This Air Fryer Peanut Chicken is a tasty treat! It’s crispy on the outside and juicy inside, with a yummy peanut sauce that gives it a nutty flavor that you’ll love.
Cooking in the air fryer makes it quick and easy, plus, less oil means less mess! ❤️ I can’t resist pairing it with rice or veggies for a satisfying meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless thighs for their juicy texture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken breasts work too, but they may be slightly drier. You can also use tofu for a vegetarian twist!
Pear as a Peanut Butter Alternative: You can replace the peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a different nutty flavor. If allergies are a concern, tahini is another great option without the nutty nature.
Soy Sauce: If you’re gluten-free, tamari is a perfect substitute that maintains a similar flavor. Coconut aminos is a milder alternative that works too!
Hoisin Sauce: If you can’t find hoisin, try using a mix of soy sauce, sugar, and a touch of vinegar for a similar sweet and tangy flavor. A dash of barbecue sauce can also do the trick!
How Do You Ensure Your Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken in an air fryer is a breeze, but getting it just right is key. Here’s how:
- Always preheat the air fryer. This helps make sure the chicken sizzles immediately, creating that lovely golden crisp.
- Use a meat thermometer! Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. It’s the best way to avoid overcooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket. Give the chicken pieces space so they all cook evenly and get that crunchy exterior.
- Shake or flip halfway through cooking. This ensures all sides get crispy and prevents sticking.
By following these tips, you’ll have deliciously cooked chicken every time! Enjoy your meal preparation and feel free to customize to your preference.
How to Make Air Fryer Peanut Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for coating chicken)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced thin
- ¼ cup chopped roasted peanuts
- Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)
- Optional: sliced cucumber and shredded carrots for serving
Time Needed:
This delicious Air Fryer Peanut Chicken will take about 35-40 minutes to prepare. You’ll need 30 minutes for marinating the chicken, plus about 10-12 minutes for cooking in the air fryer. It’s a quick and satisfying dish that doesn’t take too long at all!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Peanut Sauce Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, peanut butter, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk everything together until smooth. This flavorful marinade will coat our chicken, infusing it with that tasty peanut flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the bowl with the marinade. Toss them around to make sure each piece is coated evenly. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinating for 1 hour will enhance the flavors even more!
3. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes. This helps the chicken start cooking immediately, making it nice and crispy.
4. Prepare to Cook:
Lightly coat the air fryer basket with vegetable oil spray or brush the chicken pieces lightly with vegetable oil. This will help them crisp up during cooking. Arrange the marinated chicken in a single layer in the basket, ensuring there’s some space between pieces for even cooking.
5. Cook the Chicken:
Close the air fryer and cook the chicken for 10-12 minutes. About halfway through, shake the basket or turn the chicken pieces over to help them cook evenly. The chicken is ready when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), and it should have a nice, caramelized glaze.
6. Plate and Garnish:
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the air fryer and place it on a serving platter. If you have any remaining peanut sauce, drizzle it over the chicken for extra flavor.
7. Add Finishing Touches:
Garnish your dish with the chopped roasted peanuts, sliced green onions, and fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of color and flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, serve your Air Fryer Peanut Chicken with optional sliced cucumbers and shredded carrots for a refreshing crunch. Dig in and enjoy this lovely, flavorful dish!
This recipe creates tender, juicy chicken pieces with a glossy, nutty glaze—yummy! Perfect for a quick and delicious family meal!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts! Just keep in mind that they may be slightly less juicy, so be careful not to overcook them. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it in the fridge and cook it when you’re ready. This will enhance the flavors even more!
What Should I Serve With Peanut Chicken?
I recommend serving this dish with rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also add a side of steamed or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Enjoy!
