Sticky Lemon Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer
Welcome to a delightful exploration of an easy-to-make dish that perfectly combines the tanginess of lemon with the satisfying succulence of chicken thighs, all made simple with the use of an air fryer. This sticky lemon chicken thighs recipe caters to busy UK home cooks seeking convenience without sacrificing deliciousness.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Zest and juice of 2 lemons
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, and olive oil. Mix well to create a sticky, flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for a deeper flavour.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) and allow it to preheat for about 5 minutes.
- Air Fry the Chicken: Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, skin side up. Air fry for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the skin is crispy and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 75°C or 165°F).
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
This sticky lemon chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a simple green salad for a light option, or alongside roasted vegetables for added warmth. For a heartier meal, jasmine rice or couscous can complement the vibrant lemony flavours.
Tips for Success
- Marinate with Care: The key to succulent and flavourful chicken is allowing enough time for marination. If you're short on time, a quick 30-minute soak will suffice, but a longer marination is always better.
- Do Not Overcrowd: Ensure that the chicken thighs are well spaced in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and prevent the skin from becoming crispy.
- Keep an Eye on Cooking Time: Air fryers can vary, so keep an eye on the chicken towards the end of the cooking time. Make adjustments if necessary to prevent overcooking.
Conclusion
The combination of convenience and deliciousness makes this air-fried sticky lemon chicken thighs a winner in any kitchen. Embrace the ease of air frying, relish the flavours of lemon-soaked chicken, and elevate your meal game without wasting time. Enjoy this brilliant dish and impress your family and friends with minimal effort and maximum delight!