Use a fork to poke holes in the chicken thighs. This allows the marinade to penetrate deeper and ensures even cooking.
In a bowl, combine onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, five spice powder, brown sugar, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, vegetable oil, sesame oil, cooking wine, and honey. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Optionally, add a few drops of red food coloring for a vibrant color.
Place the chicken thighs in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the sauce over the chicken, making sure it is evenly coated. Allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, overnight for maximum flavor.
Preheat your air fryer to 370°F (185°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil to prevent sticking. Place the marinated chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between them for air circulation. Air fry the chicken thighs at 370°F (185°C) for 15 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they cook evenly on both sides.
After 15 minutes, carefully remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer. Brush both sides of the chicken with the remaining marinade or glaze. Return the chicken thighs to the air fryer basket and continue to air fry for an additional 2 minutes at 370°F (185°C) to allow the glaze to caramelize and create a delicious crust.
To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a food thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Once the chicken thighs are cooked through and golden brown, remove them from the air fryer. Allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve your crispy air fryer chicken thighs hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired. Enjoy your flavorful and juicy chicken dish!