There’s nothing quite like biting into a perfectly crispy chicken wing, and thanks to the air fryer, you can achieve that irresistible crunch without the excess oil or deep frying. These Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings are quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making them the ultimate game-day snack or weeknight treat. With just a handful of simple seasonings, they turn out golden brown, crispy on the outside, and juicy on the inside—ready to be tossed in your favorite sauce or enjoyed as is.
Whether you’re a fan of classic Buffalo wings, smoky BBQ, or a sticky honey garlic glaze, this recipe serves as the perfect base for any flavor craving. Plus, with a cooking time of just 20-25 minutes**, you’ll have a delicious, no-fuss meal on the table in no time. Grab your air fryer, season your wings, and get ready to enjoy the crunchiest homemade wings ever—without the guilt!
Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
2 lbs chicken wings, split into flats and drums
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional sauce for coating: Buffalo sauce, BBQ sauce, or honey garlic
Instructions:
1. Pat the chicken wings dry thoroughly with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
2. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
4. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
5. Place the wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they’re not overcrowded. You may need to cook in batches depending on your air fryer size.
6. Cook for 10 minutes at 380°F.
7. Flip the wings and continue cooking for another 8-10 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
8. Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer – it should read 165°F (74°C).
9. If desired, toss the wings in your preferred sauce while hot.
Coating Sauces
Buffalo Sauce
A classic, tangy, and spicy sauce that’s perfect for wing lovers.
Ingredients:
½ cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon white vinegar
½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine all the ingredients.
2. Stir until the butter is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
3. Remove from heat and toss your crispy wings in the sauce immediately for the best coating.
BBQ Sauce
A sweet, smoky, and slightly tangy sauce that pairs perfectly with crispy wings.
Ingredients:
1 cup ketchup
¼ cup apple cider vinegar
¼ cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
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Instructions:
1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine all the ingredients.
2. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
4. Remove from heat and toss with wings, or brush onto them for a sticky glaze.
Honey Garlic Sauce
A perfect balance of sweet and savory with a rich garlic kick.
Ingredients:
¼ cup honey
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in honey and soy sauce, and bring to a simmer.
4. If a thicker sauce is desired, add the cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce thickens.
5. Remove from heat and toss with wings for a sticky, flavorful coating.
Cooking Tips:
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; leave space between wings for proper air circulation
For extra crispy wings, spray with a light coating of oil halfway through cooking
Let wings rest for 5 minutes before serving
If using frozen wings, thaw completely before cooking
Clean your air fryer basket between batches to prevent smoking
Optional Serving Suggestions:
Serve with celery and carrot sticks
Include blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley
Keep warm in a 170°F oven if cooking multiple batches
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness.
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