Hey y’all! Are you ready to transform your chicken wings into a delightfully crispy masterpiece without the extra grease? Our Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings recipe is perfect for game day, family gatherings, or a cozy night in. With just the right amount of spice and crunch, these wings will have you licking your fingers clean. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for a last-minute meal.
- Healthier option: Less oil compared to traditional frying, yet still irresistibly crispy.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
- Versatile: Perfect for parties, snacks, or a hearty meal.
- No messy cleanup: Simple and hassle-free cooking method.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken wings, tips removed and wings cut into flats and drumettes
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Hot sauce or BBQ sauce for serving
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Wings
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for extra crispiness.
Step 2: Season the Wings
In a large bowl, combine baking powder, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Toss the wings in the mixture until evenly coated.
Step 3: Air Fry the Wings
Arrange the wings in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
Notes
- Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket for even cooking. Learn more about air fryer benefits.
- For extra large wings, increase cooking time by 5 minutes and check for doneness.
Variations
- Buffalo Wings: Toss in buffalo sauce after cooking.
- Asian-Style Wings: Coat with a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and sesame seeds.
- Lemon Pepper Wings: Add lemon zest and pepper to the seasoning mix.
Required Equipment
- Air fryer
- Large bowl
- Tongs
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes for a quick refresh.
Suggested Pairings
Serve with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Pro Tips
- Ensure wings are completely dry before seasoning for maximum crispness. Here’s why drying matters.
- Experiment with different spice blends to discover your favorite flavor profile.
- For a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen chicken wings? Yes, but thaw them thoroughly and pat dry before seasoning.
- How do I know when the wings are done? Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Can I double the recipe? Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer.