Air Fryer Peanut Chicken is the ultimate shortcut for a flavorful, protein-packed dinner that’s ready in no time. Imagine juicy chicken thighs with crispy edges, coated in a creamy, nutty Thai-inspired peanut sauce. This easy air fryer chicken recipe is a game-changer for weeknights or anytime you’re craving something spicy, savory, and satisfying.

I created this recipe when I was desperate for a quick dinner solution after a long day. Traditional peanut chicken can take hours between marinating and stovetop cooking, but this air fryer version shaves tons of time off without sacrificing flavor. Trust me, your air fryer will deliver crispy, golden perfection while you focus on everything else on your to-do list.

Why This Air Fryer Peanut Chicken Is a Game-Changer

Quick marinating: A 30-minute marinade infuses big flavor while you prep sides or catch a break.
Fast cooking: Compared to baking or frying, air fryers cook chicken thighs up to 40% faster.
Crispy without the mess: The air fryer locks in juices and creates crispy edges without deep frying.
Minimal cleanup: Only a resealable bag and air fryer basket to wash. No greasy pans!
Hands-off cooking: Prep the chicken, set the air fryer, and you’re free to multitask.

Equipment You’ll Need for This Air Fryer Peanut Chicken

The main star here is, of course, your air fryer. If you’re new to the world of air frying, this recipe is the perfect excuse to break it in. Here’s what you’ll need:

Air fryer: Any standard air fryer will work for this recipe. I recommend one that’s at least 5-quarts to fit all the chicken thighs in one layer.
Instant-read thermometer: Essential for making sure your chicken reaches the safe cooking temperature of 165°F without overcooking.
Microwave-safe container: For boiling the unused marinade into a safe and flavorful dipping sauce.

Pro Tip: Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup even easier.

Simple Ingredients for Air Fryer Peanut Chicken

Let’s break down the key ingredients you’ll need for this Thai-inspired dish. Most are pantry staples or easy to grab at your local grocery store:

Chicken thighs: Use boneless, skinless thighs for the juiciest results. If you only have chicken breasts on hand, they’ll work too, but adjust the air fryer time slightly to avoid drying them out.
Peanut butter: Creamy peanut butter is the hero here, creating that rich and nutty sauce base. Natural or regular works—use what you have.
Thai sweet chili sauce: Adds a touch of sweetness and spice that balances the peanut sauce perfectly.
Sriracha: Optional, but if you love a spicy kick, don’t skip it. Adjust the heat level to your liking.

Shortcut Tip: Pre-minced ginger and garlic (found in jars in the produce section) save prep time and are just as flavorful.

Air Fryer Peanut Chicken Recipe Details

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Difficulty: Easy

Air Fryer Peanut Chicken Ingredients

2 tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon Sriracha (optional, to taste)
1 lime, zested and juiced
1 teaspoon granulated garlic
1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
Salt to taste
6 skinless, boneless chicken thighs
Cooking spray
2 cups cooked rice
Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, sliced scallions, julienned cucumbers and carrots, chopped peanuts

How to Make Air Fryer Peanut Chicken

In a large resealable plastic bag, combine Thai sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, Sriracha, lime zest, lime juice, granulated garlic, minced ginger, creamy peanut butter, and salt. Mash the bag gently to mix.
Add chicken thighs to the bag, squeeze out excess air, and coat chicken in the marinade. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor).
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 20–22 minutes, turning halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
While the chicken cooks, add 1/2 cup of water to the remaining marinade, mix, and microwave in a container on high until boiling (about 1 minute). Watch closely to prevent overflow.
Serve chicken over rice, drizzle with heated sauce, and garnish with cilantro, scallions, cucumbers, carrots, and peanuts if desired.

Jake’s Tips for the Best Air Fryer Peanut Chicken

Skip the mess: Line your air fryer basket with parchment paper if you’re worried about sticking.
Batch cook: Double the recipe and freeze cooked chicken for future meals.
Make it meal-prep friendly: Cook extra rice and store pre-portioned meals for the week.
Adjust the heat: Love it spicy? Add extra Sriracha or red pepper flakes to the marinade.
Don’t waste the marinade: Boiling it makes a deliciously safe sauce you’ll want to pour on everything.

Easy Air Fryer Peanut Chicken Variations

Swap the chicken: Use chicken tenders, drumsticks, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
No peanuts? Sunflower seed butter is a great allergy-friendly substitute.
Veggie-packed: Toss broccoli or snap peas in the air fryer alongside the chicken for a one-basket meal.
Low-carb: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.

Air Fryer Peanut Chicken FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes! Chicken breasts work well, but you’ll need to reduce the cooking time slightly since they can dry out faster. Start checking at the 15-minute mark.

What’s the best air fryer size for this recipe?

I recommend a 5-quart air fryer to fit all 6 thighs in one layer. Smaller air fryers will require batch cooking.

Can I skip the marinating step?

Technically, yes, but marinating for at least 30 minutes gives the chicken much more flavor. It’s worth the wait!

How do I store leftovers?

Let the chicken cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer for crispy edges.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free. Check your chili sauce too!

Ready to transform your weeknight dinners? This Air Fryer Peanut Chicken is a fail-proof, flavor-packed solution that’s perfect for busy home cooks. What’s your go-to time-saving kitchen hack? Let’s swap tips in the comments below!