Sticky Air-Fried Bourbon Chicken

Sticky Air-Fried Bourbon Chicken Skewers bring together juicy marinated chicken and a sticky sweet bourbon glaze for finger-licking goodness. This recipe makes an irresistible appetizer or main that is fast to prep and serves up plenty of wow factor straight from your air fryer.

The first time I air-fried these for game night, they disappeared so quickly I barely got a skewer myself. Now they are my go-to for impressing friends with minimal effort.

What You’ll Need in Your Kitchen

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Choose thighs for juicier results or breasts for a leaner version
• Soy sauce: Essential for savory depth Use a high-quality one to avoid excess saltiness
• Olive oil: Helps keep the chicken moist during air frying
• Garlic powder and fresh garlic: Both deepen the flavor profile opt for fresh whenever possible
• Smoked paprika: Adds a hint of smoky richness Spanish smoked paprika works wonders
• Black pepper: Freshly ground lifts the marinade
• Bourbon whiskey: The star of the glaze use a good mid-range bottle you would not mind sipping
• Brown sugar and honey: Maple syrup also works for sticky sweetness without being cloying
• Ketchup: Brings a hint of tang and balances the glaze
• Fresh ginger: Use real ginger and grate it finely for zing
• Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar: Brightens the sauce and balances sweetness
• Chili flakes: Optional but adds a mild kick if you like heat
• Bamboo skewers: Soak to prevent burning in the air fryer
• Fresh scallions for garnish: Bright freshness on top
• Sesame seeds for garnish: Optional but adds a crunchy finish

How to Make It Like a Pro

Marinate the Chicken:

Toss chicken cubes with soy sauce olive oil garlic powder smoked paprika and black pepper in a bowl making sure every piece is well coated Cover and chill for at least thirty minutes so the flavors sink in up to four hours for deeper taste

Make the Sticky Glaze:

Simmer bourbon soy sauce brown sugar honey ketchup garlic ginger vinegar and chili flakes in a small saucepan over medium heat Stir steadily as the sauce thickens and turns glossy after about seven minutes Take it off the heat and let it cool slightly for easy brushing

Thread the Skewers:

Slide marinated chicken chunks onto soaked bamboo skewers leaving small spaces between each piece for even air frying Too tight means uneven cooking so keep them a little loose

Cook in the Air Fryer:

Set your air fryer to three seventy five degrees Fahrenheit Place the skewers in a single layer and cook for twelve minutes Flip at the halfway mark for golden charring on all sides The chicken should be tender and fully cooked through

Glaze to Finish:

Brush each skewer with the sticky bourbon glaze then pop them back in for another two minutes This step carves that irresistible caramelized layer right onto the chicken

Serve It Up:

Transfer finished skewers onto a wooden board for that rustic look Drizzle over extra glaze and sprinkle with scallions and sesame seeds Serve hot and get ready for sticky fingers

Save

I love using fresh ginger in the glaze because it brightens everything As kids my siblings and I would compete to see who could fit the most chicken on their skewer—now my own family does the same around our kitchen island

Keep It Fresh and Delicious

For the best flavor use your chicken soon after buying Look for meat that is moist with no off smell The glaze tastes even better made a day ahead so feel free to prep it early Just store it tightly sealed in the fridge and give it a quick warm-up before brushing onto the chicken

Genius Ingredient Swaps

If you are out of bourbon try dark rum or apple juice for a zero alcohol version Honey and brown sugar can be swapped for maple syrup or agave if that is what you have on hand Chicken thighs give the juiciest results but shrimp or tofu also work beautifully with this simple marinade and glaze

Plating Like a Chef

Serve the skewers on a wooden cutting board or platter for a casual rustic feel Scatter fresh scallions in big bold pieces and sprinkle sesame seeds for crunch Place a small bowl of extra glaze for dipping on the side If you have edible flowers or microgreens tuck a few around the skewers for a pop of color

The Story Behind the Bite

The inspiration came from eating sticky bourbon chicken at a street fair while the aroma of smoky meats and sweet sauce filled the air My first home version used the grill but moving to the air fryer made this dish possible year round Now every time we make it my family is reminded of that sun soaked adventure and laughter in the park

Recipe FAQs

→ How should I marinate the chicken for best flavor?

Mix the chicken with soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper, then marinate for 30 minutes to 4 hours in the fridge to maximize tenderness and taste.

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, both chicken thighs and breasts work well. Thighs add more juiciness, while breasts remain lean and tender when properly marinated and not overcooked.

→ Is there a substitute for bourbon in the glaze?

Apple juice or extra soy sauce can replace bourbon for a non-alcoholic option, though the flavor profile changes slightly.

→ How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning?

Soak bamboo skewers in water for at least 20 minutes before threading the chicken. This helps prevent burning during air-frying.

→ What should I serve with these skewers?

Serve alongside steamed rice, fresh slaw, or an Asian-style salad for a complete meal. They also work well as appetizer bites at parties.

→ How do I get a caramelized glaze finish?

Brush the glaze on after the initial cooking, then return the skewers to the air fryer for 1-2 minutes to caramelize strongly and develop a sticky exterior.