Air fryer chicken wings are the ultimate game-changer for crispy, juicy wings without the guilt of deep frying. Whether you’re planning a party, a game night, or just craving something delicious, these wings come together with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Stick around — you’re about to discover the easiest way to make wings that taste like they’re straight from a restaurant kitchen!
| Servings: | 4 |
| Prep Time: | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 15 minutes |
| Total Time: | 25 minutes |
| Serving Size: | 1 plate |
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Paper towels
- Measuring spoons
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit. I always like to let it run for 3 to 5 minutes before I add anything in—it helps get that beautiful crisp on the chicken from the start.
- Step 2: Pat the chicken wings completely dry using paper towels. This step is key. Removing surface moisture is what gives you maximum crispiness in the air fryer without any added flour or breading.
- Step 3: Place the wings in a large mixing bowl and drizzle with the olive oil. Toss until the wings are lightly and evenly coated. The oil helps the seasonings stick and aids in browning.
- Step 4: In a small dish, mix together the garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne. The cayenne gives just a whisper of heat, but you can leave it out or add more depending on your spice preference.
- Step 5: Sprinkle the seasoning blend over the wings and toss well until each wing is evenly coated in that flavorful mix. Don’t be shy about getting in there with your hands—it makes it easier to ensure every bite is seasoned.
- Step 6: Arrange the wings in a single layer inside your air fryer basket. If your air fryer is on the smaller side, you may need to cook in two batches. Overcrowding will steam the wings instead of crisping them.
- Step 7: Air fry at 380 degrees Fahrenheit for 12 minutes. Then flip the wings using tongs and air fry for another 12 to 13 minutes until they are golden brown with crackly skin and the internal temp hits 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Step 8: If you’re like me and really love that crunch, add 2 to 3 extra minutes at the end for ultra crispy skin.
- Step 9: Remove the wings from the basket and let them rest for just a couple of minutes. It helps the juices settle and the texture stay perfect when you serve.
- Step 10: Serve hot with your preferred dipping sauce—ranch is my go-to, but they also shine with honey mustard or a zingy homemade buffalo sauce.
Nutrition per serving
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 3g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Sugar | 0g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sodium | 580mg |
For extra flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan and do not skip the lemon zest. Leftovers keep well for 2 days in the fridge.
Description
Crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside—these air fryer chicken wings are everything you love about the classic game-day snack without any of the deep fryer mess. Imagine biting into a golden, crackly wing that gives way to flavorful, seasoned meat—savory, satisfying, and just the right amount of indulgent. Cooked in the air fryer, each bite delivers a perfectly crisp exterior that rivals your favorite bar wings.
The aroma of garlic, smoked paprika, and just a hint of heat fills your kitchen as the wings sizzle and turn golden in the air fryer. It is the kind of smell that makes everyone wander in from other rooms, asking when dinner is ready. These wings are just as perfect for a Friday night dinner as they are for a tailgate party or backyard cookout. Serve them with creamy ranch dressing, tangy blue cheese, or a side of celery sticks, and you have an instant crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These air fryer chicken wings are incredibly easy to prepare with minimal cleanup and no need to heat up a full oven. The air fryer does all the work, cutting down on oil while still delivering that crave-worthy crunch. If you love bold flavor and crispy textures but want a healthier twist, this is the recipe for you.
The recipe is totally customizable. You can use your favorite dry rub or toss the wings in a sauce after cooking—like classic buffalo, honey garlic, or barbecue. With less oil and fewer calories than traditional fried wings, this is a guilt-free way to enjoy one of America’s favorite comfort foods.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serve your air fryer chicken wings immediately while they are hot and crispy. Pair them with ranch or blue cheese dressing, fresh carrot and celery sticks, or toss them in your favorite wing sauce.
Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 to 6 minutes to restore crispness. To freeze, let the wings cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 to 12 minutes.
Course, Cuisine
Appetizer, American
Servings, Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Serving Size
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Serving Size: 6 to 8 wings
FAQ
Can I marinate the wings instead of using dry seasoning?
Yes, you can use a marinade if you prefer. Just be sure to pat the wings dry again before air frying to ensure they crisp up nicely instead of steaming.
What cut of chicken works best for this recipe?
Split chicken wings with the drumette and wingette separated cook the most evenly and are perfect for this style of preparation.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, just cook in batches so you don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. The key is keeping the wings in a single layer for that perfect crunch.
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Air Fryer Chicken Wings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to help them get super crispy.
- Place the wings in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
- In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Sprinkle the spice mix over the wings and toss until the wings are well coated.
- Arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Air fry at 380 degrees Fahrenheit for 12 minutes, then flip the wings using tongs.
- Continue air frying for another 12 to 13 minutes until the wings are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- For extra crispiness, air fry an additional 2 to 3 minutes.
- Remove, let rest for a couple of minutes, then serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce.
