Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken with Homemade Sauce is a comforting yet refined dish where tender chicken meets a glossy, savory-sweet glaze infused with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Warm, aromatic, and deeply satisfying, this recipe balances umami richness with subtle sweetness and a gentle caramelized finish. Ideal for busy weeknight meals, family dinners, or when you crave a homemade Asian-inspired dish without excess oil, it pairs beautifully with steamed rice or crisp vegetables.
Servings – Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken with Homemade Sauce
Servings: 3–4 servings
Time Required for Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken with Homemade Sauce
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 14–16 minutes
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Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients for Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken with Homemade Sauce
Main Ingredients
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700 g boneless, skin-on chicken thighs (or skinless if preferred), trimmed
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5 ml neutral oil (for brushing, optional)
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5 g sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
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Fresh coriander or scallions, finely sliced (optional, for garnish)
Homemade Teriyaki Sauce
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80 ml soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
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60 ml water
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40 g brown sugar (or honey for a softer sweetness)
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15 ml rice vinegar
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10 ml mirin (optional, enhances gloss and sweetness)
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10 g fresh ginger, finely grated
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2 cloves garlic, finely minced
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5 ml sesame oil
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8 g cornstarch mixed with 15 ml cold water (slurry)
Step-by-Step Instructions – How to Make Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken with Homemade Sauce
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Prepare the flavor base.
In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, water, brown sugar, rice vinegar, mirin, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. Whisk gently to dissolve the sugar; meanwhile, the aroma should turn warm and savory. -
Simmer and thicken.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer. Then, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to a glossy, spoon-coating consistency. Remove from heat and set aside. -
Preheat and season.
Preheat the air fryer to 190°C. Pat the chicken dry thoroughly; moreover, dryness helps achieve crisp edges. Lightly brush with oil if using, and season lightly with pepper. -
Air fry the chicken.
Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket, skin-side down first. Cook for 8 minutes, then flip and cook for another 6–8 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 74°C and the surface is golden. -
Glaze and caramelize.
Next, brush a generous layer of homemade teriyaki sauce over the chicken. Return to the air fryer for 1–2 minutes, watching closely, until the glaze bubbles and lightly caramelizes without burning. -
Rest and slice.
Remove the chicken and let it rest for 3 minutes. Then, slice against the grain for maximum tenderness. -
Finish and serve.
Meanwhile, warm any remaining sauce gently. Drizzle over the sliced chicken, garnish with sesame seeds and herbs, and serve hot.
Variations of Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken with Homemade Sauce
With meat: Substitute chicken thighs with 600 g salmon fillets; reduce final glazing time to avoid overcooking.
Vegetarian version: Use extra-firm tofu (400 g), pressed and cubed; air fry until crisp, then glaze generously.
Creamier version: Additionally, whisk 15 ml coconut milk into the sauce after thickening for a silky finish.
Spicier version: Add 5–10 ml chili paste or a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce for gentle heat.
Seasonal swaps: In addition, glaze roasted pineapple or bell peppers with the sauce and serve alongside the chicken.
Tips for Perfect Results – Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken with Homemade Sauce
Cooking technique: Avoid overcrowding the basket; proper airflow ensures even browning and juicy meat.
Enhancing aroma: Fresh ginger and garlic make a noticeable difference—use them generously for depth.
Glaze control: However, add the sauce only at the end to prevent burning due to sugars.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently to preserve moisture.
Freezing: Freeze cooked, unglazed chicken for up to 2 months; glaze fresh after reheating for best texture.
With its balance of precision and comfort, Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken with Homemade Sauce delivers restaurant-style flavor using simple techniques and pantry staples. Furthermore, the air fryer ensures crisp edges with tender interiors, while the homemade sauce brings warmth, shine, and unmistakable depth. Finally, whether served for a cozy family dinner or a quick yet elegant meal, this dish promises consistent, aromatic success every time.
