Discover the secret to making the crispiest, most tender chicken wings with your air fryer! This easy-to-follow recipe ensures perfectly cooked wings every time—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside. With minimal oil and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect healthy alternative to deep frying. Whether you’re making them for game day or a quick weeknight dinner, these air fryer chicken wings are sure to satisfy your cravings. Try them today for a deliciously guilt-free treat!
Yields: 4-6 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20-25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings (about 12-18 wings), separated at the joint (wingette and drumette) and tips discarded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- Your favorite dipping sauces (ranch, blue cheese, BBQ, hot sauce, etc.)
Equipment:
- Large bowl
- Paper towels
- Air fryer
Step-by-Step Instructions with Pictures:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings
- Pat the chicken wings thoroughly dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
Step 2: Season the Chicken Wings
- In a large bowl, toss the dried chicken wings with olive oil. Make sure all the wings are lightly coated.
- Add the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika (if using), and cayenne pepper (if using) to the bowl.
- Toss the wings thoroughly to ensure they are evenly coated with the seasonings.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer (Optional but Recommended)
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes. This can help the wings cook more evenly and crisp up better.
Step 4: Arrange the Chicken Wings in the Air Fryer
- Place the seasoned chicken wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this will steam the wings instead of crisping them. You may need to cook the wings in batches.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken Wings
- Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through (around the 10-12 minute mark). The exact cooking time will depend on the size of your wings and your air fryer model.
Step 6: Check for Doneness
- The chicken wings are done when they are golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the wing, avoiding the bone.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
- Once cooked through, remove the crispy air fryer chicken wings from the basket and place them on a serving platter.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces. Enjoy your delicious and crispy air fryer chicken wings!
Tips for Extra-Crispy Wings:
- Baking Powder: For even crispier skin, you can add 1 teaspoon of baking powder (aluminum-free) to the dry seasoning mix.
- Higher Initial Temperature: Some people prefer to start at a lower temperature (around 375°F/190°C) for the first part of cooking to ensure the inside is cooked through, then increase the heat to 400°F (200°C) for the last 5-10 minutes to crisp the skin.
- Don’t Overcrowd: This is the most important tip for crispy wings. Cook in batches if necessary.
Variations:
- Buffalo Wings: Toss the cooked wings in your favorite buffalo sauce.
- BBQ Wings: Toss the cooked wings in your favorite BBQ sauce.
- Honey Garlic Wings: Whisk together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of ginger. Toss the cooked wings in this sauce.
- Lemon Pepper Wings: Add lemon pepper seasoning to the dry rub.
Enjoy experimenting and finding your favorite air fryer chicken wing flavor!