Can I use frozen chicken in the air fryer?

While it's possible to cook frozen chicken directly in the air fryer, for this recipe, it's better to thaw the chicken first. The marinade needs to penetrate the meat for optimal flavor, which can't happen effectively with frozen chicken. If you must use frozen, thaw completely first, then proceed with marinating.

Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lime juice is strongly recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch. If using bottled, you might want to increase the amount slightly as it tends to be less intense than fresh. Also consider adding extra lime zest to boost the citrus flavor.

How long should I air fry honey lime chicken thighs?

Honey lime chicken thighs air fryer cooking time is typically 15-18 minutes at 380°F, flipping halfway through. Thighs are more forgiving than breasts due to their higher fat content, so they stay juicier even if slightly overcooked. Always check that internal temperature reaches 165°F.

What about air fryer honey lime chicken breasts?

Air fryer honey lime chicken breasts require 12-15 minutes at 380°F, flipping halfway through. Breasts cook faster than thighs but can dry out more easily, so monitoring temperature is crucial. If your breasts are particularly thick, consider butterflying them for more even cooking.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally dairy-free as written. Just ensure your chosen sides and serving suggestions align with your dietary needs.

Can I make this honey lime chicken air fryer recipe gluten-free?

The honey lime chicken air fryer recipe can be made gluten-free by substituting tamari or coconut aminos for the soy sauce. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this honey lime chicken air fryer dish perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure not to overcrowd your air fryer basket. You may need to cook in multiple batches to ensure proper air circulation and even cooking.

What if I don't have an air fryer?

While this recipe is optimized for air fryers, you can adapt it for oven cooking. Bake at 425°F for 18-25 minutes, depending on the cut of chicken, until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Best Honey Lime Chicken Air Fryer Recipe (20 Minutes!)

Description

This honey lime chicken air fryer recipe creates perfectly juicy, sweet and tangy chicken in just 20 minutes! The honey caramelizes beautifully while the lime adds bright, citrusy flavor. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners with simple pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

1/3 cup honey
1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2–3 limes)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon lime zest
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 pounds chicken (breasts, thighs, or tenders)
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for crispiness)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh lime wedges for serving
Chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, fresh lime juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, lime zest, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes if using.
Prepare the chicken: Pat chicken completely dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper. For extra crispiness, dust lightly with cornstarch.
Marinate: Place chicken in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 4 hours in refrigerator.
Preheat air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3-5 minutes.
Cook the chicken: Remove chicken from marinade, reserving excess. Place chicken in air fryer basket in single layer, not overcrowding. Cook for 12-18 minutes depending on cut (see notes), flipping halfway through.
Baste and finish: At halfway point, flip chicken and brush with reserved marinade. Continue cooking until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Rest and serve: Let chicken rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh lime wedges and chopped cilantro.

Notes

Cooking Times by Cut:
• Chicken breasts: 12-15 minutes
• Chicken thighs: 15-18 minutes
• Chicken tenders: 8-12 minutes

Pro Tips:
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket for best results
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure 165°F internal temperature
• Marinate longer for deeper flavor (up to 24 hours)
• Let chicken rest before slicing to retain juices

Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days. Reheat in air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes.

Prep Time: 15
Cook Time: 15
Category: Main Course
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1
Calories: 285
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 380mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: honey lime chicken, air fryer chicken, easy weeknight dinner, sweet and tangy chicken, quick chicken recipe, healthy air fryer recipe, meal prep chicken