raving crispy chicken wings without all the grease of deep-frying? These Air Fryer Chicken Wings are the perfect solution! They’re quick, crispy, and incredibly delicious. The air fryer makes it possible to get perfectly cooked wings with minimal oil and in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re preparing them for game day, a party, or a quick dinner, these wings are sure to be a hit.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
Chicken Wings
- 2 pounds chicken wings (split into flats and drumettes)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (not baking soda)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Sauce
- 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures the wings get extra crispy.
Step 2: Prepare the Wings
Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This helps them get crispy during cooking. In a large bowl, combine the wings, olive oil, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the wings are evenly coated.
Step 3: Arrange and Cook
Arrange the chicken wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not touching each other—this ensures they get crispy all over. Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through cooking, until they are golden brown and crispy. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the size of your wings and your air fryer model.
Step 4: Toss in Sauce (Optional)
While the wings are cooking, you can prepare the optional sauce. In a small bowl, mix hot sauce and melted butter until well combined. Once the wings are done cooking, toss them in the sauce until evenly coated.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the Air Fryer Chicken Wings immediately while hot. Garnish with chopped parsley or sliced green onions if desired.
Cook Notes
- Baking Powder: The baking powder helps the wings get extra crispy by drawing out moisture. Make sure it is aluminum-free to avoid any metallic taste.
- Dry the Wings: Drying the wings thoroughly before seasoning is key to getting them crispy.
- Spacing in Air Fryer: Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. If necessary, cook the wings in batches to allow proper air circulation and crispiness.
Variations
1. Honey Garlic Wings
Toss the wings in a mixture of 1/4 cup honey, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon minced garlic for a sweet and savory flavor.
2. Lemon Pepper Wings
Season the wings with lemon pepper seasoning before cooking. Once done, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for a zesty kick.
3. BBQ Wings
Toss the cooked wings in your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky, sweet flavor that’s perfect for any occasion.
Serving Suggestions
- Dipping Sauces: Serve the wings with ranch, blue cheese, or honey mustard for dipping.
- Side Dishes: Pair with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or French fries for a complete meal.
- Salad: Add a side of coleslaw or a mixed green salad for a fresh contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make These Wings Ahead of Time?
These wings are best enjoyed fresh out of the air fryer when they’re at their crispiest. However, you can reheat them in the air fryer for 5 minutes at 375°F (190°C) to regain some crispiness.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes to bring back some crispiness.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings, but you’ll need to add an extra 5-10 minutes of cooking time. Be sure to pat them dry after thawing to remove any excess moisture.
These Air Fryer Chicken Wings are crispy, quick, and incredibly delicious—perfect for any occasion, from game day to weeknight dinners. With just a few simple ingredients, you can achieve that perfect balance of tender meat and crispy skin without all the mess of deep frying. Give these wings a try, and enjoy them with your favorite sauces and sides!
Did you make this recipe? Share your favorite seasoning or dipping sauce in the comments below, and let us know how they turned out!