Go Back

Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Bowls - Fast, Flavorful, and Satisfying

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken: 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into 1-inch pieces
  • Oil: 1 tablespoon neutral oil (avocado or canola)
  • Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons, for light coating
  • Salt and pepper: 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
  • Honey: 1/3 cup
  • Soy sauce: 1/4 cup low-sodium
  • Rice vinegar: 1 tablespoon (or apple cider vinegar)
  • Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon
  • Ginger: 1 teaspoon fresh grated (or 1/2 teaspoon ground)
  • Red pepper flakes: 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon, to taste
  • Cornstarch slurry: 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening sauce)
  • Rice: 4 cups cooked jasmine or brown rice
  • Veggies: 2 cups steamed broccoli florets, 1 cup shredded carrots, 1 sliced cucumber
  • Garnishes: Sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, lime wedges (optional)

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken dry and cut into bite-size pieces. Toss with 1 tablespoon oil, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, salt, and pepper until lightly coated.
  2. Preheat the air fryer: Set to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes. A hot basket helps with browning and crisping.
  3. Air fry in batches if needed: Arrange chicken in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway. Pieces should be golden with an internal temp of 165°F (74°C). Repeat with remaining chicken.
  4. Make the sauce: While the chicken cooks, combine honey, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
  5. Thicken the sauce: Stir the cornstarch slurry, then pour it into the bubbling sauce. Simmer 1–2 minutes until glossy and slightly thick. If too thick, add a splash of water.
  6. Toss the chicken: Transfer the hot chicken to a large bowl. Pour over enough sauce to coat well and toss gently until every piece shines.
  7. Prep the bowls: Add a warm layer of rice to each bowl. Top with honey garlic chicken, steamed broccoli, carrots, and cucumber.
  8. Finish with garnish: Sprinkle sliced green onion and sesame seeds. Add a squeeze of lime for brightness.
  9. Serve immediately: Enjoy while the chicken is crisp and the sauce is sticky.