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Spicy Sesame Chicken Recipe

4.4 from 102 reviews

Spicy Sesame Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make air fryer recipe featuring tender boneless chicken thighs marinated in a savory blend of oyster sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and spicy chili oil. Perfectly cooked in an air fryer for a crispy exterior and juicy interior, garnished with fresh green onions for a vibrant finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 8 boneless chicken thighs, skin-on or skinless

Marinade

  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 stalks green onions, white and green parts separated (green part for garnish)
  • 2 tablespoons sambal or chili oil (Momofuku Chili Crisp recommended)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade: Mince the garlic and cut the green onions, separating the white and green parts. Use the green parts later for garnish.
  2. Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat.
  3. Trim the chicken: Trim any excess fat from the boneless chicken thighs to ensure even cooking.
  4. Combine the ingredients: In a bowl, combine the oyster sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, white parts of green onions, and sambal or chili oil. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
  5. Marinate the chicken: Toss the chicken thighs in the marinade until fully coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  6. Prepare the air fryer basket: Line the air fryer basket or tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
  7. Arrange the chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs skin side up on the lined air fryer tray, ensuring they’re spaced evenly.
  8. Air fry the chicken: Cook at 375°F for 20 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crisping.
  9. Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to verify the internal temperature has reached at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
  10. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the cooked chicken with the green parts of the green onions before serving for a fresh, colorful touch.

Notes

  • The chicken thighs can be skinless or skin-on based on preference; skin-on yields a crispier texture.
  • Adjust the amount of chili oil or sambal based on your desired spice level.
  • Marinating for longer (up to 2 hours) will enhance flavor intensity.
  • Ensure the air fryer basket is not overcrowded to allow proper air circulation and even cooking.
  • Use a meat thermometer for accuracy; cooking times may vary slightly depending on the air fryer model.

Keywords: spicy chicken, sesame chicken, air fryer chicken, easy dinner, Asian chicken recipe, boneless chicken thighs, spicy sesame sauce