For a dish that’s bursting with flavor and offers the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and crispy, these Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs are a must-try. Featuring tender chicken thighs with a caramelized sticky glaze, this recipe is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. I found this recipe on I Wuv Cooking, and it has quickly become a household favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These chicken thighs are seasoned to perfection, air-fried or oven-roasted for crispy skin, and then coated in a sticky, flavorful glaze made from sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, and oyster sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress.
Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs Recipe
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 6 bone-in chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- 1 tsp lemon pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
For the Sticky Glaze:
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
Instructions
- Preheat Your Cooking Method:
- Oven Method: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Air Fryer Method: Preheat to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel to ensure the skin becomes crispy. In a small bowl, mix avocado oil, lemon pepper, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning mix evenly over the chicken thighs. - Cook the Chicken:
- Air Fryer: Place chicken skin-side down in the air fryer. Cook at 375°F for 15 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
- Oven: Roast the chicken skin-side down for 20 minutes at 400°F, flip, and roast for another 10 minutes.
- Make the Sticky Glaze:
While the chicken cooks, whisk together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, and oyster sauce in a large bowl. - Baste the Chicken:
Baste the chicken generously with the sticky glaze multiple times during cooking (at least 4 times) to ensure it becomes caramelized and flavorful. Continue cooking until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). - Optional: Broil for Crispiness:
For an extra crispy finish, turn on the broiler for the last 2–3 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning and achieve a perfectly caramelized skin. - Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the chicken from the oven or air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve over jasmine rice or alongside your favorite side dishes.
Tips for Perfect Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for perfect doneness.
- Customize the Glaze: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat or a splash of lime juice for a tangy twist.
- Side Pairings: Serve with steamed vegetables, a crisp green salad, or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
- Don’t Skip the Broil: Broiling in the final minutes adds that irresistible crispiness and caramelization.
Why You’ll Make This Again
These Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs are the perfect combination of crispy, sticky, and full of flavor. They’re easy to make and versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides. Whether roasted or air-fried, the results are guaranteed to please.
Did you try this recipe? Share your thoughts in the comments, and check out more amazing dishes on I Wuv Cooking. Don’t forget to share this recipe with anyone who loves bold, sweet, and savory flavors!
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