Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings

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Extra Crispy, No Deep Frying.

These crispy air fryer chicken wings are everything you love about classic wings — ultra-crispy skin, juicy inside, and bold flavor — without the mess of deep frying. Perfect for game day, family dinners, or an easy weeknight treat, this air fryer recipe delivers restaurant-style wings in under 30 minutes. With simple seasonings and a foolproof method, you’ll get that irresistible crunch every single time. Whether you toss them in Buffalo sauce or keep them classic and savory, these wings are guaranteed to disappear fast!

⏱️ Time Breakdown

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20–22 minutes
  • Total Time: 25–27 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings

📝 Ingredients

  • 2 pounds chicken wings (split into flats and drumettes, tips removed)
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder (NOT baking soda)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (for heat)
  • Cooking spray

Optional Buffalo Sauce:

  • ½ cup hot sauce
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon honey (optional)

✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

  • Air fryer
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Paper towels
  • Tongs
  • Measuring spoons
  • Small saucepan (if making sauce)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Pat wings completely dry.
    Use paper towels to remove as much moisture as possible. This is the key to crispy skin! 🧻
  2. Season the wings.
    In a large bowl, toss wings with baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne until evenly coated.
  3. Preheat air fryer.
    Set to 380°F (193°C) for 3–5 minutes.
  4. Arrange in basket.
    Place wings in a single layer. Do not overcrowd — cook in batches if needed.
  5. Cook first round.
    Air fry for 18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  6. Increase heat for crispiness.
    Raise temperature to 400°F (200°C) and cook an additional 3–4 minutes until skin is golden brown and crispy 🔥
  7. Sauce (optional).
    Warm hot sauce and butter together in a saucepan. Toss hot wings in sauce until glossy and coated.
  8. Serve immediately.
    Enjoy with ranch or blue cheese and celery sticks 🥕✨

💡 Pro Tips

  • Extra crispy hack: Let seasoned wings sit uncovered in the fridge for 1–2 hours before cooking.
  • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days.
  • Reheat: Air fry at 375°F for 4–5 minutes to restore crispiness.
  • Dry rub option: Skip sauce and add extra smoked paprika and garlic powder.

🔄 Variations

  • Honey garlic glaze
  • Lemon pepper seasoning
  • BBQ sauce toss
  • Garlic Parmesan butter

❓ FAQ

Why use baking powder?
It draws moisture from the skin, helping create that crispy texture.

Can I use frozen wings?
Yes, but thaw and pat dry for best crispiness.

How do I know they’re done?
Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

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