Air Fryer Chicken Wings – Crispy, Juicy & Absolutely Irresistible

Craving crispy chicken wings without the mess and extra calories of deep-frying? Look no further than these Air Fryer Chicken Wings. Perfectly golden on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with flavor, this recipe is a game-changer for wing lovers. Whether it’s game day, a family dinner, or a weekend snack, these wings are sure to disappear fast.

Why Make Chicken Wings in the Air Fryer?

The air fryer is the secret to achieving restaurant-quality wings at home. Instead of submerging wings in hot oil, the air fryer uses circulating hot air to crisp up the skin while keeping the meat tender. That means less grease, fewer calories, and easier cleanup—without sacrificing crunch or flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 lbs chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Optional sauces for tossing:

Buffalo sauce
Honey garlic glaze
BBQ sauce
Teriyaki glaze

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the wings – Pat chicken wings dry with paper towels. This helps achieve crispier skin.
Season – Toss wings in olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne. Coat evenly.
Preheat air fryer – Set air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
Cook – Arrange wings in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Crisp them up – Increase temperature to 400°F (204°C) and cook an additional 5 minutes for extra-crispy skin.
Sauce & serve – Toss wings in your favorite sauce or enjoy them as-is with ranch or blue cheese dip.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Wings

Don’t overcrowd – Cook in batches if needed to ensure even crisping.
Dry thoroughly – The drier the wings before seasoning, the crispier the skin will be.
Customize the flavor – Try lemon pepper, Cajun seasoning, or a dry rub for variety.
Use parchment liners – Makes cleanup much easier without affecting crispiness.

Serving Ideas

These wings are versatile and crowd-pleasing. Serve them with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and dipping sauces for a classic pairing. They also make an excellent appetizer for parties, a quick dinner with fries, or a protein-packed snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air fryer chicken wings are healthier than deep-fried wings, but they taste just as indulgent. They’re quick, easy, and customizable, meaning you can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes without breaking a sweat.

Final Thoughts

Crispy, flavorful, and effortless, these Air Fryer Chicken Wings will become your go-to recipe whenever the craving strikes. Perfect for any occasion and endlessly customizable, they’re proof that the air fryer truly is a kitchen superstar.