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Spicy Sesame Chicken Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 79 reviews

A flavorful Spicy Sesame Chicken recipe featuring tender boneless chicken thighs marinated in a savory blend of sesame oil, oyster sauce, honey, and chili oil, then air fried to juicy perfection. This easy-to-make dish combines a perfect balance of heat and umami, garnished with fresh green onions for an extra burst of freshness.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 8 boneless chicken thighs (skin-on or skinless)
  • 2 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 2 tbsp sesame oil
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 stalks green onions (white and green parts separated; green part for garnish)
  • 2 tbsp sambal or chili oil (Momofuku Chili Crisp recommended)

Instructions

  1. Prep the marinade: Mince the garlic and finely chop the green onions, separating the white and green parts. The white portions will go into the marinade while the green parts will be used for garnishing later.
  2. Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) to warm up while you prepare the chicken and marinade.
  3. Trim the chicken thighs: Remove any excess fat or unwanted bits from the boneless chicken thighs to ensure even cooking.
  4. Mix the marinade: In a bowl, combine oyster sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, low-sodium soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, the white parts of green onion, and sambal or chili oil. Stir well to create a balanced spicy and umami-rich marinade.
  5. Marinate the chicken: Toss the trimmed chicken thighs in the marinade until evenly coated, allowing the flavors to infuse if time permits.
  6. Prepare the air fryer basket: Line your air fryer tray or basket with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
  7. Arrange the chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs skin side up (if skin-on) on the parchment-lined tray, spaced evenly.
  8. Air fry the chicken: Cook at 375°F for 20 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  9. Garnish and serve: Remove the cooked chicken, garnish with the reserved green parts of the green onions, and serve hot.

Notes

  • Using skin-on chicken thighs gives a crispier texture, but skinless works fine too.
  • Check chicken temperature with a meat thermometer for food safety, ensuring it reaches at least 165°F (74°C).
  • You can adjust the level of spiciness by varying the amount of sambal or chili oil.
  • Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for more intense flavor.
  • Replacing low-sodium soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos makes this recipe gluten-free.

Keywords: Spicy Sesame Chicken, Air Fryer Chicken, Asian Chicken Recipe, Sesame Oil Chicken, Easy Chicken Thighs, Momofuku Chili Crisp, Quick Dinner

Find it online: https://spiceupwithsophie.com/spicy-sesame-chicken-recipe/