Introduction
Air fryers have revolutionized home cooking, making it easier than ever to prepare delicious meals with less oil. One of the most versatile proteins you can use in your air fryer is chicken. With its ability to absorb flavors, chicken is perfect for Asian inspired dishes. In this article, we’ll explore several Asian inspired chicken recipes for air fryer family meals that are not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor.
Why Choose Asian Inspired Chicken Recipes?
Asian cuisine is known for its bold flavors and unique combinations of ingredients. From savory soy sauce to zesty ginger, these recipes bring an array of tastes to your dinner table. Additionally, cooking chicken in the air fryer results in a crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy inside. This cooking method is healthier than traditional frying, making it a great choice for family meals.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and black pepper.
- Add chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
- Remove chicken from the marinade and toss with cornstarch until evenly coated.
- Place chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10 minutes.
- Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 10 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.
More Asian Inspired Chicken Recipes
While the teriyaki chicken recipe is a family favorite, there are numerous other Asian inspired chicken recipes that can be made in your air fryer. Here are a few more to consider:
Honey Garlic Chicken
This recipe combines sweet and savory flavors to create a delectable dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, garlic, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and black pepper.
- Add chicken pieces and coat them well in the marinade. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Remove chicken from the marinade, shaking off excess, and toss with cornstarch.
- Arrange chicken in the air fryer basket and cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Once cooked, garnish with green onions before serving.
Spicy Szechuan Chicken
For those who enjoy a little heat, this spicy Szechuan chicken recipe will surely satisfy your cravings.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 33 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, cut into strips
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Szechuan sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine soy sauce, Szechuan sauce, sesame oil, chili garlic sauce, and sugar.
- Add chicken strips to the marinade and let them soak for at least 15 minutes.
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
- Remove chicken from the marinade and coat with cornstarch.
- Place in the air fryer and cook for 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Once cooked, garnish with sesame seeds and serve hot.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken
To achieve the best results when cooking Asian inspired chicken recipes in the air fryer, consider the following tips:
1. **Marinate for Flavor**: Allow your chicken to marinate for at least 15-30 minutes to ensure maximum flavor absorption.
2. **Don’t Overcrowd**: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the air fryer can lead to uneven cooking and less crispiness.
3. **Use a Meat Thermometer**: To avoid undercooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. **Experiment with Sauces**: Feel free to modify the sauces and spices to suit your family’s taste preferences. Asian cuisine is all about balance and experimentation.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs in these recipes. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly based on the thickness of the chicken pieces.
How do I store leftover chicken?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore its crispiness.
Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Absolutely! Marinated chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking.
What sides pair well with Asian chicken dishes?
Consider serving your chicken with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad to complement the flavors of the Asian inspired recipes.
Conclusion
Asian inspired chicken recipes for air fryer family meals are not only quick and easy to prepare but also packed with flavors that everyone will love. From teriyaki to spicy Szechuan, these dishes offer a delightful variety that can bring excitement to your dinner table. So grab your air fryer and start experimenting with these delicious recipes today! Your family is sure to ask for seconds.
