Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Air fryer chicken wings come out perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside—all without deep frying. Whether you're serving them for game day, dinner, or a party appetizer, these wings cook fast and deliver restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy Without the Oil

You’ll get that classic deep-fried crunch without the mess or added fat.

Fast Cooking Time

Wings cook in under 25 minutes—no need to preheat your oven.

Great for Sauces or Dry Rubs

Serve them classic buffalo-style or dry-rubbed with your favorite seasoning blend.

Crowd-Pleaser

Perfect for parties, football nights, or easy dinners. Everyone loves wings.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken wings (split at the joint, tips removed)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: buffalo sauce, BBQ sauce, or ranch for dipping

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and preheat for 3–5 minutes.

Step 2: Season the Wings

• Pat wings dry with paper towels

• In a large bowl, toss wings with oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated

Step 3: Air Fry the Chicken Wings

• Arrange wings in a single layer in the basket

• Cook at 380°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through

• Increase temperature to 400°F and cook for an additional 5 minutes for extra crispiness

• Wings are done when golden brown and internal temp reaches 165°F

Step 4: Toss in Sauce (Optional)

• Immediately toss hot wings in your favorite sauce like buffalo, BBQ, or honey garlic

• Serve with celery sticks and ranch or blue cheese dressing

Pro Tips for Best Results

Dry the Wings Thoroughly

The drier the skin before cooking, the crispier they’ll get.

Don’t Overcrowd the Basket

Air needs to circulate. Cook in batches if necessary for even crisping.

Flip Halfway for Even Browning

This helps render the fat evenly and crisps up both sides.

Use a Meat Thermometer

Ensure wings reach at least 165°F internally for safe doneness.

Serving Ideas for Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Classic Pairings

• Dips: Ranch, blue cheese, or garlic aioli

• Sides: Air fryer fries, potato wedges, or mac and cheese

• Veggies: Celery, carrots, or a fresh garden salad

Sauce Options

• Buffalo sauce

• Teriyaki glaze

• Lemon pepper butter

• Honey BBQ

• Garlic parmesan

Storage & Reheating Instructions

How to Store Leftovers

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

How to Reheat

• Air fry at 350°F for 5 minutes, flipping halfway

• Avoid microwaving—it softens the skin

Can You Freeze Cooked Wings?

Yes—freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Reheat in air fryer until hot and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Frozen Wings?

Yes. Add 5–7 minutes to total cook time and ensure wings are fully cooked through.

Can I Skip the Oil?

You can, but a small amount helps crisp the skin and adhere the seasoning.

How Do I Make Them Extra Crispy?

Add baking powder (not soda) to the seasoning mix. It helps dry out the skin.

How Many Wings Can I Cook at Once?

Depends on the size of your air fryer. Avoid stacking. Cook in batches for best texture.

Crispy and juicy air fryer chicken wings are easy to make and full of flavor. Cook in under 25 minutes and toss in your favorite sauce or seasoning.