Easy Air Fryer Chicken Wings
If you are looking for a simple, crispy wing recipe without the hassle of deep frying, these Air Fryer Chicken Wings are exactly what you need. By utilizing a basic pantry seasoning blend and a hot air fryer, this method produces a golden, flavorful exterior and a juicy interior. It is a straightforward approach that focuses on getting the best texture by properly drying and seasoning the chicken before cooking.
Why This Recipe Works
- Short cooking time.
- Simple pantry seasonings like smoked paprika and garlic powder.
- Beginner-friendly method.
- Crispy texture without deep frying.
Easy Air Fryer Chicken Wings
4
servings10
minutes21
minutes36
minutesThese easy Air Fryer Chicken Wings are tossed in a flavorful seasoning blend and air-fried until perfectly crispy.
Ingredients
2 pounds chicken wings (flats and drumettes)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon brown sugar
Cooking spray
Directions
- Preheat the air fryer to 390 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Add the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and brown sugar to a small bowl and stir until well blended.
- Place the chicken wings in a large bowl and pat them completely dry with a paper towel.
- Pour the oil and seasoning mixture over the chicken wings and toss until they are completely coated.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken wings in the preheated air fryer in a single layer.
- Cook for 9 minutes.
- Open the air fryer, flip the chicken wings, and cook for an additional 9 to 12 minutes for extra crispiness.
- Verify that the thickest part reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit before serving.
- Remove the wings from the air fryer, let them cool, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Patting the wings completely dry is an essential step to remove excess moisture so the skin gets super crispy. Cooking for the full extra 3 minutes at the end helps achieve an even crispier finish.
Why This Technique Works
Patting the wings completely dry with a paper towel removes excess surface moisture, which allows the skin to roast and crisp up rather than steaming in the air fryer. Tossing the wings in oil and seasonings before placing them in the basket ensures an even flavor and crisp coating.
Air Fryer Tips
Always arrange the chicken wings in a single layer so the hot air can circulate properly around each piece. Flipping the wings halfway through the cooking time promotes an even, golden crunch on both sides.
How to Know When They Are Done
The wings should look crispy and golden on the outside. Always use a meat thermometer to verify that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit before serving.