can customize the heat, switch up your chicken cuts, or pair it with noodles, rice, or fresh veggie sides. And with the storage and reheating tips we covered, leftovers never go to waste.
For more simple and easy teriyaki chicken recipes, visit our Teriyaki Chicken category for quick meals, flavorful sauces, and weeknight favorites.
Ready to make your air fryer your favorite kitchen sidekick? Start with this teriyaki recipe, and you’ll be hooked.