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Healthy Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken Bites

healthy air fryer teriyaki chicken bites - featured image

Tender chicken bites coated in a homemade teriyaki sauce, cooked to crispy perfection in the air fryer. A quick, healthy, and weight loss-friendly recipe packed with protein and flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) low-sodium soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cut 1 lb (450 g) of skinless chicken breast into 1-inch (2.5 cm) bite-sized pieces. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup (60 ml) low-sodium soy sauce, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil until smooth and fragrant.
  3. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes (do not marinate longer than 1 hour).
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 2 tablespoons water until smooth. Set aside.
  6. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place chicken pieces in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
  7. Pour the remaining marinade into a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook for 1-2 minutes until thickened and glossy. Remove from heat.
  8. Transfer the cooked chicken to a bowl and pour the thickened teriyaki sauce over. Toss gently to coat every bite.
  9. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before marinating to help sauce cling better. Do not overcrowd air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed. The cornstarch slurry thickens the sauce to a glossy finish. Cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Toast sesame seeds before garnishing for extra flavor. Marinate for 15-30 minutes only to avoid mushy texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer, teriyaki chicken, healthy, weight loss, quick recipe, gluten-free option, low fat, protein-rich