Sticky chicken is all about that glossy honey-soy glaze clinging to juicy thighs or wings. The air fryer crisps the chicken, then you glaze near the end so the sugars caramelise without burning. Here's how.
Key takeaways
Q: How do you make sticky chicken in an air fryer?
A: Air fry chicken at 200°C (400°F) for 18–22 minutes, brushing on a honey-soy glaze in the last few minutes.
Q: Why glaze at the end?
A: The sugary glaze burns if added too early.
Times & temperatures
| Cut | Temp | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Thighs | 200°C / 400°F | 18–22 min |
| Wings | 200°C / 400°F | 18–20 min |
The recipe
Air Fryer Sticky Chicken
Ingredients
- 8 chicken thighs
- 3 tbsp honey, 3 tbsp soy
- Garlic, ginger, sriracha
- Sesame, spring onion
Method
- Air fry chicken at 200°C for 14 min.
- Brush with the honey-soy glaze.
- Cook 4–6 minutes more, glazing again.
- Check 74°C; top with sesame.
Tips
- Glaze near the end so it doesn't burn.
- Double-glaze for an extra-sticky finish.
- Thighs stay juiciest.
Frequently asked questions
How do you make sticky chicken in an air fryer?
Air fry chicken at 200°C for 18–22 minutes, brushing on a honey-soy glaze in the last few minutes so it caramelises into a sticky coating.
Why glaze the chicken at the end?
The sugar in a honey or soy glaze burns easily, so it's brushed on near the end to caramelise into a sticky finish without scorching.
Can you make it spicy?
Yes — add sriracha, chilli flakes or gochujang to the glaze for a sweet-and-spicy sticky chicken.