Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Craving a crispy, flavorful snack that’s quick and easy? Air fryer chicken wings are the perfect solution.

Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and tossed in a tangy buffalo sauce, these wings will become your go-to snack or meal in no time.

Air frying ensures a lighter, healthier version of this classic dish without sacrificing flavor or crunch.

Ingredients List

To create the perfect crispy chicken wings in an air fryer, you’ll need the following ingredients to ensure that crispy texture and bold flavor.

Chicken Wings Ingredients:

• 2 pounds chicken wings – Choose fresh or thawed wings for the best results.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – Adds savory depth to the seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – A must-have for any great wing recipe.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder – This is key for that crispy, golden skin.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon pepper – Adds a touch of spice.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika – For a slight smokiness and color.

Easy Buffalo Sauce Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup Frank’s hot sauce – The perfect base for your buffalo sauce.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter – For richness and to smooth out the sauce.
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds a little tanginess and depth.
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder – For an extra boost of garlic flavor.

Required Kitchen Tools

When making these crispy air fryer chicken wings, having the right tools will help you achieve the perfect outcome. Here are the essentials you will need:

1. Air Fryer: The key tool for this recipe. Make sure it’s preheated and ready to go.
2. Large Mixing Bowl: For tossing your wings with the seasoning and ensuring even coverage.
3. Cooking Spray: Non-stick cooking spray will keep your air fryer rack clean and prevent the wings from sticking.
4. Basting Brush (Optional): If you want to ensure an even coat of buffalo sauce, a basting brush is helpful for applying the sauce after cooking.
5. Tongs or a Slotted Spoon: For tossing the wings in the sauce and serving them without making a mess.

Directions

Preparing the Wings

Before cooking your wings, let’s get them ready by seasoning and coating them properly to achieve that crispiness. Follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the wings cook evenly and get that crispy exterior.
2. Season the Wings:
   In a large mixing bowl, toss the chicken wings with the following seasonings: onion powder, garlic powder, baking powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Make sure each wing is evenly coated for the best flavor and texture. The baking powder is essential for achieving that golden, crispy skin.

Cooking the Wings

Once your wings are seasoned, it’s time to cook them to crispy perfection.

3. Prepare the Air Fryer Basket:
   Lightly grease the air fryer basket or rack with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. This step is crucial to ensure your wings come out crispy and don’t get stuck to the basket.
4. Arrange the Wings:
   Place the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If your air fryer is small, you may need to cook the wings in two batches. Overcrowding the basket will result in uneven cooking, so it’s important to leave space between the wings.
5. Air Fry the Wings:
   Cook the wings for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. The wings should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. Depending on the size of your wings and your air fryer model, you may need to adjust the time slightly.

Making the Buffalo Sauce

While your wings are cooking, it’s time to make the easy buffalo sauce that will take these wings to the next level. This tangy and buttery sauce complements the crispy wings perfectly.

Preparing the Buffalo Sauce:

1. Combine the Ingredients:
   In a small saucepan, add Frank’s hot sauce, unsalted butter, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Stir to combine.
2. Heat the Sauce:
   Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the butter has melted and the sauce is smooth. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to let it boil, as you want to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.
3. Adjust the Flavor:
   Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you like your buffalo sauce spicier, add a little more hot sauce. For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of hot sauce and add a little more butter.

Tossing and Serving the Wings

Now that your wings are perfectly crispy and your buffalo sauce is ready, it’s time to bring everything together for the final, flavorful touch!

Tossing the Wings in Sauce:

1. Coat the Wings:
   Place the cooked chicken wings into a large mixing bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the wings, making sure they are generously coated. Toss the wings gently with tongs or a spoon to evenly coat them in the sauce.
2. Serve Immediately:
   Once the wings are coated, transfer them to a serving plate and serve them immediately while they’re hot and crispy. These wings are perfect for a game-day snack, dinner, or a flavorful appetizer.

Suggested Sides and Dips:

To enhance the meal, you can serve your crispy air fryer chicken wings with the following:

• Ranch Dressing: A classic dip that pairs perfectly with the spicy buffalo sauce.
• Blue Cheese Dressing: For those who prefer a tangier, richer dip.
• Celery Sticks: A refreshing and crunchy side that complements the spiciness of the wings.

Conclusion

Air fryer chicken wings are the perfect combination of crispy, juicy, and flavorful. The air fryer gives you the golden crunch you crave while keeping the process simple and quick.

With a tangy buffalo sauce that perfectly complements the crispy texture of the wings, these will be a hit at your next gathering or as a satisfying meal.