Name: Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs Chicken wings; 1 tbsp Baking powder; to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; ¼ cup Butter; 3 cloves Garlic (minced); ½ cup Grated parmesan cheese (freshly grated or pre-grated); ½ teaspoon Garlic powder (or more if desired); ½ teaspoon Red pepper flakes (or more if desired); ¼ teaspoon Salt; ¼ teaspoon Black pepper; 2 tbsp Freshly chopped parsley leaves; ½ cup Hot sauce; 1 tbsp Honey (or brown sugar); 1 cup BBQ sauce; ¼ cup Honey; 2 tbsp Melted butter; 2 tsps Sriracha (or hot sauce optional)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

When I think of game days and family gatherings, I can’t help but crave Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings. There’s something about the crunchy exterior combined with succulent meat that takes me back to childhood memories of backyard barbecues and lively celebrations. I remember the first time I made these wings; they were such a hit that I couldn’t believe how simple they were! Using an air fryer not only gives them that mouthwatering crispiness but also eliminates the guilt of deep frying. Whether it’s for a casual weeknight dinner or a festive occasion, Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings never disappoint. It’s that perfect recipe that brings everyone together, sharing their favorite flavors and sauces. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about making these delicious wings!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
28 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
24 g

Tools Used:
Saucepan, Skillet, Grater, Wooden Spoon, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Air Fryer, Frying Pan

Why Try This Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Flavor Explosion

One of the reasons I absolutely love Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings is the ability to customize flavors. You can easily switch between different sauces like buffalo, honey BBQ, or garlic parmesan. The mere thought of the spicy buffalo sauce hitting that crispy skin makes my mouth water!

Quick Cooking Time

The air fryer significantly cuts down cooking time! Unlike conventional frying, where you must wait for the oil to heat, the air fryer is ready to go in just a few minutes. You can enjoy your wings in a fraction of the time, making it ideal for busy days.

Healthier Option

Using an air fryer means you can achieve that same crispy texture with much less oil. This healthier alternative allows you to enjoy your favorite flavors without compromising your nutrition goals. Plus, no messy oil splatters to clean up afterward!

Perfect for Any Occasion

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings are ideal for any gathering. Whether it’s a sports night, holiday celebrations, or just a cozy family dinner, they fit perfectly into any menu. They’re crowd-pleasers, and you’re guaranteed to have guests coming back for more!

Family-Friendly

Kids absolutely love wings! Making them at home means you can control the ingredients, ensuring that everyone’s dietary preferences are considered. Plus, you can make them to suit different tastes, from mild to hot, appealing to all age groups.

Easy Cleanup

One of the best things about preparing Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings is how easy it is to clean up afterward. Most air fryer baskets are non-stick and dishwasher safe, so you can enjoy your meal without worrying about the aftermath.

Ingredients Overview for Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings

The ingredients for Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings are simple, yet they blend together to create flavor-packed wings that everyone will love. Each component has a role: from the crunchy coating provided by the baking powder to the savory notes from garlic and butter. Let’s break down these key players:

2 lbs Chicken wings – The star of the dish, providing a juicy bite that everyone craves.
1 tbsp Baking powder – Helps achieve that perfect crispy texture on the outside.
Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor.
¼ cup Butter – Adds richness and a delicious base for sauces.
3 cloves Garlic, minced – Infuses the wings with aromatic flavor.
½ cup Grated parmesan cheese – Provides a cheesy element that pairs perfectly with garlic.
½ teaspoon each Garlic powder, red pepper flakes – Adds an extra layer of flavor and spice if desired.
2 tbsp Freshly chopped parsley leaves – For a fresh finish and vibrant color.
½ cup Hot sauce – Essential for those who love that fiery kick!
1 tbsp Honey or brown sugar – Balances the heat with a hint of sweetness.
1 cup BBQ sauce – For a tangy, sweet option everyone loves!
2 tsp Sriracha or hot sauce (optional) – For those who want an extra spicy kick.

Instructions for Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Making Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings is a fun and straightforward process. Let’s walk through the steps together to ensure your wings turn out perfectly crispy and delicious.

Prep: Start by removing the tips of the chicken wings and splitting them at the joint. This ensures they cook evenly. Pat the wings dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture, which helps achieve that crispy skin.
Toss with Baking Powder: In a large bowl, add the chicken wings, baking powder, a dash of salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the wings are well coated. This step is crucial for that irresistible crunch!
Air Fry: Transfer the wings to your air fryer basket and set the temperature to 375°F. Cook them for about 25 minutes, remembering to shake the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The goal is to have them golden brown and crispy.
Increase Temperature: After the initial cook, raise the temperature to 420°F or the highest setting. Bake the wings for an additional 5 minutes or until they reach that perfect crispy texture. You’ll know they’re ready when the skin is a beautiful golden brown!
Prepare Sauces: While the wings are cooking, you can prepare various sauces. For the garlic parmesan, cook garlic in butter until fragrant, then turn off the heat and pour it into a large mixing bowl.
Toss in Sauce: Once the wings are done, remove them from the air fryer and immediately toss them into the sauce of your choice. The heat from the wings will help absorb those flavors beautifully.
Serve Hot: Serve your Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings hot, with sides of blue cheese or ranch dressing, and enjoy with fresh celery and carrots. Dig in!

Things Worth Knowing

Pat Dry for Crispiness: Always ensure your wings are dry before seasoning. The moisture can prevent them from achieving that desirable crunch.
Avoid Overcrowding: Cook wings in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than frying, which results in less crispy wings.
Temperature is Key: Don’t skip the temperature increase at the end. This step is crucial for that final crispy texture.
Experiment with Sauces: Don’t be afraid to mix it up! Try different sauces and flavor combinations to find your favorite.

Make It Your Own

The beauty of Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings lies in their versatility. Here are some tips to customize your wings according to your taste!

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the air fryer for the best results.
Freezing: You can freeze cooked wings for up to a month. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Pairing: Serve with crispy fries or a fresh salad to create a well-rounded meal.
Cooking in Batches: If you have a lot of wings, cook them in batches to ensure they all cook evenly and properly.
Try Different Flavors: Experiment with different spices or sauces to suit your personal preferences!

What to Serve Alongside Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Pairing Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some suggestions:

Crispy French Fries: A classic side that goes perfectly with wings. The crunch complements the juicy meat beautifully.
Coleslaw: The creaminess of coleslaw balances the spiciness of the wings, making for a refreshing accompaniment.
Salads: A light salad can provide a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the wings. Consider a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
Vegetable Sticks: Serve with carrot and celery sticks for a crunchy, healthy option. Pairing with a dip is optional but recommended!
Rice or Quinoa: For a more filling meal, serve alongside rice or quinoa, which can soak up any extra sauce and help balance the dish.
Game Day Essentials: If it’s game day, think about adding nachos or sliders to your menu for a full spread.

FAQ

To get your wings extra crispy, ensure they are thoroughly dried before seasoning. Pat them with a paper towel to remove any moisture. Using baking powder is key; it helps create that desired crunch. Additionally, raising the temperature at the end of cooking gives them that final crispiness. Experiment with cooking times to find what works best for your air fryer!

Absolutely! You can prepare the wings ahead of time by seasoning and coating them, then storing them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. Just remember to bring them to room temperature before air frying for even cooking. If you have leftover wings, they can be reheated in the air fryer for the best results!

The beauty of Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings lies in their versatility! You can use a variety of sauces, such as buffalo sauce for heat, honey BBQ for sweetness, or a garlic parmesan sauce for a savory twist. Feel free to mix and match sauces based on your personal preference or serve a selection for guests to choose from!

Conclusion

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings are not just a dish; they’re an experience filled with flavor and fun! They bring warmth to gatherings and smiles to faces, making them a must-have for any occasion. I encourage you to try making them tonight, and I promise they will become a go-to recipe in your household. Enjoy the deliciousness!