Description
Crispy Air Fryer Hot Honey Chicken Thighs are tender, flavorful, and perfectly air-fried, coated in a seasoned flour mixture and drizzled with a sweet and spicy hot honey sauce. This dish is a delightful addition to any dinner table!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup hot honey (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl and pour the buttermilk over them, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover with plastic wrap and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight.
- Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Dredge the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the refrigerator, letting excess buttermilk drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing to create a crust. Shake off excess flour and set aside.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the Chicken in the Air Fryer: Place the coated chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding.
- Air Fry the Chicken: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes. Flip the chicken and continue cooking for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached 165°F (75°C). If not, continue cooking in 2-minute increments.
- Prepare the Hot Honey: If making homemade hot honey, combine 1/2 cup of honey with 1-2 tablespoons of your favorite hot sauce in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring until combined and warmed through.
- Toss the Chicken in Hot Honey: Transfer the cooked chicken to a large bowl and drizzle the hot honey sauce over it, tossing gently to coat.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer to a serving platter, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Notes
- For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours.
- If cooking a large quantity, consider cooking in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes