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Air Fryer Hot Honey Chicken Thighs Recipe

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  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 24 minutes
  • Total Time: 34 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Description

These Air Fryer Hot Honey Chicken Thighs are a perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors, featuring crispy skin and juicy meat. The chicken is seasoned with a smoky spice rub, air fried to perfection, and finished with a sticky hot honey glaze that adds a delightful kick. Ideal for a quick yet flavorful weeknight dinner, this recipe serves four and delivers tender, delicious chicken with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (6 to 8 ounces each)
  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Hot Honey Glaze

  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons hot sauce
  • 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels. Drizzle the olive oil over them and rub to coat all sides evenly to help the seasoning adhere and promote crispy skin.
  2. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Sprinkle this seasoning mix generously over both sides of each chicken thigh for a flavorful crust.
  3. Air Fry the Chicken: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Place the chicken thighs skin-side up in the air fryer basket, making sure they are spaced apart. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes, rotating the basket halfway through cooking (avoid flipping the thighs) until the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F; for maximum tenderness, aim for 175°F to 185°F.
  4. Make the Hot Honey Glaze: While the chicken cooks, whisk together honey, melted butter, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl until smooth.
  5. Glaze and Finish Cooking: Brush the hot honey glaze onto the cooked chicken thighs. Return them to the air fryer and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to set the glaze. Reserve some glaze for serving as a dipping sauce.
  6. Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 3 to 5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute. Serve the chicken with the remaining hot honey glaze on the side for dipping.

Notes

  • Ensure chicken thighs are patted dry to achieve crispy skin in the air fryer.
  • Do not flip the chicken halfway through cooking; just rotate the basket to promote even cooking.
  • Adjust the amount of hot sauce in the glaze to your preferred spice level.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness for food safety and best texture.
  • Leftover glaze can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently before serving.

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Find it online: https://athleticcupping.com/air-fryer-hot-honey-chicken-thighs-recipe/