Description
Bold, flavorful, and irresistibly juicy, these Air Fryer Gochujang Chicken Thighs bring the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and spicy in every bite. With minimal effort, just marinate the chicken, pop it in the air fryer, and enjoy a delicious meal in no time!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 4 pounds of chicken thighs or drumsticks (bone-in, skin-on for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup of soy sauce (for a savory depth)
- 3 tablespoons of gochujang (Korean red chili paste for a spicy kick)
- 2 tablespoons of honey (to add sweetness and help caramelization)
- 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar (for a touch of tanginess)
- 5 cloves of garlic, minced (for robust flavor)
- 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, minced (adds warmth and spice)
- 1 teaspoon of sesame oil (adds a nutty undertone)
For the Glaze:
- 1/4 cup of honey (you can substitute with maple syrup for a different taste)
- 2 tablespoons of gochujang (adjust based on spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon of water (to adjust consistency)
- 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds (for garnish and extra texture)
Optional Add-Ins & Variations:
- For extra crunch, consider adding 1 cup of chopped green onions, either mixed in the marinade or sprinkled on top just before serving.
- Substitute chicken with 3 to 4 pounds of firm tofu for a vegetarian version, ensuring it’s pressed and cubed.
- If you enjoy bold flavors, toss in 1 tablespoon of Sriracha or chili flakes to the marinade for an extra heat level.
- Incorporate 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoked flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of honey.
- Add sliced bell peppers and onions to the chicken during cooking for more texture and color.
Instructions
Step 1: Gather the Ingredients
Collect the following ingredients: 2 pounds of chicken thighs, ¼ cup of gochujang, ¼ cup of honey, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, 2 cloves of garlic (minced), 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine the gochujang, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything until it forms a smooth marinade.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade. Ensure each piece is well coated with the mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer everything to a zip-top bag. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer or Oven
If using an air fryer, set it to 380°F (193°C). For the oven, preheat it to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is essential for even cooking.
Step 5: Arrange the Chicken in the Air Fryer or Oven
Take the marinated chicken out of the refrigerator. If using an air fryer, place the chicken thighs in a single layer in the basket. If using an oven, arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 6: Cook the Chicken
For the air fryer, cook the chicken for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway. For the oven, bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 7: Check for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. It should reach the safe temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Serve it with rice or vegetables, drizzling any excess marinade on top for extra flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Notes
- Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes to intensify the flavors.
- Air fry skin side down first then flip. This will make the skin more crispy at the end.
- Ensure the chicken thighs are in a single layer, without overlapping, for even cooking in both the air fryer and oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch & Dinner
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 people
- Calories: 358kcal
- Fat: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 45g