Air frying chicken thighs ensures a juicy interior and crispy exterior, creating a delightful texture. Combining this with the bold, spicy flavors of gochujang paste and the rich complexity of Zindrew Crunchy Garlic Chili Oil results in a delicious dish. Here’s a detailed recipe for making Gochujang Chili Oil Chicken Thighs using your air fryer.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs Chicken Thighs, skinless and boneless
• 3.5 oz Gochujang Paste
• 3-4 tbsp Hot Water
• 2 tbsp Honey
• Black Pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp Zindrew's Garlic Chili Oil (OG or X Batch)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the gochujang paste, hot water, honey, Zindrew Crunchy Garlic Chili Oil, and black pepper.
   • Mix until smooth and well-blended.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
   • Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl or a resealable plastic bag.
   • Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated.
   • Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor infusion.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   • Set your air fryer to 390°F and preheat for about 5 minutes.
4. Cook the Chicken:
   • Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap.
   • Cook for 10 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even cooking.
   • Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F to confirm doneness.
5. Serve:
   • Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and allow them to rest for a few minutes.
   • Serve hot, optionally garnished with additional black pepper or a drizzle of Zindrew for added flavor.

• Marinating Time: Although 30 minutes is adequate, marinating for up to 2 hours will enhance the flavors significantly.
• Air Fryer Capacity: Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure the chicken cooks evenly.
• Flavor Adjustments: Feel free to tweak the amount of honey and gochujang to suit your preferred level of sweetness and spiciness.

Why Use Zindrew's Garlic Chili Oil?

Zindrew's garlic chili oil is a crucial component in this recipe, providing an extra layer of complexity to the gochujang marinade. Its rich, garlicky heat complements the savory and spicy notes of the gochujang, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the chicken thighs. Whether you choose the OG or X Batch, Zindrew Crunchy Garlic Chili Oil elevates the dish, making it a memorable meal.

Using an air fryer makes this recipe quick and convenient, while the marinade ensures each bite is packed with flavor. Enjoy these Gochujang Chili Oil Chicken Thighs as a main course, paired with rice or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Additional Suggestions:

• Serving Ideas: We used butter lettuce leaves and some extra Zindrew on top to eat these, but you can pair with rice, or any grain for a delicious meal. 
• Storage Tips: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave before serving.
• Alternative Ingredients: For a different flavor profile, try substituting maple syrup or agave nectar for honey. You can also add a splash of soy sauce or rice vinegar to the marinade for extra depth.
• Cooking Variations: If you prefer, you can grill the marinated chicken thighs on a barbecue or bake them in the oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.

Final Thoughts

This recipe is designed to be straightforward and easy to follow, ensuring you get the best results with minimal effort. The combination of gochujang and Zindrew Crunchy Garlic Chili Oil provides a robust flavor that transforms simple chicken thighs into a gourmet meal. The air fryer method not only speeds up the cooking process but also ensures a healthier dish with less oil. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests with a flavorful dish, these Gochujang Chili Oil Chicken Thighs are sure to satisfy. Enjoy experimenting with the marinade to suit your taste, and don’t forget to share this delicious recipe with friends and family who appreciate bold, spicy flavors.

STAY SPICY,

Zindrew

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