Air Fryer Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs

Air Fryer Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs –I’m always looking for new chicken recipes, and this air fryer brown sugar chicken thighs is definitely a winner!

It’s easy to make, and the sweet and sticky glaze is delicious. The chicken turns out nice and crispy, and I love that it doesn’t require any oil. This would be perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Give it a try!

Air Fryer Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs-Last night, I reached into my freezer and grabbed a chicken, cut it up, seasoned it, and my family had a great dinner; today, I am giving you a very easy Brown Sugar Chicken Thigh Recipe that can be used with any cut of chicken, whether it tenders, legs, drumsticks, split breast, breast or thighs. It’s easy and only requires a few ingredients!

With only a few ingredients, you can make a great and easy chicken dinner, and it’s so much easier than traditional fried chicken because you don’t need to worry about breaking it. It’s a simple rub on the chicken.

Air Fryer Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs

Introducing a delectable dish that combines the succulence of tender chicken thighs with the rich sweetness of brown sugar, all prepared effortlessly in your trusty air fryer. These Air Fryer Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs are a harmonious blend of savory and sweet, offering a delightful taste sensation that will captivate your taste buds.

With the convenience of air frying, you’ll achieve a perfectly caramelized, sticky-sweet glaze on the outside while the chicken remains juicy and flavorful. Get ready to savor a culinary masterpiece that’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Air Fryer Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs Recipe

This is one of my favorite air fryer chicken dishes since you need so little, and it cooks perfectly every time. It is also one of my go-to dishes since I never know what to do with chicken, so I added a few ingredients to a rub, rubbed it on, and placed it into the air fryer, and the results were excellent!

The Best Recipe For Brown Sugar Air Fryer Chicken

This is so easy, and this recipe will work on any chicken part. I cut a chicken and then air-fried it, but you can use any chicken cut. This is a great one on chicken thighs and legs!

In my area, the chicken thighs and legs go on sale for about 99 cents a pound, making for an economical and budget-friendly meal.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs

With only a few ingredients, you can have this delicious recipe paired with a salad for a complete meal.

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

• Chicken thighs: Tender and juicy chicken thighs are the stars of this dish.
• Olive oil: Adds a touch of richness and helps the brown sugar glaze adhere to the chicken.
• Brown sugar: Provides the sweet, caramelized flavor that makes this dish irresistible.
• Salt and pepper: Seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the chicken.
• Garlic powder: Adds a savory, aromatic element to the dish.
• Onion powder: Contributes a subtle, sweet onion flavor that complements the brown sugar glaze perfectly.

How to Make Air Fryer Brown Sugar Chicken

Here is a brief overview of the recipe. The full recipe is below:

Preheat the Chicken:

Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees (190°C) for a few minutes to ensure it’s hot and ready for cooking. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to create a seasoning blend.

Season the Chicken:

Brush the olive oil evenly over the chicken thighs to help the seasoning adhere. Sprinkle the seasoning blend over both sides of each chicken thigh, ensuring they are well coated.

Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the top side of each chicken thigh. The sugar will create a sweet glaze as it cooks.

Air Fry the Chicken:

Place the seasoned chicken thighs, skin-side up, in the preheated air fryer basket. Make sure they are not overcrowded to allow for proper air circulation. Cook the chicken thighs at 375 degrees F (190°C) and set cook time for 25-30 minutes. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size of the thighs and your air fryer model.

Halfway through the cooking time, open the air fryer and carefully flip the chicken thighs to ensure even cooking and browning.

Serving:

The chicken thighs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the skin is crispy and browned. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

Serve your Air Fryer Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs hot, garnished with fresh herbs, or a drizzle of extra brown sugar glaze if desired.

Pro Tips

To achieve the most delicious and perfectly cooked Air Fryer Brown Sugar Chicken, consider these pro tips:

• Use Bone-In, Skin-On Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs provide the best flavor and moisture. The skin crisps up beautifully in the air fryer, and the bone helps keep the meat juicy.
• Thoroughly Dry the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels before seasoning. Removing excess moisture helps the skin become crispy.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the seasoning. Be sure to coat both sides of the chicken thighs evenly with the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
• Preheat the Air Fryer: Allow your air fryer to preheat for a few minutes before cooking. Preheating ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and starts crisping up right away.
• Brush with Oil: Brushing the chicken with olive oil not only helps the seasoning stick but also aids in browning the skin and creating a nice texture.
• Apply Brown Sugar Carefully: Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the top side of the chicken thighs. Avoid putting too much on, as it can cause the sugar to burn.
• Check doneness with a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Flip for Even Cooking: Halfway through the cooking time, flip the chicken thighs to ensure both sides brown evenly. This step helps achieve a uniform, crispy skin.
• Watch Closely Towards the End: Keep a close eye on the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent the sugar from burning. If needed, shield the chicken with foil.
• Let It Rest: Allow the chicken thighs to rest briefly after cooking. This allows the juices to be redistributed, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.
• Garnish Creatively: Get creative with garnishes. Fresh herbs, a drizzle of extra brown sugar glaze, or a squeeze of lemon juice can enhance the dish’s presentation and flavor.

By following these tips, you’ll master the art of making Air Fryer Brown Sugar Chicken with a perfect balance of savory and sweet and achieve tender, crispy results every time.

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe?

While boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used, bone-in, skin-on thighs are recommended for the best flavor and texture.

What can I substitute for brown sugar if I want a lower-sugar option?

You can use a sugar substitute like erythritol or a brown sugar alternative if you prefer a lower-sugar option.

How do I prevent the brown sugar from burning during cooking?

To prevent the sugar from burning, sprinkle it evenly and not too thickly on the chicken thighs. Additionally, watch the chicken closely during the last few minutes of cooking and shield it with foil if necessary.

Can I use other seasonings or spices to customize the flavor?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and spices to create a flavor profile that suits your taste. Smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or herbs like rosemary can be great additions.

Is it necessary to flip the chicken during cooking?

Flipping the chicken thighs halfway through cooking is recommended to ensure even browning and crispiness on both sides.

Can I make this recipe with chicken breasts instead of thighs?

While chicken breasts can be used, remember that they may not stay as moist as thighs. Adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking and drying them out.

How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Can I prepare the chicken in advance and reheat it in the air fryer?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can reheat the chicken in the air fryer at a lower temperature for a few minutes to maintain its crispiness.

What side dishes go well with Air Fryer Brown Sugar Chicken?

This chicken pairs nicely with various sides, such as roasted vegetables, a simple green salad, or garlic mashed potatoes.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the air fryer or oven for the best results.

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