Air Fryer Chicken Wings Recipe: Crispy & Juicy in Minutes

If you’re craving crispy, golden chicken wings but want to skip the frying mess, this Air Fryer Chicken Wings recipe is exactly what you need. With minimal prep and cook time, these wings come out perfectly crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside. A quick toss in olive oil and seasonings creates the ideal flavor, and the air fryer ensures a healthier version of your favorite comfort food. Perfect for game day, gatherings, or a weeknight treat!

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Ingredients

• Cooking spray for air fryer basket
• 1 pound chicken wings (split into flats and drummettes)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for serving
• Ranch dressing for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F. Once heated, spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
3. Toss the wings with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Coat them evenly.
4. Place the seasoned chicken wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they’re not touching each other for even cooking.
5. Cook the wings at 380°F for 10 minutes. Then, increase the temperature to 400°F and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes or until they are golden and crispy.
6. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with ranch dressing on the side for dipping, if desired.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Perfection: The air fryer creates a crispy, golden skin without the need for excess oil, giving you all the crunch you love.
• Quick & Easy: With only a few ingredients and less than 30 minutes of cook time, these chicken wings are a fast and satisfying dish.
• Healthier Option: Air frying reduces the need for oil, making these wings a lighter, healthier version of the traditional deep-fried kind.
• Versatile: Perfect for a casual dinner, game day snacks, or party appetizers. The simple seasoning allows you to customize with your favorite sauces or spices.

Tips

• Dry Wings for Extra Crispiness: Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels before seasoning to remove any excess moisture. This helps achieve maximum crispiness.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For the best results, ensure the wings are not overcrowded in the air fryer. This allows the hot air to circulate properly and cook the wings evenly.
• Check for Doneness: Air fryer models may vary, so check the wings after 15 minutes and cook for additional time if necessary, until the skin is crispy and golden.

Variations and Substitutions

• Sauces: After cooking, toss the wings in your favorite sauce, such as buffalo sauce, BBQ sauce, or teriyaki for added flavor.
• Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices. Add cayenne pepper for heat, onion powder for a savory kick, or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
• Frozen Wings: You can also cook frozen wings in the air fryer. Just increase the cook time by 5-10 minutes, and check for crispiness.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen chicken wings?
Yes! You can cook frozen wings in the air fryer. Increase the cooking time by about 5-10 minutes until they’re golden and crispy.

Q: How do I make the wings extra crispy?
Pat the wings dry before seasoning, and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. This allows for better air circulation and crispier skin.

Q: How long do I cook chicken wings in the air fryer?
Generally, chicken wings take about 15-18 minutes in total at 380°F to 400°F, depending on the size and thickness of the wings.

Serving

Serve your air fryer chicken wings hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or buffalo sauce. Add a side of veggies like carrot and celery sticks to balance out the meal. For extra flavor, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.

Suggestions

• Pairing: Pair these crispy wings with a fresh side salad, sweet potato fries, or your favorite coleslaw for a complete meal.
• Meal Prep: Make extra wings and store them in an airtight container for easy leftovers. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back the crispiness.
• Custom Flavors: Experiment with different marinades and spice rubs to create your own signature air fryer chicken wings.