Name: Air Fryer Chicken Wings
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken wings (cut into separate drumettes and flats); ¼ tsp garlic powder; ¼ tsp salt; cooking spray optional cooking spray; 1 tbsp buffalo sauce; 1 tbsp butter (melted); 1 tbsp teriyaki sauce (substitute soy sauce); 2 tbsp honey; 1 tbsp water; ½ tsp sesame seeds (optional, to garnish); 1 tbsp bbq sauce; 2 tbsp honey; 1 tbsp water; 1 tsp cilantro (fresh chopped); ½ cup blue cheese dressing (substitute ranch); 1 carrot carrot (sliced into sticks); 1 celery celery (sliced into sticks)

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There’s something magical about gathering with friends and family over a plate of delicious food, and when it comes to finger foods, Air Fryer Chicken Wings steal the spotlight. Just the other weekend, I found myself reminiscing about my childhood, where weekend sports games meant crispy wings, hot sauce, and tons of napkins. Now, with the help of an air fryer, I can recreate that same crunch and flavor without the guilt of deep frying. As the aroma filled my kitchen, I couldn’t help but feel a nostalgic warmth that made me excited for our family game night.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
35 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Low FODMAP

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Baking Sheet, Skillet, Whisk, Air Fryer, Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon

What Makes This Air Fryer Chicken Wings Special

Convenience and Speed

One of the things I love most about making Air Fryer Chicken Wings is how quickly they come together. Unlike traditional frying, the air fryer circulates hot air around the wings, cooking them evenly and without the mess of oil splatters. In just minutes, you can have crispy wings ready to serve!

Healthier Option

Using an air fryer promotes a healthier way to enjoy your favorite foods. You can achieve that crispy texture with significantly less oil compared to deep frying. This means you can indulge without the heavy feeling afterward, making it a guilt-free treat for gatherings or movie nights.

Flavor Exploration

With Air Fryer Chicken Wings, the flavor possibilities are endless! From classic buffalo to tangy teriyaki, you can customize your wings to suit any palate. I love experimenting with different marinades and sauces, which makes every batch feel like a new adventure.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s game day, a casual dinner, or a party, these wings are always a hit. They’re great as an appetizer or a main dish, and they can easily be served alongside dips and veggies to make a complete meal. Everyone loves wings, and they tend to disappear quickly!

Easy Cleanup

Let’s be honest: cooking can be a hassle, especially when it comes to cleaning up afterward. The air fryer basket is usually non-stick and easy to clean, which saves time and stress after enjoying a delicious meal. Less time scrubbing means more time enjoying the company around you!

Essential Ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Wings

The key to perfect Air Fryer Chicken Wings lies in the quality and combination of ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in elevating the flavor and texture of the wings. With a few essential items, you can create a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love.

1 lb chicken wings – The star of the dish, these wings will soak up all the flavors and become crispy when air fried.
¼ tsp garlic powder – Adds a warm, savory depth to the wings.
¼ tsp salt – Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken.
Cooking spray (optional) – Helps achieve that extra crispy texture without adding too much oil.
1 tbsp buffalo sauce – A classic choice for those who love a spicy kick.
1 tbsp butter (melted) – Adds richness to the wings and helps sauces adhere.
1 tbsp teriyaki sauce (substitute soy sauce) – Offers a sweet and savory flavor profile.
2 tbsp honey – Natural sweetness that balances the spicy and salty flavors.
1 tbsp water – Used to thin out sauces if necessary.
½ tsp sesame seeds (optional, to garnish) – Provides an attractive finish and a subtle crunch.
1 tbsp BBQ sauce – For a smoky flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
1 tsp cilantro (fresh chopped) – Brightens up the dish with a fresh note.
½ cup blue cheese dressing (substitute ranch) – Perfect for dipping and balancing the flavors.
1 carrot (sliced into sticks) – A crunchy side that pairs well with wings.
1 celery (sliced into sticks) – Adds freshness and a nice crunch.

Cooking Method for Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Cooking Air Fryer Chicken Wings is a straightforward process that yields fantastic results. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy crispy, flavorful wings right from your kitchen. Let’s get started!

Prep the air fryer for wings. Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. It’s essential to have your appliance ready to ensure even cooking.
Season the wings. Take your chicken wings and dry them thoroughly with a paper towel. Sprinkle them with garlic powder and salt, ensuring each wing is well coated to enhance the flavor.
Air fry chicken wings. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray if desired. Place the seasoned wings in the basket, skin side up, avoiding overlap. You can stand some wings on their sides if needed. Air fry the wings for 15 minutes.
Flip and continue cooking. After the first 15 minutes, carefully flip the wings using tongs. Cook for another 10 minutes at 375°F.
Increase the temperature. For that ultimate crunch, raise the temperature to 400°F. Flip the wings again and air fry for an additional 8 to 10 minutes. Watch closely until they achieve a beautiful golden brown color.
Check the wings’ doneness. It’s crucial to check the internal temperature using a thermometer. The thickest part of the wing should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If they aren’t ready, continue cooking in 3-minute increments until done.
Make the sauce. While the wings are cooking, you can prepare your sauce of choice. In a large bowl, whisk together your buffalo sauce, teriyaki sauce, or honey BBQ sauce. Feel free to explore different flavor combinations!
Coat the wings. Once the wings are cooked, transfer them to the bowl with the sauce. Toss the wings until they are fully coated. If you want extra sauce, drizzle some on top.
Serve and enjoy. Plate your delicious Air Fryer Chicken Wings and serve with blue cheese dressing, carrots, celery, and a sprinkle of cilantro. Enjoy the burst of flavors!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking in batches: If you’re making a larger amount, consider cooking in batches to ensure even crispiness.
Thicker wings: If you use thicker wings, adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.
Testing for doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to check for perfect doneness, avoiding any guesswork.
Experiment with flavors: Feel free to mix and match sauces to find your favorite flavor combination.

Helpful Notes about Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Cooking should be a joyful experience, and having a few helpful notes can make the process even better. Here are some tips to ensure your Air Fryer Chicken Wings turn out perfect every time.

Storage: Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They stay flavorful and can be reheated in the air fryer.
Freezing: If you have extra wings, consider freezing them. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just reheat in the air fryer when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Pairing: These wings pair wonderfully with a crispy salad, coleslaw, or baked potatoes for a complete meal.
Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to play with your seasonings. You can add cayenne pepper for heat or smoked paprika for a unique flavor twist.
Garnishing: Consider garnishing your wings with fresh herbs or sliced green onions for an added touch of color and flavor.

Perfect Matches for Air Fryer Chicken Wings

When it comes to serving Air Fryer Chicken Wings, you have a world of delicious options to explore. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

Fresh Vegetables: Serve with a side of crunchy carrots and celery for a refreshing contrast.
Salads: A light garden salad or coleslaw complements the richness of the wings beautifully.
Dips: Offer a variety of dips like blue cheese, ranch, or even a spicy sriracha mayo.
Occasions: Perfect for game days, parties, or a cozy night in with family. These wings are always a crowd-pleaser.
Storage tips: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the air fryer to bring back that crispy texture.

FAQ

Yes! The beauty of the air fryer is that it circulates hot air to cook the food. You can achieve crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings without using any oil. Just make sure to season them well to enhance the flavor. However, if you prefer a little extra crispiness, a light spray of cooking oil can help.

The cooking time for Air Fryer Chicken Wings typically ranges from 25 to 35 minutes depending on the size of the wings and your air fryer model. It’s essential to preheat the air fryer and check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F to ensure they are fully cooked.

You can use a variety of sauces for Air Fryer Chicken Wings. Popular choices include buffalo sauce, barbecue sauce, teriyaki sauce, or even a honey garlic glaze. You can mix and match to find your favorite combination!

Store any leftover Air Fryer Chicken Wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for about 5 to 10 minutes at 400°F until they are heated through. This way, they’ll retain that crispy texture we all love.

Conclusion

Making Air Fryer Chicken Wings is a delightful experience that brings back fond memories while creating new ones. With their crispy texture and the ability to customize flavors, they’re perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the deliciousness fresh from your air fryer. It’s an easy way to satisfy your cravings and impress your friends and family!