If you love crispy, juicy chicken wings but want to skip the deep fryer, cooking them in an air fryer is a game-changer. Air fryer chicken wings come out perfectly crisp on the outside and tender inside, with far less mess and oil. Whether you’re making them for game day, a quick snack, or dinner, this method is easy, fast, and delicious. Here’s everything you need to know to master cooking chicken wings in an air fryer.
Why Cook Chicken Wings in an Air Fryer?
– Super crispy skin without deep frying
– Juicy, tender meat inside
– Less oil and fewer calories than traditional frying
– Faster cooking time than oven baking
– Easy cleanup and no preheating required on many models
– Perfect for small or large batches
Air fryer wings have become a favorite because they deliver that coveted crunch with minimal effort and healthier results.
What You’ll Need
– Chicken wings (drums and flats, separated if whole)
– Olive oil or vegetable oil (just a little)
– Seasonings: salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, or your favorite wing rub
– Optional: baking powder (helps make skin extra crispy)
– Your favorite wing sauce or dip (Buffalo, BBQ, Ranch, Blue Cheese, etc.)
Step-by-Step: How to Cook Chicken Wings in an Air Fryer
1. Prepare the Wings
Pat the chicken wings dry thoroughly with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is key to getting crispy skin. If frozen, thaw them overnight in the fridge before cooking.
2. Season the Wings
In a large bowl, toss the wings with a small amount of oil and your chosen seasonings. For extra crispiness, add a bit of baking powder along with salt and pepper.
3. Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket
Place the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding or overlapping to ensure even cooking and crisping. If needed, cook in batches.
4. Cook at Moderate Temperature
Preheat your air fryer to around 380°F (193°C). Cook the wings for about 15-20 minutes, flipping them every 5-10 minutes to brown evenly.
5. Increase Heat for Extra Crispiness
After the initial cooking, increase the temperature to 400°F (204°C) and cook for an additional 5-8 minutes. This step helps to achieve that perfect crispy skin.
6. Check Doneness
Ensure the internal temperature of the wings reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Use a meat thermometer if possible.
7. Toss in Sauce and Serve
Remove the wings from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. Toss them in your favorite wing sauce or serve plain with dips on the side.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Wings
– Don’t wash raw chicken: Washing can spread bacteria; pat dry instead.
– Pat dry thoroughly: This is the secret to crispy skin and helps seasonings stick.
– Don’t overcrowd the basket: Wings need space to crisp up properly.
– Flip halfway: Turning the wings ensures even cooking and browning.
– Use baking powder: A small amount helps dry out the skin for extra crunch.
– Cook in batches if necessary: Better to cook in two rounds than overcrowd.
– Reheat in the air fryer: To keep leftovers crispy, reheat at 360°F for about 4 minutes.
– Freeze cooked wings: Cool completely before freezing; thaw overnight before reheating.
Flavor Variations to Try
– Classic Buffalo with hot sauce and butter
– Honey BBQ for a sweet and smoky twist
– Lemon pepper seasoning for a zesty kick
– Cajun or Szechuan peppercorn dry rubs for bold spice
– Garlic Parmesan with fresh herbs and cheese
Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices and sauces to customize your wings.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Chicken Wings
– Celery and carrot sticks with ranch or blue cheese dip
– Corn on the cob or a fresh wedge salad
– French fries or sweet potato fries
– Coleslaw or a simple green salad
These sides complement the wings perfectly for a satisfying meal or party platter.
Cooking chicken wings in an air fryer is quick, easy, and yields irresistibly crispy and juicy results every time. With simple prep and just a few ingredients, you can enjoy restaurant-quality wings at home without the mess or guilt of deep frying. Give it a try and you’ll never go back!