Sweet Chili Chicken
Equipment
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Air Fryer
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Mixing Bowls
Ingredients
Chicken & Marinade
- 16 oz boneless, skin on chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1½ tbsp sweet chili sauce
Optional Serving
- Steamed rice
Optional Garnishes
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced cucumbers
Instructions
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In a bowl, combine the chicken thighs with soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and sweet chili sauce. Marinate for at least 15 minutes so the flavors penetrate.
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Lightly oil the air fryer basket to prevent sticking. Arrange the marinated thighs in a single layer, leaving space between pieces for air circulation.
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Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 12 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the exterior has a glossy, slightly caramelized finish.
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Let the chicken rest briefly, then slice into thin pieces.
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Serve the sliced chicken over steamed rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced cucumbers if desired.
Video
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.
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Why This Sweet Chili Chicken Is Perfect for Weeknight Dinners
I love this Sweet Chili Chicken because it’s fast to prepare yet full of flavor. The sweet chili sauce creates a sticky, balanced glaze with sweet heat, while soy and oyster sauce add savory, umami depth. Chicken thighs stay juicy under high heat, so after air frying the outside becomes caramelized and the inside remains tender. Served over warm rice, the sauce spreads slightly into the grain, making every bite satisfying.
How the Air Fryer Builds Flavor and Texture
The air fryer circulates hot air around the chicken, producing even caramelization and crisp edges while keeping the interior juicy. It mimics the char you might get from a grill without extra pans, and it does so quickly. Letting the chicken rest briefly before slicing helps the juices redistribute so each slice stays moist.
What You’ll Need To Make Sweet Chili Chicken
Chicken & Marinade
- 16 oz boneless, skin on chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1½ tbsp sweet chili sauce
Optional Serving
- Steamed rice
Optional Garnish
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced cucumbers
How to Make Sweet Chili Chicken
Combine the chicken thighs with soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and sweet chili sauce. Marinate for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors soak in.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil and arrange the thighs in a single layer.
Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 12 minutes, until cooked through and the exterior is glossy and slightly caramelized.
Allow the chicken to rest, then slice into thin pieces.
Serve the sliced chicken over steamed rice and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced cucumbers if you like.
Tips and Variations
If you prefer extra char, increase the heat to 400°F (190°C) and watch closely until the edges reach your desired level of browning.
For a bolder chili kick, add 1 tbsp of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
To crisp the skin further, cook skin-side up so the fat renders and the surface crisps evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless skinless chicken thighs?
Yes. Skin-on thighs add flavor and help hold the marinade, but skinless thighs work fine and will still be tasty.
Why marinate the chicken first rather than spooning sauce on while cooking?
Marinating allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and helps form a sticky glaze on the surface that caramelizes in the air fryer — something that’s harder to achieve by adding sauce only at the end.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. This dish stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, making it great for meal prep.
What to Make Next
If you want more chicken ideas, try the Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken, Garlic Chicken Stir Fry, or Mongolian Ground Beef for other quick meals.