Hoisin chicken is all about that sticky, savoury-sweet glaze — deep, rich and a little smoky. The air fryer keeps the chicken juicy while the hoisin caramelises. Here's how.
Key takeaways
Q: How do you make hoisin chicken in an air fryer?
A: Air fry chicken at 200°C (400°F) for 18–20 minutes, brushing on a hoisin glaze in the last few minutes.
Q: What's hoisin sauce?
A: A sweet, savoury Chinese sauce of fermented soy, garlic and spices.
Times & temperatures
| Cut | Temp | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Thighs | 200°C / 400°F | 18–20 min |
The recipe
Air Fryer Hoisin Chicken
Ingredients
- 8 chicken thighs
- 3 tbsp hoisin sauce
- Soy, honey, garlic, ginger
- Sesame, spring onion
Method
- Air fry chicken at 200°C for 14 min.
- Brush with the hoisin glaze.
- Cook 4–6 minutes more, glazing again.
- Check 74°C; top with sesame.
Tips
- Glaze near the end so the hoisin doesn't burn.
- Thighs stay juiciest.
- A little honey boosts the sticky glaze.
Frequently asked questions
How do you make hoisin chicken in an air fryer?
Air fry chicken at 200°C for 18–20 minutes, brushing on a glaze of hoisin, soy, honey, garlic and ginger in the last few minutes so it caramelises.
What is hoisin sauce?
A thick, sweet and savoury Chinese sauce made from fermented soybeans, garlic, vinegar and spices — rich and slightly smoky.
Why glaze at the end?
Hoisin is sugary and catches easily, so it goes on near the end to turn sticky and glossy rather than burning.